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The 3 Best Cooking Classes in Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville might be better known for its beaches and lively nightlife, but it’s also a fantastic place to learn about Cambodian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just curious about local flavors, taking a cooking class can be a rewarding way to connect with Cambodian culture. We particularly like the classes that mix hands-on techniques with authentic ingredients and local stories. Our favorite is the Cooking class in Kampot, held just a short trip from Sihanoukville, because of its intimate setting and the chance to learn traditional recipes like amok and papaya salad with a professional chef. Plus, it includes all ingredients, making it a stress-free way to learn.
If you want an even deeper experience that combines market visits, organic garden harvesting, and a communal meal, the Kampot Cooking Class by Eco Lotus Kampot offers a full sensory immersion in Khmer food traditions. For those who prefer a more comprehensive, organized experience and don’t mind splurging, the Khmer Traditional Cooking Class in Sihanoukville provides a full cultural package, including shopping, tasting, and cooking.
Below is a quick overview of the top options, highlighting what makes each one special:
- Cooking class in Kampot – Focused on authentic recipes, private experience, and expert tips
- Kampot Cooking Class by Eco Lotus – Market visits, organic garden, and multiple dishes in a relaxed setting
- Sihanoukville – Khmer Traditional Cooking Class – Cultural immersion, shopping, and a complete Khmer dining experience
1. Cooking class in Kampot
At number one, the Cooking class in Kampot stands out for its intimate and personalized approach—it’s perfect for those who want to really understand Cambodian cooking. Held in a traditional colonial house near the river, this class lasts about 4 hours and covers the preparation of several classic dishes, like larb, papaya salad, and amok. All ingredients and cookery training are included, so you just show up hungry and ready to learn.
What makes this class unique is its private setting—whether you’re traveling alone or with a small group, you’ll have a dedicated chef guiding you step-by-step. Past reviews repeatedly mention how much fun it is to pick ingredients, learn new techniques, and sit down afterward to feast on the fruits of your labor. One reviewer noted, “It includes a large 3-course meal—recommended.” The chef’s English is excellent, and they’re eager to share tips for making Khmer food at home.
A bonus is the local restaurant suggestions your guide offers for the rest of your trip. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, hands-on cooking experience that’s both educational and delicious. The cost is around $20 per person, making it an excellent value.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a fun, private cooking class that covers Khmer staples and leaves you with new skills, this is a top pick.
2. Kampot Cooking Class by Eco Lotus Kampot
Next on our list is the Kampot Cooking Class by Eco Lotus Kampot, which offers a comprehensive experience that combines local culture, a market tour, and organic garden visits. Starting at 9:00 a.m., you’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken through a vibrant Samaki Market to select fresh ingredients—this is an excellent chance to see what locals buy.
Afterward, you’ll arrive at their traditional home stay, where you can pick herbs from the organic garden and learn to prepare three Khmer dishes plus a dessert. The class lasts about 5 hours and includes all ingredients and a communal meal at the end. During the session, the instructor shares insights into Khmer culinary traditions, making it both educational and flavorful. One reviewer praised the “lovely property” and how they could harvest herbs themselves, making it very interactive.
This tour is especially suited for those who want a deep dive into local food, complete with cultural context. It’s well-priced at $25 per person, considering the full day’s experience. The mixture of market shopping, organic garden harvesting, and cooking makes this a well-rounded choice for foodies wanting more than just a cooking demo.
Bottom Line: For a full-day cultural and culinary immersion, this eco-friendly, hands-on class offers fantastic value.
3. Sihanoukville – Khmer Traditional Cooking Class
Finally, the Khmer Traditional Cooking Class in Sihanoukville itself offers a premium experience, priced at around $110 per person. This tour is aimed at travelers who want not just to cook but to truly immerse in Khmer culture. The class is about 5 hours long and includes shopping for ingredients, tasting local foods, and learning about Cambodian traditions.
This experience is ideal for cruise passengers or those with a flexible budget who want a thorough cultural outing. The class emphasizes tasting traditional foods and the story behind each dish, which is perfect for history and culture buffs. Participants often leave with a deeper understanding of Khmer customs and a variety of dishes they can recreate at home.
While it costs more than the other options, the value lies in the full cultural package—shopping, tasting, cooking, and cultural insights. However, keep in mind that the price might be prohibitive for those on a tight budget or looking for a quick taste of Khmer cooking.
Bottom Line: If you value a comprehensive, cultural experience with guided shopping and storytelling, this class delivers a rich perspective on Khmer cuisine.
$110 per person
How to Choose the Best Cooking Class in Sihanoukville
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, how much time you have, and what kind of experience you seek. If you want a personalized, hands-on class with great value, the Cooking class in Kampot is hard to beat. For a full-day, immersive experience with market visits and organic gardens, the Eco Lotus Kampot class is ideal. And if you’re looking for a deep cultural dive with shopping and tasting, the pricier Khmer Traditional Cooking Class offers a complete package.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular classes, and think about the logistics—if you’re staying in Sihanoukville, the Kampot options are just a short trip away, making them convenient day trips.
Final Thoughts
Sihanoukville’s cooking classes offer a great way to step beyond the beaches and explore Cambodia through its food. The private, authentic experience in Kampot is perfect for those wanting to learn traditional recipes in a relaxed setting. The Eco Lotus class is ideal for travelers eager for a full cultural experience, while the Khmer Traditional class suits those who want an in-depth, guided tour of Khmer culinary customs.
No matter which you choose, these classes are sure to leave you with new skills, delicious memories, and a deeper appreciation for Cambodian food. Be sure to book early, especially if your trip coincides with busy travel seasons—these experiences fill up quickly!