Buffet Dinner Apsara Show with hotel transfers

When visiting Siem Reap, many travelers seek to enjoy its famed temples and cultural performances. This particular experience combines a buffet dinner with a traditional Apsara dance show, all set in a spacious, open-air or air-conditioned restaurant. For $22 per person, you get about three hours of entertainment, with the added bonus of hotel transfers—a convenience that’s often appreciated after a long day of temple touring.

We particularly like the variety of food offerings, including Khmer staples, Asian dishes, and even Cambodian BBQ, as well as the comfortable large space that makes for a relaxed dining atmosphere. This makes it a good option for those wanting to enjoy both a culinary and artistic taste of Cambodia without breaking the bank.

However, one potential drawback is the mixed quality of the buffet—as some reviews suggest, it can be rather mediocre. Plus, service issues, like the one traveler who struggled to gain entry even after showing confirmation, remind us that your experience might vary.

This tour best suits travelers who want a cost-effective, convenient, and family-friendly way to enjoy Cambodian dance and cuisine. If you’re after a solid show and don’t mind a buffet that’s less gourmet, it could be a good fit. But if you’re looking for top-notch food or seamless service, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

Affordable price for a combined cultural and dining experience
Hotel pickup and drop-off included, adding convenience
A large, comfortable restaurant setting with options for open-air or air-conditioned seating
Shows featuring traditional Khmer dance, offering cultural insight
Food variety with Khmer, Asian, and Western dishes, including Cambodian BBQ
Mixed reviews on quality, especially regarding the buffet’s mediocrity and service issues

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Experience

While in Siem Reap, here are other experiences we've covered

Location and Setting

Situated in the heart of Siem Reap, Amazon Angkor—where the show happens—benefits from its proximity to the major hotels. This makes it easy to include in your evening plans without long transfers. The restaurant itself offers a spacious environment, with seating for over 300 people. You can choose between an open-air garden or a cool, air-conditioned space, depending on your comfort preferences.

The Food and Buffet

For $22, you’re offered a buffet with over 40 dishes—a significant variety by many standards. Besides Khmer specialties, the buffet includes Japanese, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Western dishes. One of the highlights is the Cambodian BBQ and Sukiyaki soups prepared at individual cooking stations, which adds a fun, interactive element.

We love the diversity of options, especially considering this is a dinner for all tastes—whether you’re craving familiar Western fare or local flavors. The buffet’s layout in a well-arranged restaurant allows you to stroll and choose at your leisure, making it easy to try a little of everything.

The Apsara Show

The highlight of this experience is the traditional Khmer dance performance—the Apsara dance, which is a captivating art form with graceful movements and intricate costumes. The performance is included in the price, and it takes place in a setting designed to showcase the dancers beautifully, whether in the open-air or under a roof.

Some reviews praise the quality of the show, with one traveler noting that “food and show were excellent,” and that the restaurant layout was well-suited for the performance, ensuring the audience felt close enough to appreciate the dancers’ movements.

More Great Tours Nearby

Service and Logistics

Hotel transfers are part of the package, which reduces the hassle of finding transportation in Siem Reap. The pickups are shared, typically by tuk-tuk or van, with an English-speaking driver. Arriving at the restaurant, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere—but, as some reviews point out, service can sometimes be less smooth.

One traveler recounted a stressful experience where they were denied entry despite showing confirmation, indicating that administrative errors can happen. This emphasizes the importance of arriving prepared and keeping your reservation details handy.

While in Siem Reap, here are other experiences we've covered

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts about three hours, with start times depending on availability. Booking in advance is recommended, especially if you want to coordinate with other evening activities.

Cost and Value

At $22, this experience offers decent value—especially considering the hotel transfers and included dance show. While the buffet isn’t a gourmet feast, the variety and interactive stations make it a good deal for those wanting to sample Cambodian cuisine without a hefty price tag.

However, the mixed reviews on food quality remind us that this isn’t a fine dining experience, but rather a cultural evening that combines entertainment with a hearty, casual buffet.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for families, group travelers, or budget-conscious visitors who want a fun, accessible evening of cultural entertainment and food. It’s especially good if you value convenience—thanks to hotel pickup—and are happy with a large, lively environment rather than an intimate or upscale setting. For foodies seeking top-tier cuisine, or travelers with specific dietary needs, this might fall short.

Final Thoughts

This buffet dinner with an authentic Apsara dance show offers a practical blend of culture, entertainment, and local flavors in Siem Reap. The large space and inclusive price make it a convenient option for many visitors, especially those on a budget or with limited time.

The variety of food can satisfy different tastes, and the performance provides an engaging glimpse into Cambodia’s traditional arts. On the flip side, service hiccups and mediocre buffet quality are worth noting, so manage your expectations accordingly.

If you’re eager to combine a relaxed dinner with a taste of Khmer culture—and don’t mind a few imperfections—this tour could be just the ticket. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize value and accessibility over gourmet cuisine or high-end service.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers free shared hotel pickup and drop-off by tuk-tuk or van, making it very convenient for travelers staying in Siem Reap.

How long does the experience last?
The total duration is about three hours, including dinner, entertainment, and transfers.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included in the package, so you’ll need to purchase beverages separately if you want them.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the buffet suitable for all diets?
The buffet offers over 40 dishes, but specific dietary options are not detailed. Travelers with special needs might want to inquire directly or prepare accordingly.

What should I expect at the show?
The Apsara dance features traditional Khmer costumes and graceful movements, offering insight into Cambodia’s cultural artistry.

Is this experience good for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and groups, especially those wanting an affordable cultural evening.

Are there any restrictions?
Alcohol and drugs are not allowed, and the experience is not suitable for babies under 1 year.

In sum, this tour offers an accessible way to enjoy Cambodian performing arts and cuisine in a lively, friendly setting—ideal for travelers wanting a straightforward, fun evening without fuss.