The Japanese community has a strong presence in Cambodia, so it’s little wonder there are plenty of Japanese restaurants in Phnom Penh to choose from. Here are some of the best.
Japanese cuisine is so much more than sushi and sashimi – although these are firm favourites. In fact, it’s as diverse as it is delicious and each comes with its own unique flavour and texture.
Popular Japanese food
Sushi: Sushi is a dish of vinegared rice topped with raw fish, seafood or vegetables. It is one of the most well-known Japanese foods, and there are many different types of sushi, such as nigiri sushi, sashimi, and maki sushi.
Tempura: Tempura is a dish of seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep-fried. It is a popular appetiser or snack, and can also be served as a main course.
Ramen: Ramen is a noodle soup that is made with a variety of toppings, such as pork, chicken or vegetables. It is a hearty and filling dish that is popular all over Japan.
Donburi: Donburi is a rice bowl that is topped with a variety of ingredients, such as grilled meat, fish or vegetables. It is a quick and easy meal that is perfect for a busy day.
Yakisoba: Yakisoba is a stir-fried noodle dish that is made with wheat noodles, cabbage, pork and vegetables. It’s a popular street food in Japan and can also be found in many restaurants.
Soba: Soba are thin noodles that are made from buckwheat flour. They are often served in a hot broth, but they can also be eaten cold. Soba is a popular dish in Japan, and it is often eaten as a light meal.
Udon: Udon are thick noodles made from wheat flour. They are often served in a hot broth, but can also be eaten cold. Udon is often eaten as a hearty meal.
Japanese Restaurants in Phnom Penh
Adachi Japanese Restaurant
Adachi Japanese Restaurant is a popular spot for both locals and tourists in Phnom Penh. Famed for its authentic Japanese cuisine, Adachi’s menu features a wide variety of dishes, including sushi, sashimi, tempura, and ramen. The ingredients are all fresh and high-quality, and the dishes are prepared with care. The atmosphere is cosy, casual and relaxed. While the dishes are a bit on the pricey side, the food is worth it. Most dishes range from $10 to $20, with a few more expensive options.
Ninja Japanese Dining & Bar
Ninja Japanese Dining & Bar is another great option for Japanese food in Phnom Penh. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, including sushi, sashimi, rice bowls, tempura and udon noodles, with the chicken katsu curry a must-try. The restaurant has a laidback vibe and is popular with Japanese clientele. Most dishes range from $5 to $15, and there are a few more expensive options.
SaKaNa LaB
SaKaNa LaB has cemented itself as one of the capital’s leading Japanese restaurants, famed for its fantastic sushi and sashimi. The menu also features a variety of small plates, including yakitori, tempura, seafood and grilled items. If you’re hungry, then it also specialises in two sushi extravaganzas. Most dishes range from $3 to $8.
Katanashi
If you’re planning on sampling Katanashi’s food, then it’s advisable to book ahead as the compact eatery is often full – predominantly with Japanese customers, paying testament to the quality of the food. Cheap, cheerful and tasty, Katanashi serves Japanese tapas dishes that span sushi, dumplings, Japanese pizza, fried mackerel and much more.
These are just a handful of the many great Japanese restaurants in Phnom Penh. Whether you’re looking for authentic Japanese cuisine or a more casual dining experience, you are sure to find something to suit your taste.
