I still vividly remember the magical evening in 2019 when my partner and I celebrated our 2nd anniversary at Embassy Khmer Gastronomy in Siem Reap. Nestled in the vibrant heart of this cultural city, Embassy is renowned as one of Cambodia’s most exquisite fine-dining experiences. And let me tell you, the experience was nothing short of extraordinary! ❤️
The Atmosphere: Elegant and Intimate
From the moment we walked in, Embassy Khmer radiated sophistication. The dim lighting, elegant table settings, and warm, welcoming smiles of the staff instantly made us feel special. The restaurant’s interior had a subtle Khmer-inspired décor with modern touches, which created an intimate and serene ambiance. It was perfect for an anniversary dinner – private and romantic, yet unpretentious.
We were greeted by the “Kimsan Twins,” the talented chefs behind the restaurant. Their passion for Khmer cuisine and their dedication to crafting a unique dining experience shone through even before we had tasted a single bite.
The Tasting Menu: A Masterpiece of Khmer Gastronomy
Embassy’s menu was a curated tasting experience – a culinary journey through Cambodia’s heritage. The chefs meticulously prepared every dish, blending traditional ingredients with a touch of modern creativity. Below, I’ve detailed our menu for the night, which felt like a love letter to Khmer cuisine:
Khmer Street Finger Food
Our dining adventure began with Khmer Street Finger Food – a delightful combination of Mushroom Tempura, Chicken Sausage, Rice Cake, and Roasted Chhombok Seed. Each bite transported us to the bustling streets of Cambodia, where these snacks are beloved staples. The tempura’s crispiness paired with the earthy mushroom flavours was divine, while the chicken sausage was rich and perfectly spiced.
Amuse Bouche: Grilled Baby Squid
Next came the Grilled Baby Squid, served with charcoal eggplant. The squid was tender and smoky, while the eggplant added a creamy, slightly charred balance. This tiny dish packed a punch of flavour, setting the tone for the rest of the meal.
Appetizer: Sautéed Chive Leaf & Bean Sprout Salad
The Sautéed Chive Leaf and Bean Sprout Salad was fresh, vibrant, and seasoned to perfection. Tossed with a tangy tamarind dressing, the dish had a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity. The tofu added a subtle texture, making this a perfect starter for the feast ahead.
Soup: Slowly Cooked Pork Ribs
For the soup course, we savoured Slowly Cooked Pork Ribs in a broth flavoured with red Kampot pepper, Tonle Sap lotus root, and fried onion. The ribs melted in our mouths, while the pepper added a gentle kick. This dish felt like comfort in a bowl, reminding me of the soulful essence of home-cooked Khmer food.
Refresher Granite: Roselle Sour Fruit Sorbet
Before diving into the mains, we were treated to a Roselle Sour Fruit Sorbet – a refreshing palate cleanser. Its tangy, fruity flavour woke up our taste buds, preparing us for the next culinary masterpiece.
Main Course: Grilled Takeo River Lobster & Smoky Duck
For the main course, we indulged in two dishes:
- Grilled Takeo River Lobster served on crispy vermicelli with pumpkin purée and garlic sauce. The lobster was succulent, with its natural sweetness enhanced by the creamy pumpkin purée.
- Smoky Duck, infused with the aroma of embassy spices and paired with crispy sweet potato and a pineapple salad. The smoky, tender duck was beautifully balanced by the tropical freshness of the pineapple.
Both dishes were art on a plate, showcasing Cambodia’s unique ingredients and bold flavours.
Dessert: Bay Traeb Sticky Rice
Finally, we ended the meal with Bay Traeb Sticky Rice, cooked in fresh coconut milk and topped with roasted peanuts and sugar palm caramel ice cream. This dessert was pure bliss – the creamy, fragrant coconut paired with the nutty crunch of peanuts and the rich caramel ice cream created a heavenly finish.
Service: Impeccable Attention to Detail
The service at Embassy Khmer was impeccable. The staff’s knowledge of each dish, their attentiveness, and the care they showed made us feel pampered throughout the evening. They even surprised us with a little anniversary treat – a thoughtful gesture that added a personal touch to the celebration.
The Price: Worth Every Penny
Fine dining at Embassy doesn’t come cheap, but it’s worth every penny. Our tasting menu cost around US$50 per person (approximately 200,000 KHR), which, considering the quality and creativity of the dishes, felt like a steal. For a special occasion like our anniversary, it was money well spent.
Final Thoughts
Dining at Embassy Khmer Gastronomy was more than just a meal; it was a celebration of Cambodia’s culinary heritage. From the thoughtfully crafted menu to the warm hospitality, every detail made the evening unforgettable. If you’re in Siem Reap and looking for a dining experience that combines tradition with innovation, Embassy Khmer should be at the top of your list.
To this day, my partner and I reminisce about that magical night. Embassy made our anniversary truly special, and it’s an experience we’ll cherish forever. If you’re planning a visit, make sure to book ahead – this gem is incredibly popular! 🎉
