Siem Reap: Evening Food Tour with 10 Local Tastings

Introduction

If you’re curious about Cambodia’s culinary scene beyond the famous Angkor temples, this Evening Food Tour in Siem Reap offers an excellent way to sample local flavors while exploring the city’s vibrant night markets. The tour, rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 from over 140 reviews, promises a mix of cultural insights and appetizing adventures—all for just $35 per person.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines authentic food, local market scenes, and friendly guides who know exactly where to find safe, delicious eats. Plus, the opportunity to taste bugs like tarantulas and crickets adds a daring twist for adventurous eaters. Also, relaxing at a hidden bar with cold beers caps off the evening perfectly.

A small caveat is that this tour is quite active and involves walking and tuk-tuk rides, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a lively pace. If you enjoy trying new foods and local culture, this tour is a fantastic fit for solo travelers, couples, or friends eager for a flavorful night out in Siem Reap.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Cambodian Cuisine: Tastes range from traditional noodle dishes to insect snacks, all explained by knowledgeable guides.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about Khmer cooking techniques, flavors, and local life through guided commentary.
• Market & Shopping: Explore vibrant night markets offering handicrafts, jewelry, and silk scarves.
• Safe & Clean Food: Guides emphasize cleanliness and safety in every eatery visited.
• Unique Insect Tastings: Try tarantulas, crickets, and other bugs—an experience not to miss for the adventurous.
• Relaxing Finish: Wind down at Long’s Bar with refreshing beers and great atmosphere.

Why This Tour Truly Shines

A Well-Structured Itinerary That Maximizes Experience

This tour hits Siem Reap’s best spots for food, shopping, and local culture—all in about four hours. Starting with a hotel pickup, it smoothly transitions through different neighborhoods and markets, allowing you to get a real taste of the city after sunset. The schedule is thoughtfully arranged to avoid tourist traps and focus on authentic local eateries.

The Food Stops and Their Highlights

The first stop at the Lort Chas House is a highlight, where you get to try Cambodian Stir-fried Rice Pin Noodle. Guides explain the cooking process with step-by-step photos and recipe videos, making it a fun, educational experience. One review mentions how engaging and personable guides like Bo-Shan make the experience memorable, adding a friendly, local touch.

Next, you’ll visit the Made in Cambodia Market, which is a perfect break from eating—a chance to browse locally made crafts, jewelry, and silk scarves. This stop isn’t just about souvenirs; it provides insight into Cambodian craftsmanship and supports local artisans.

The culinary journey continues at a local restaurant with fruit, spring rolls, tofu, and snails—delivering a broad taste of Khmer dishes. Then, at Num Banh Chok, you taste the iconic Cambodian noodle dish with chicken curry and the fish soups. Multiple reviewers emphasize how guides like Vandy and Bopha ensure everything is clean, well-cooked, and safe, which is crucial when trying street food in a new country.

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The Night Market and Bug Tasting

From 8:00 pm, the tour heads to the bustling Street 60 Night Market. Here, you get to try bugs and barbecued chicken while sitting comfortably on street mattresses. Many reviewers highlight the guide’s attention to cleanliness and safety—”your guide is very careful to make sure everything you eat is clean and well-cooked.”

Tasting insects like crickets and tarantulas is a signature moment. Some say it’s a “must-try” for the brave, with guides allowing you to pick your bugs from the market stall. It’s an experience that’s both fun and enlightening, offering a peek into Cambodian eating habits that might seem unusual back home but are deeply rooted in local tradition.

Ending with Refreshment at Long’s Bar

The final stop at Long’s Bar provides a relaxed atmosphere to unwind. For about an hour and a half, you can enjoy cold beers—with many reviews mentioning the friendly, laid-back vibe—and reflect on your culinary adventures. The guide’s hospitality shines here, making everyone feel comfortable.

Practical Details

Duration, Pickup, and Transportation

Running for around 4 to 4.5 hours, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics seamless. Transportation is primarily by tuk-tuk, which adds to the fun and keeps the experience authentic. Multiple reviews praise the smooth, efficient transport and the small group size, which fosters a more personal, engaging atmosphere.

Cost and Value

At $35, the tour offers excellent value considering the number of tastings—about ten different foods, plus drinks and market visits. Many reviewers mention that the portions are generous, and guides are attentive to whether guests want more food or drinks. The inclusion of local bugs tasting and beers at a relaxed bar makes it feel like a well-rounded, immersive night.

Guides and Language

Guides like Bopha, Vandy, and Ron are frequently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. They not only explain the dishes but also share stories about Cambodia’s culture and culinary traditions—adding depth to the experience. The tour is offered in English, ensuring clear communication.

What to Bring

Travelers should remember to bring camera, insect repellent, and cash (for any personal purchases). Cameras are discouraged during food tastings to avoid spills, but you’ll want snaps of the markets, the street scenes, and, of course, those bugs.

Accessibility and Restrictions

This tour may not be suitable for people over 331 lbs (150 kg) or those with high blood pressure, due to the active nature and food choices. It’s best suited for adventurous eaters comfortable with walking, tuk-tuks, and new flavors.

What Reviewers Say

Many comments praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides who make the experience feel like a local friend showing you around. For instance, Rory notes how Bopha’s professionalism made the tour feel like “spending time with a friend,” while Dylan mentions the “super engaged” guide who explained every dish and its history.

Food-wise, guests love the diversity of dishes—from spring rolls and fruit to insect snacks. One reviewer shared how they tried fried frog and crickets and felt it was worth the adventurous spirit. The cleanliness and safety of the food is consistently highlighted, with guides making sure everything is well-prepared.

Highlights from Multiple Reviews:

• “Guides like Bo-Shan, Bopha, and Vandy are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive.”
• “The food portions are generous, and the variety offers a great taste of Khmer cuisine.”
• “The tuk-tuk rides add a fun, authentic touch to the evening.”
• “Trying insects like tarantulas and crickets is a memorable highlight.”
• “The relaxed bar scene at Long’s Bar is the perfect way to wind down.”

The Sum Up

This Siem Reap Evening Food Tour offers a compelling blend of culinary discovery, cultural insight, and local vibe. It’s not just about eating—it’s about understanding Khmer cuisine, supporting local artisans, and embracing the lively spirit of Siem Reap at night. The guides’ professionalism and the emphasis on safety make it approachable for most travelers, even those trying street food for the first time.

If you’re a food enthusiast, curious about Cambodian culture, or just looking for a fun, relaxed evening activity, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially valuable for those who want an authentic experience without the touristy feel. And for the adventurous at heart, tasting bugs adds a fun, unique twist that makes the night unforgettable.

In short, this tour is a great value for the price, delivering an experience full of flavor, stories, and memories—and all led by guides who make it feel like a night out with friends.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 4 to 4.5 hours, starting around 5:00 pm or check available times.

What kind of food will I taste?
You’ll sample Khmer dishes such as stir-fried rice pin noodles, spring rolls, fruit, tofu, snails, and famous Khmer noodle soup, along with insect snacks like crickets and tarantulas.

Are the food and drinks safe?
Guides emphasize cleanliness and safety, ensuring all food is well-cooked and safe for consumption.

Can I try insects?
Yes, you’ll have the chance to pick your bugs from local markets and enjoy them with beer—an experience many find both fun and memorable.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, insect repellent, and cash for any additional personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best for travelers comfortable with walking, tuk-tuks, and trying new foods. It’s not suitable for those over 150 kg or with high blood pressure.

What’s the atmosphere like?
Relaxed, friendly, and lively. Guides create a welcoming vibe at each stop, with plenty of opportunities for questions and photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby