After our first stop in Bangkok, we flew to Siem Reap, Cambodia. We stayed at the Golden Temple Residence which is an oasis of tranquility and peace, located just 5 minutes from the town center and only 7 km from the star attraction of the UNESCO world heritage site at Angkor Wat temple and the surrounding temple complex. While here, we were treated to exquisitely prepared Khmer cuisine.
On our first night, we enjoyed a four course traditional Khmer dinner that was probably my most favorite dining experience of the entire Southeast Asian trip. We sat in the open air dining room that overlooks the pool area, where we were treated to an Apsara dance performance.
The first course was a trio of Pomelo Salad with Dry Shrimp, Fresh Spring Roll served with Khmer dressing, and Prawn Tempura served with plum sauce. These first bites were fresh and set the tone for the evening.
Next, we ate a surprisingly comforting Traditional Clear Sour Soup served with Chicken Dumpling and topped with pastry dough. It was a very westernized dish, and even though it was a balmy tropical night, we did not mind slurping down this hot soup.
The main course featured a Khmer style platter with steamed Fish Amok, Country-Style Chicken Curry, Stir Fried Vegetables with Oyster Sauce and steamed rice. Served in banana leaves, each portion was the right size and overall presentation and flavor was magical. I devoured everything on my plate.
For dessert, we were treated to another trio - Khmer Layer Cake, Jack fruit and Coconut, and Pandan leaf Crepes stuffed with caramel and coconut. The dessert was not super sweet, and provided a nice finish to the lovely meal.
Unlike its Thai neighbors, the food in Cambodia was not nearly as spicy. A lot of coconut curries and sauces, and vegetarian influences, as well as noodle soups were prevalent here.
Food: 4.5, Price: 5, Service: 4.5, Ambience: 4.5, Accessibility: 5
