Phnom Penh offers a surprising variety of dining experiences that go beyond just eating. Whether you’re drawn to the water, the city lights, or unique sensory journeys, Phnom Penh has something to satisfy every palate and curiosity. We particularly enjoy the Sunset Dinner Cruises for their breathtaking views and live music, which provide a relaxed yet memorable way to see the city from the river. The blindfolded dining experience offers a playful twist that’s perfect for couples looking to connect on a different level.
While many travelers focus on the street food scene, these curated experiences add a layer of comfort, style, and often local culture—making them ideal for special occasions or simply to enjoy a different perspective on Phnom Penh’s lively atmosphere. We’ll walk you through the top options, so you can pick the experience that fits your mood and schedule.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of dining experiences, including river cruises with dinner and live music, evening city tuk tuk tours with dinner, and a sensory blindfolded meal. Some tours focus on scenic views, like the sunset cruises, while others emphasize culture or fun, interactive dining. Click on the links for more details and to book your preferred experience: Sunset Dinner Cruises and Live Music 5 and 7pm, Phnom Penh Mekong Sunset Dinner Cruise, and others.
1. Sunset Dinner Cruises and Live Music 5 and 7pm with Free Pickup
At number 1, this sunset dinner cruise combines cruising along the Mekong with the magic of Phnom Penh’s skyline. For about $9.90 per person, you can enjoy a 2-hour journey, with options for a sunset departure at 5 pm or a later 7 pm cruise. The highlight is gliding past the Royal Palace, floating villages, and seeing the city’s lights twinkle as the sun dips behind the horizon. The boat has a bar offering cocktails, tea, coffee, and beer, with an optional upgrade to an all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner.
What makes this experience special is the blend of scenic beauty and authentic local music performed live onboard. The cruise is suitable for travelers looking for a relaxed yet immersive way to enjoy Phnom Penh’s vibrant waterway. Passengers consistently praise the friendly staff and beautiful views, with reviews describing it as a “good value for money” and a “lovely evening.” The cruise’s water perspective offers a different angle on the city, especially with the skyline lit at night.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups eager to combine dinner, live Khmer music, and a scenic cruise in a laid-back atmosphere.
2. Phnom Penh: Mekong Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Number 2 on our list is the Phnom Penh Mekong Sunset Dinner Cruise, which stands out for its excellent reviews and premium experience. Priced at $10 per person, this 2-hour cruise emphasizes top-notch service, with made-to-order meals, crafted cocktails, and live traditional Khmer music, exclusive to Cambo Cruise. The cruise offers a chance to see the Royal Palace, floating villages, and the Koh Norea Bridge as you relax on a well-appointed boat.
Guests highlight the relaxing atmosphere, friendly crew, and the chance to enjoy Phnom Penh’s sights from the water in comfort. The sunset views over the river are particularly well-rated, making this ideal for travelers seeking both scenery and a touch of luxury. It’s a more refined option for those who want a special night out with excellent food and music.
Bottom Line: An elegant choice for those wanting a high-quality river cruise with dinner and live music, especially at sunset.
3. Phnom Penh: Sunset Dinner Cruise with English Speaking Guide
The Sunset Dinner Cruise with an English-speaking guide offers a relaxed water tour with commentary to enrich your experience. This cruise takes you along the Mekong to see landmarks like the Royal Palace, Diamond Island, and stilted houses, all while enjoying the sunset over Phnom Penh. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing, cultural insights, and a peaceful cruise.
The guide’s insights help connect you with the sights, making this trip ideal for travelers who want more context about the city’s river life. The cruise is especially recommended if you’re interested in seeing the city from the water and learning about local life along the riverbank.
Bottom Line: A good option for those who want scenic views with informative commentary in a comfortable setting.
4. Phnom Penh: Evening City Tour by Tuk Tuk with 1 Dinner
Number 4 on our list offers a different kind of dinner experience—a vibrant evening tuk tuk tour of Phnom Penh’s main landmarks. Starting at just $29, your tuk tuk will whisk you through the city’s illuminated sites, including Wat Phnom, the Night Market, the Royal Palace, and Diamond Island. The highlight is the included dinner, which allows you to sample local flavors while enjoying the city’s lively after-dark atmosphere.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a combination of sightseeing and dining without dedicating an entire day. It’s especially good if your time is limited but you want to experience Phnom Penh’s night charm. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.8/5 rating, thanks to the friendly guides and the beautifully lit landmarks.
Bottom Line: A fun, hassle-free way to see Phnom Penh’s highlights and enjoy a delicious dinner in the same outing.
5. Dinner Cruise 1h45 on the Mekong including 4 courses
The Dinner Cruise with 4 courses offers a more substantial meal during a 1 hour 45-minute cruise. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a sit-down dinner while enjoying the gentle sway of the river. The menu is curated by a French owner and a Cambodian chef, ensuring a refined culinary experience.
While reviews are limited, the highlight is the quality of the food and the relaxing ambiance. The cruise takes you past the Royal Palace, with views of Phnom Penh’s skyline and local river life. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a more extended and culinary-focused river experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers seeking a longer, satisfying meal with scenic views on the Mekong.
6. Tonle Bassac II Restaurant Buffet in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Number 6 is the Tonle Bassac II Restaurant Buffet, offering over 200 dishes including Chinese, Cambodian, Vietnamese, and Thai cuisines. At $12 per person, it’s one of the most budget-friendly options with a broad selection, including free tea for lunch and a BBQ for dinner.
This buffet is perfect for travelers wanting variety and value, especially if you’re craving a robust, all-you-can-eat meal after a day of sightseeing. The restaurant’s central location makes it convenient, and the large parking lot adds to its accessibility.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a wide variety of flavors at a reasonable price, with a relaxed, buffet-style setting.
$12 per person
7. PHNOM PENH: Blindfolded Dining Experience with Tuk Tuk
For something entirely different, the Blindfolded Dining Experience combines cultural curiosity with sensory fun. For around $59, you’ll be picked up by tuk tuk, then guided through a 3-course meal served blindfolded. An experienced moderator helps deepen your connection and reawaken your senses.
What makes this tour unique is the focus on touch, taste, and shared experience—a great choice for couples or friends wanting to challenge their perceptions of taste and enjoy a memorable, playful evening. The reviews are outstanding, with a 4.9/5 rating, emphasizing the personalized attention and the intriguing format.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous eaters and couples seeking a fun, intimate experience that goes beyond just eating.
$59 per person
8. Buffet Dinner Cruise Experience with Live Music
Rounding out our list is a buffet dinner cruise that offers a chance to sail under Phnom Penh’s skyline while enjoying a variety of Cambodian dishes. Though reviews are currently unavailable, the experience promises spectacular river views and a relaxing atmosphere with live music.
This is best suited for travelers who want a simple, no-fuss way to enjoy the riverside ambiance with some good eats. The cruise passes by iconic sights like the Royal Palace, making it a lovely way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, scenic dinner option, ideal for those who prefer a relaxed cruise with a buffet and live music.
$12.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Dining Experience in Phnom Penh
When selecting the best experience, consider your budget, interest in water or city views, and whether you prefer a guided tour or a casual buffet. For instance, if you want a romantic sunset cruise, the Sunset Dinner Cruises or the Mekong Sunset Dinner are excellent choices. For a fun, interactive night, the Blindfolded Dining Experience offers something truly different. If you’re tight on time, the evening tuk tuk tour with dinner combines sightseeing with a meal.
Booking early is advisable for popular options, especially during peak season or holidays. Think about what kind of atmosphere you want—relaxing river views, lively city lights, or a playful sensory challenge—and then pick accordingly.
Final thoughts
Phnom Penh’s dining options are as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re on the water enjoying a sunset cruise, exploring the city by tuk tuk, or trying something more adventurous like blindfolded dining, you’ll find memorable ways to enjoy your meal. For a relaxed night with scenic views and live Khmer music, the Sunset Dinner Cruise makes a perfect choice. If you crave a more interactive and playful experience, the Blindfolded Dining will leave you talking for days.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unique tastes of Phnom Penh. Happy dining!