Sokkhak River Lounge – Siem Reap, Cambodia
Words: Monica Tindall
Photos: Han Sen Hau
As twilight bathes Siem Reap in a warm glow, Han Sen and I are perched on the rooftop of Sokkhak River Lounge. The gentle scent of exotic flowers mingles with the cool evening air carried in from the charming greenhouse that frames the space. Lush greenery spills over the railings, offering a glimpse of the vibrant riverside scene below. Sipping wine on the comfortable rooftop, we feel connected to yet sheltered from the city’s energy.
Sokkhak River Lounge – Siem Reap
Sokkhak River Lounge isn’t just a rooftop restaurant; it’s a three-story experience. From the cafe on the ground floor to the stylish wine bar on the middle level, it culminates in this gorgeous greenhouse-resembling restaurant. The setting is breathtaking, with an abundance of healthy ferns hanging from the ceiling, glass walls overlooking the river, and golden pagodas catching the last rays of sundown.
While the menu provides a mix of Cambodian and continental cuisine, we’re here for the local flavours. With some helpful recommendations from the staff, we’re ready to dive in.
Wine List
Priorities: wine first. Sokkhak River Lounge has six wines by the glass, three red and three white, all priced at USD 6.50. The full-bodied Winery of Good Hope Unoaked Chardonnay is fantastic with our mains. At the same time, the lighter M-Chapoutier “La Ciboise” Luberon AOP Grenache Blanc and Vermentino blend is a perfect match for our chicken salad starter.
Sokkhak River Lounge Food Menu
The Chicken and Banana Blossom Salad (USD 8.50) sets the tone for the generous portions offered at Sokkhak River Lounge. Easily shared between two or enjoyed as a light main, this dish combines shredded chicken leg meat and refreshing banana blossom, complemented by thinly sliced red onion, snor flower (sponge flower harvested from the countryside near the lake), deep-fried shallots, peanuts, and mixed herbs. A subtle Khmer coconut dressing adds delicious seasoning to the salad without overpowering its delicate profile.
While many boast about their rendition of the national dish Fish Amok (USD 10.50), Sokkhak River Lounge’s version stands out for this well-justified claim. Departing from tradition, the chef opts to lightly pan-fry river catfish instead of poaching it, imparting a deeper flavour profile. Enhanced by the beloved Khmer amok paste with creamy coconut and ‘noni’ leaf—a staple in Cambodian cuisine revered for its purported medicinal properties—it’s a dish that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.
We’ve been hearing about prahok since our arrival in Cambodia. This salted and fermented fish paste is known for its robust smell and taste and is used as a popular seasoning in many traditional dishes. We finally get to try it at Sokkhak River Lounge in chef’s Prahok Ktis (USD 10.50) recipe. This Khmer delicacy includes fermented fish, minced pork, and thinly sliced river fish braised in coconut cream. A wild assortment of lightly blanched and sauteed veggies are found on the side. It’s recommended to eat a little prahok, veggies and rice all in one spoon. You have to try this!
Dessert
A Khmer Delicacy (USD 6.50) of ripe banana wrapped in a sticky rice ball serves as dessert. Shredded young coconut, crushed cashew nuts and coconut sorbet complement the sweet fruit and glutinous rice. We think it’s the perfect portion to share and just the right amount of natural sweetness to conclude on a high note.
Reasons to visit Sokkhak River Lounge, Siem Reap: beautiful location with delicious local recipes; a decent and reasonably priced wine list; kind, humble service; we’d order all the five dishes we ate this evening again in a heartbeat.
Sokkhak River Lounge, Siem Reap
Pokambo Advenue, Along Siem Reap River,
20 metres before Pheah Prom Roath Pagoda Svay Dangkum Commune
Krong Siem Reap 17252, Cambodia
www.sokkhakriverlounge.com
+855 099 210 776
*vegetarian & vegan options
**non-halal***alfresco and air-con dining options
Sokkhak River Lounge Opening Hours
Daily: 10 am – 12 pm
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