Best Places to Eat with a Purpose in Siem Reap (Cambodia)

Siem Reap, Cambodia, isn’t just the gateway to the majestic Angkor Wat—it’s a vibrant city bursting with culture, charm, and an impressive food scene. Beyond satisfying your taste buds, many eateries in Siem Reap are making a meaningful impact by supporting local communities, empowering marginalized groups, or championing sustainability.

4 Best Places to Eat in Siem Reap

Here’s your guide to four standout best places to eat in Siem Reap: Haven, New Leaf Cafe, Bao Kandall, and Red Fox Cafe.

Haven: Dine with Heart

⏰ Tuesday – Sunday from 10am-10pm (kitchen closes at 9.30pm)

Nestled in a tranquil garden setting, Haven offers a heartwarming dining experience as mouthwatering as the food. This social enterprise restaurant provides vocational training to underprivileged young adults, equipping them with essential skills for careers in hospitality.

Photo Credit: Have

The menu reflects a global flair, with standout dishes like their zesty Khmer Fish Amok and hearty Western-style burgers. Whether you’re craving traditional Cambodian flavors or familiar comfort food, Haven’s offerings are fresh, flavorful, and lovingly prepared. By dining here, you’re directly contributing to a brighter future for Cambodia’s youth.

Pro tip: Pair a Khmer meal with one of their fresh juices for a refreshing boost.

2. New Leaf Cafe: Eat, Read, Empower

⏰ Sunday – Saturday 7:30am-9:30pm

Photo Credit: Edna Kallon (www.ednaxplores.com)

At New Leaf Cafe, every bite tells a story—quite literally. This cozy spot is a cafe, a place to buy things from local artisans, and bookshop on a mission to give back. A significant portion of its profits is channeled into community development projects, including educational initiatives in Cambodia

Photo Credit: Edna Explores (www.ednaxplores.com)

Their menu celebrates locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss their creamy pumpkin soup or aromatic Khmer curry. Vegetarian and vegan options abound, making it a haven for all diners. As you sip your ethically sourced coffee or indulge in their delectable desserts, you can browse through a curated selection of books for sale, knowing your money is supporting meaningful causes.

Pro tip: Try their signature lime pie—it’s tangy, sweet, and unforgettable.

3. Bao Kandal: Where Creativity Meets Community

⏰ Monday – Saturday 9:30am-9:00pm

Photo Credit: Bao Kandal

Photo Credit: Bao Kandal

Photo Credit: Edna Kallon (www.ednaxplores.com)

If you’re a fan of fusion cuisine, Bao Kandal is a must-visit. Situated along the scenic Siem Reap River, this charming eatery blends Asian and Western flavors into a menu of bao buns, small plates, and hearty mains.

But Bao Kandal isn’t just about culinary creativity—it’s about giving back. The restaurant is deeply rooted in community support and works closely with local farmers to source fresh, sustainable ingredients. Its crispy pork belly bao and mushroom bao are showstoppers, while the duck confit salad adds a refined touch to its offerings.

Pro tip: The pasta dishes are just as good as the baos. .

4. The Little Red Fox Espresso: A Creative Hub with Heart

⏰ Thursday – Tuesday 7:00am-5:00pm

Photo Credit: Edna Kallon (www.ednaxplores.com)

At The Little Red Fox Espresso, coffee meets community. This vibrant cafe isn’t just about great espresso—it’s a hub for creativity and empowerment. The team is upskilled in management and encouraged to express their creativity, while the cafe champions socially and environmentally responsible practices.

With a strong connection to Siem Reap’s cultural scene, including hosting music festivals, The Little Red Fox Espresso is as much about community as it is about coffee. Their menu features delicious breakfasts and expertly brewed coffee that keeps locals and travelers returning for more.

Pro tip: Pair their banana pancakes with a creamy cappuccino for the perfect start to your day.

Why Eating with Purpose Matters in Siem Reap

Siem Reap’s dining scene offers more than great food; it provides an opportunity to make a difference. Restaurants like Haven, New Leaf Cafe, Bao Kandal, and Red Fox Cafe are leading the way, proving that meals can nourish the soul as well as the stomach.

By supporting these socially responsible eateries, you’re not just exploring the flavors of Cambodia—you’re investing in the people and communities that make this country so special.

Ready to explore Siem Reap’s culinary gems? Bookmark this webpage and embark on a journey of taste, purpose, and connection!