The 4 Best Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Phnom Penh
As the plant-based movement continues to gain momentum worldwide, Phnom Penh has embraced the trend with open arms, offering a variety of vegan and vegetarian dining options. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, a vegetarian, or simply someone looking to explore healthier, more sustainable dining choices, Phnom Penh’s culinary scene has something for you.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the five best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the city, where creativity and flavor come together to create unforgettable dining experiences.
Our Vegan/Vegetarian Restaurant Picks in Phnom Penh
1. Bong Bonlai
Located inside YK Art House, Bong Bonlai which translates to “Bro Vegetable” in Khmer is a vibrant vegan restaurant that celebrates the natural beauty of plant-based ingredients. The menu draws inspiration from global flavors, offering hearty soups, fresh wraps, nourishing bowls, and colorful salads.
Each dish is designed to be both satisfying and wholesome, making Bong Bonlai a great choice for those who want healthy food without sacrificing flavor. With its relaxed setting and focus on sustainability, it’s a favorite among locals, travelers, and anyone curious about plant-based dining in Phnom Penh.
Specialty Dishes:
- Rainbow Buddha Bowl: A colorful mix of fresh vegetables, grains, and protein, topped with a delicious tahini dressing.
- Vegan Tacos: Soft tortillas filled with spiced beans, avocado, salsa, and fresh greens.
- Coconut Curry: A creamy, coconut-based curry loaded with vegetables and served with steamed rice.
- Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 07:30 AM – 20:30 PM
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2. Backyard Cafe
For over 10 years, Backyard Café has been a pioneer of healthy eating in Phnom Penh. Now located on Street 240, the café continues to deliver nourishing dishes for a wide range of diets. The menu includes grass-fed meats and fish alongside plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, making it inclusive for mixed groups of diners.
Backyard Café is especially known for its evening sharing plates, organic wines, and wellness-focused offerings like cold-pressed juice cleanses. You can also stock up on house-made wholefoods such as fermented pickles, raw desserts, slow-roasted granola, and healthy snacks to take home. Whether dining in or ordering delivery, Backyard Café remains a go-to for balanced, delicious meals.
Specialty Dishes:
- Green Detox Smoothie Bowl: A revitalizing bowl packed with superfoods like spinach, avocado, and chia seeds, topped with fresh fruit and granola.
- Raw Pad Thai: A refreshing take on the classic dish, made with spiralized zucchini noodles and a tangy peanut sauce.
- Sweet Potato & Lentil Burger: A hearty and satisfying burger, served with a side of sweet potato fries and a crisp salad.
- Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:30 AM – 21.30 PM
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3. Element – Vegetarian / Vegan Restaurant
At Element, cooking is treated like an art form transforming humble ingredients into something sublime. This vegetarian and vegan restaurant near the Russian Market offers a calm, welcoming environment that’s perfect for mindful dining.
The menu highlights fresh, plant-based ingredients with both classic and creative dishes. Popular options include Tom Yam soup and red curry, along with daily specials that keep the experience exciting. The stylish interior reflects Element’s eco-friendly philosophy, while the rooftop lounge provides a cozy space to relax with friends. With attentive staff and a thoughtful approach to sustainability, Element has become a standout in Phnom Penh’s vegetarian dining scene.
Specialty Dishes:
- Khmer Vegan Amok: A plant-based version of the traditional Cambodian dish, made with tofu and vegetables in a rich coconut curry.
- Plant-Based Laksa: A spicy and fragrant noodle soup, filled with vegetables and topped with fresh herbs.
- Mushroom & Tofu Stir-Fry: A savory stir-fry dish with mushrooms, tofu, and a medley of seasonal vegetables, served with steamed rice.
- Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:30 – 13:30 18:00 – 21:30
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4. Sacred Lotus – Vegan – Café
Part café, part hostel, Sacred Lotus is more than just a place to eat it’s a community space dedicated to wellness and conscious living. Located near the Russian Market, it offers a peaceful atmosphere where guests can enjoy delicious vegan food while connecting with like-minded travelers.
The café is praised for its tasteful interior, commitment to environmentalism, and warm, attentive service. The menu features flavorful dishes like Tom Yam soup, red curry, and a variety of nourishing plant-based plates. Guests can also enjoy the rooftop lounge, a perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring Phnom Penh.
Specialty Dishes:
- Vegan Buddha Bowl: A hearty and nutritious bowl filled with quinoa, roasted vegetables, avocado, and a tangy tahini dressing.
- Cashew Cream Pasta: A creamy, dairy-free pasta dish made with a rich cashew cream sauce and topped with fresh herbs.
- Sacred Lotus Smoothie: A refreshing smoothie blend of tropical fruits, coconut water, and chia seeds.
- Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 07.00 AM – 21:00 PM
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Conclusion
Phnom Penh is quickly becoming a hub for plant-based dining, offering options that are as creative as they are delicious. From the community-driven vibes of Sacred Lotus and Bong Bonlai to the wellness-centered Backyard Café and the mindful dining experience at Element, each restaurant brings its own unique approach to vegan and vegetarian cuisine.
Whether you’re a local seeking healthier options or a traveler exploring Cambodia’s capital, these four spots are the best places to enjoy fresh, flavorful, and sustainable plant-based meals.
Kalliyan Chantrea is a Cambodian food blogger who blends her rich cultural heritage with modern culinary trends. Born in Cambodia and raised in the USA, Kalliyan shares her passion for Cambodian cuisine, offering authentic recipes and innovative twists on traditional dishes.
