Siem Reap isn’t just about exploring Angkor Wat — it’s also a fantastic place to learn authentic Khmer cuisine. With vibrant markets, local villages, and passionate cooks, you can learn about Cambodia’s flavors while gaining practical skills. We particularly love the Siem Reap: Khmer Cooking Class at a Local’s Home because it combines home-cooked authenticity with the charm of shopping in local markets. Walking through a bustling market, selecting fresh ingredients, and then preparing dishes like Fish Amok or Tom Yum in a local’s home offers a genuine taste of daily life here. It’s a memorable way to connect with Cambodian culture on a deeper level.
Another fun pick is the Award-Winning Cooking Class Experience with a Professional Teacher — perfect for those who want a structured, informative session with a top instructor. This class’s small-group setting ensures personalized attention, making it ideal whether you’re a novice or a seasoned home cook. If you’re interested in rural life, the Cambodian Village Cooking Class takes you outside the city for a hands-on experience with local chefs, ending with a delicious meal and insights into village traditions. Each of these experiences offers something special, rooted in local authenticity and rich flavors.
Quick Overview
This list showcases diverse cooking experiences in Siem Reap, from market-based classes and home visits to village tours and dessert workshops. Whether you prefer a small-group guided class, a private session, or a family-friendly activity, there’s an option for you. Each tour emphasizes fresh ingredients, local recipes, and culture, often including market visits or village visits for added authenticity. Now, let’s dive into what makes each of these top choices stand out.
1. Siem Reap: Khmer Cooking Class at a Local’s Home
At number 1, this class offers a truly immersive experience inside a local’s home. You’ll start by exploring a typical market, picking out fresh ingredients for your four Khmer dishes, including Fish Amok and Tom Yum. Then, you’ll be welcomed into a family’s home to prepare and cook together. The class’s charm lies in its authenticity and personal touch, giving you insights into daily Cambodian life. The tuk-tuk ride adds a fun, traditional touch to the day. With over 800 reviews and a perfect 5/5 rating, it’s clear this class hits the mark for quality and genuine experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, home-cooked meal combined with local culture. Budget-friendly at $29 per person, it offers great value for a memorable, hands-on experience.
2. Award-Winning Cooking Class Experience with Professional Teacher
At number 2, this 3-hour class stands out for its professional instruction and small group size (max 20 people). You’ll learn to cook classic Khmer dishes like chicken curry and beef lok lak under the guidance of an experienced teacher. The class begins in the lively Pub Street area, making it convenient for travelers. The instructor explains ingredients and techniques clearly, and afterward, everyone samples their creations. This class is especially suited for those who value learning techniques and recipes they can replicate at home, thanks to the digital recipe book provided.
Guests love the fun atmosphere and the detailed guidance, with many describing it as “an amazing experience” full of “great vibes” and “delicious food.”
Bottom Line: Best for food lovers who want hands-on instruction and a relaxed, social setting. At just $22, it’s an excellent value for top-tier teaching.
3. Cambodian Village Cooking Class
Number 3 takes you outside the city to a rural village experience. For around $32, you’ll enjoy a 3-hour interactive workshop with a local chef, starting with a tour of a traditional market. You’ll pick fresh ingredients, then head to a village where you’ll cook a 3-course meal. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes logistics easy, and the small group ensures personalized attention. The highlight for many is appreciating village life and local recipes while enjoying a local beer or soft drink afterward.
Reviews praise the tour for its authentic atmosphere and knowledgeable guide.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a cultural experience combined with cooking in a village setting, suitable for all ages.
4. Siem Reap Cooking Class
Number 4 offers a comprehensive experience with a market tour, followed by a hands-on Khmer cooking class lasting about 3 hours. Led by a local chef, you’ll learn to make one starter, one main course, and one dessert, then enjoy your meal. The class is praised for its friendly guidance and clean, well-organized kitchen. Many reviewers highlight the authenticity and deliciousness of the dishes, especially the authentic flavors crafted by Chef Dee.
Guests appreciate the opportunity to learn essential skills that can be used at home.
Bottom Line: Well-rounded, suitable for all skill levels, and offers excellent value at $30.
5. Cambodian Cooking Class from Siem Reap
Number 5 offers a half-day adventure with interactive rural village cooking. Head out with local chefs, visit a village, cook authentic Cambodian dishes, and learn tips and tricks directly from local cooks. The recipe book is a great souvenir and the village walk provides insight into local life. Many reviews highlight the personal attention and friendly hosts.
Great for travelers wanting culture combined with culinary skills.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a relaxed, educational experience that combines village life and cooking for about $32.
6. Khmer Gourmet Cooking Class
Number 6 is a short but sweet class lasting around 2.5 hours, focusing on local markets and fabulous Khmer dishes. It’s a private experience, offering more personalized attention. The class emphasizes local ingredients and delicious flavors, with many students calling it a “treat” and praising the kindness of the host.
Ideal for those on a tighter schedule but wanting a quality, intimate class.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for a quick but thorough introduction to Khmer cuisine at $21.50.
7. Khmer Cooking Class in Cambodia
Number 7 offers a 2.5-hour interactive class that’s easy to follow, led by a friendly chef. You’ll learn to make favorite Khmer dishes with step-by-step instructions. The class is noted for its fun atmosphere and delicious results.
Best suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, engaging introduction to Khmer cooking without a huge time commitment.
Bottom Line: Great for beginners and those looking for a fun, educational activity at $25.
8. Morning Cooking Class and Market Tour in Siem Reap
Number 8 starts your day with a 4-hour experience, combining a market tour with hands-on cooking. Led by a local chef, this class offers a relaxed pace and the chance to see everyday Cambodian ingredients firsthand.
Reviewers love the informative market walk and the casual atmosphere.
Best for those who want to combine market insight with cooking early in their trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you prefer a full, immersive morning at about $35.
9. Afternoon Cooking Class & Village Tour in Siem Reap
Number 9 offers a 4-hour village-focused experience in the afternoon, with a private chef in rural Cambodia. You’ll visit local houses, tour village landmarks, and cook authentic dishes. It’s a great way to learn about local traditions and rural life while enjoying delicious food.
One reviewer summed it up: “The food was great, and the family was fantastic.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for cultural explorers who want to combine cooking with a village visit.
10. Cambodian Cooking Class
Number 10 provides a market visit plus four Khmer dishes for around $35. The class emphasizes authentic recipes and local ingredients, with an inside look into Cambodian cooking. Many reviewers highlight the friendly hosts and delicious food.
Ideal for those who want an in-depth, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for foodies seeking comprehensive learning.
11. Evening Cooking Class
Number 11 is a 3-hour evening class, with a focus on stunning sunset views and three Khmer dishes. It begins with a cocktail/mocktail featuring lemongrass, then guides you through cooking in a beautiful setting.
It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxing, romantic experience after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Suitable for couples or sunset lovers willing to spend $35 for a memorable evening.
12. Cambodian Private Cooking Class at a Local’s Home
Number 12 offers a very personalized experience in a private home setting. You’ll visit the local market, then cook authentic Khmer dishes in a one-on-one format. It’s ideal for travelers wanting undivided attention and a deeper dive into Cambodian food.
Best suited for those seeking privacy and tailored guidance.
Bottom Line: A premium, flexible option at $33.13, perfect for special interest or culinary learners.
13. Siem Reap Guided Day Trip to Local Village and Cooking Class
Number 13 combines a countryside village tour with a cooking lesson. It includes a food market visit, village exploration, and meal preparation in about 4 hours.
Reviewers praise the informative guide and the delicious meal prepared.
Ideal for travelers who wish to see more of rural Cambodia and learn how to cook in a relaxed, guided environment.
Bottom Line: Great for culture and cuisine lovers, especially those with a full day to spare.
14. Siem Reap: Cambodian Desserts Cooking Lesson with Tastings
Number 14 focuses solely on Cambodian sweets, teaching you to make three delectable desserts. The hands-on workshop includes tasting and a recipe card to recreate the treats at home. It’s perfect for sweet tooths or those interested in dessert techniques.
Many reviewers enjoyed the local flavors and fun atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Suitable for dessert lovers and those wanting to add unique Cambodian sweets to their recipe box, at $32.
15. 3-Hour Siem Reap Guided Cooking Class and Market with Pick up
Number 15 offers a comprehensive introduction to Cambodian cuisine in just 3 hours. It begins with a market tour, then moves to hands-on cooking of a three-course Khmer meal. Many mention the step-by-step guidance and the delicious outcome.
It’s an excellent choice for those new to Khmer food or travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: A practical, engaging class that balances learning and tasting at $30.
How to Choose
When selecting the best cooking class in Siem Reap, think about your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want a deep cultural experience, the Khmer Cooking Class at a Local’s Home or Village Cooking Class offers genuine insights into daily life and food. For more structured learning, the Award-Winning Class or Siem Reap Class provide clear techniques and recipes. Budget-conscious travelers should consider the Khmer Gourmet Cooking Class — it’s short but highly praised. For those craving an evening experience, the Sunset Cooking Class combines beautiful scenery with cooking.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred date and class size. Consider also your fitness level and interest in village life or market tours — some classes involve walking through markets or rural areas, which may require moderate activity.
Final Thoughts
From home-based cooking and village visits to market tours and dessert classes, Siem Reap offers a variety of ways to bring Cambodia’s flavors into your kitchen. If you’re seeking a truly authentic experience, the Khmer Cooking Class at a Local’s Home or the Cambodian Village Cooking Class are excellent choices. For more guided, professional instruction, the Award-Winning Experience is hard to beat.
Travellers who enjoy small-group settings or private lessons will find plenty of options, while families and casual cooks can opt for classes with easy-to-follow recipes and fun atmospheres. No matter your choice, these classes offer a delicious, educational way to deepen your understanding of Khmer cuisine. Book early, and get ready to bring a taste of Cambodia home with you.