Siem Reap isn’t just about the temples; it’s also a city that truly comes alive at night with a variety of dinner experiences that blend culture, cuisine, and entertainment. Whether you want to watch an elegant Apsara dance while dining on Khmer specialties or enjoy a sunset cruise on Tonle Sap Lake, the options are plentiful. I’ve personally enjoyed the Apsara Show with Hotel Pickup (link) for its immersive cultural display and delicious set menus. For a more relaxed evening, the Sunset Dinner Tour (link) offers a peaceful boat ride with spectacular views of the lake at dusk. With such variety, your perfect evening is just a booking away.
Siem Reap excels at offering dinner experiences that are both culturally enriching and gastronomically satisfying. Many tours include hotel pickups, making logistics simple, and some even combine local markets or river cruises. Whether you prefer a lively folk performance or a romantic sunset cruise, Siem Reap’s dinner options will add a memorable touch to your trip. Below, I’ve broken down the best choices, so you can pick what suits your style and schedule.
1. Siem Reap: Apsara Show Including Dinner & Hotel Pickup
This popular option offers a 2.5-hour cultural journey into Khmer traditions combined with a full Khmer and Asian set menu or buffet. The show features graceful Apsara dancers demonstrating centuries-old hand gestures, set against traditional music. The experience is enhanced by hotel pickup, which makes it convenient after a day of temple touring. Guests consistently praise the mesmerizing dance, with reviews highlighting the emotional expressions and delicious food.
The tour includes a tuk-tuk ride, a photo stop in Siem Reap, and the show itself, making it a well-rounded cultural evening. Priced at $23 per person, it offers excellent value given the quality of entertainment and food. Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, immersive experience with minimal fuss. The highlight is the show’s ability to connect you with Khmer folklore through dance and gesture.
Bottom Line: A lively, cultural show with a full Khmer meal—ideal for first-timers and those wanting a true taste of Cambodia’s dance and traditions.
2. Siem Reap: Apsara Dance Show and Dinner with Hotel Pickup
At number 2, this tour offers a 2-hour experience with the added convenience of hotel transfers. You’ll enjoy a set menu or buffet dinner while watching a mesmerizing Apsara dance performed by skilled artists in traditional costumes. The show captures the essence of Khmer beliefs, with performances that include folk and classical styles, all set in a comfortable venue.
Guests appreciate the professionalism of the dancers and the variety of Khmer dishes, especially the Cambodian BBQ and Amok curry. The inclusion of hotel pick-up makes it perfect for travelers who want a seamless evening without worrying about transportation. Priced at $26 per person, this tour delivers good value, especially given the live cultural entertainment.
Bottom Line: An easy, well-organized evening combining authentic dance and Khmer cuisine, perfect for those who enjoy cultural performances with comfort.
3. Apsara Dance Performance – Including Buffet Dinner & Hotel Pickup
This option provides a classic Khmer buffet along with an Apsara dance show set in a traditional venue. It’s a 2-hour experience that emphasizes the dance’s cultural significance, with a focus on classical and folk styles. The inclusion of hotel transport makes logistics simple and stress-free.
What sets this apart is the variety of dishes — from Khmer favorites to international options — and the colorful dance performances that bring Cambodian myths to life. Reviewers mention the colorful costumes and the informative English guides that explain dance meanings. It’s well suited for families or anyone wanting a balanced mix of entertainment and cuisine.
Bottom Line: A traditional dance and dinner experience that combines cultural storytelling with good food, all in a comfortable setting.
4. Siem Reap: Apsara Dance Show & Dinner with Tuk-Tuk Transfers
For around $26, this 2.5-hour experience features the same engaging Apsara dance along with a buffet dinner. The tour’s standout is the authentic Khmer cuisine served during the performance, with an emphasis on the dance’s gentle, mesmerizing hand gestures.
The tuk-tuk transfers add local flavor to the evening, making transportation part of the adventure. Recent reviews praise the “wonderful dancers and musicians,” and note that the show’s cultural depth makes it more than just a dinner. The only slight caveat is that the atmosphere can be a bit noisy, which can distract some guests, but overall, it’s a solid choice.
Bottom Line: Authentic Khmer culture delivered through dance and cuisine, with an easy tuk-tuk ride that immerses you in Siem Reap’s lively street scene.
5. Sunset Dinner Tour: Tonle Sap Lake Floating Village
Number 5 takes a different route—a 4-hour sunset cruise on Tonle Sap Lake. It’s a chance to experience Cambodia’s floating villages, with visits to crocodile farms and a lotus farm. After a scenic boat ride, you’ll dine on a buffet aboard the Queen Tara Riverboat, enjoying unlimited drinks and stunning sunset views.
This tour is perfect for travelers after a slow-paced, scenic evening that combines local life with a relaxing cruise. The cruise also offers insight into how Cambodians live on the water, making it a uniquely authentic experience. Priced at $49, it’s more than just dinner—it’s a cultural journey on water.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, scenic evening with a memorable boat cruise and lake views.
6. Siem Reap: Dinner and Traditional Show with Hotel Transfer
This 3-hour tour is a straightforward way to enjoy Khmer dance paired with a traditional Khmer meal. The included hotel transfer simplifies your evening. The show features classic Apsara dances and is held in a calming garden or air-conditioned venue, depending on the weather.
Reviewers highlight the beautiful costumes and the magnificent performances, making it a great introduction to Cambodian dance. The meal includes options like Khmer curry and BBQ, offering a flavorful taste of local cuisine. Its convenience makes it suitable for travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, convenient option combining dance and dinner, especially suitable for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Khmer culture.
7. Dining in a Dream with Cambodia’s Most Magical Night
If you’re looking for a truly immersive and theatrical night out, this unique experience is hard to beat. For $80, you dine inside an ancient-ruin-style space and watch a breathtaking dance show blending Cambodian myths with modern choreography. The Western-Asian fusion menu is a highlight, as is the dramatic setting.
The show is original and emotional, with world-class dancers and stunning visuals. The experience lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours and includes hotel pickup. It’s a good fit for travelers who want something more artistic and exclusive. The price reflects the unique ambiance and high-quality production.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime night of dining and dance in a magical, fantasy-like setting.
8. Apsara Theatre Performance include Dinner & hotel pick up
This 1.5-hour experience is focused on efficiency, offering a buffet or set menu amid a beautiful performance of Khmer dance. The included hotel pick-up ensures smooth logistics. Guests love the colorful costumes and the chance to take photos with the dancers.
It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time but still wanting an authentic cultural experience. The professional performers and delicious food make it a popular choice among reviews. The shorter duration is perfect if you’re after a quick yet meaningful cultural fix.
Bottom Line: A quick, high-quality dance and dinner show, perfect for tight schedules without sacrificing cultural authenticity.
9. Apsara Dance Show with Dinner by Tuk-Tuk Roundtrip Transfer
An all-inclusive 2-3 hour evening that combines Khmer dinner, dance performance, and tuk-tuk transfers from your hotel. What makes this stand out is the full experience, from the ride through Siem Reap’s streets to the live dance featuring five traditional performances.
Guests mention the delightful Dancers, and many appreciate the ease of booking. The tour is suited for those who want a comprehensive, no-fuss cultural evening with authentic food and entertainment. The reviews speak of wonderful performances and delicious dishes.
Bottom Line: A convenient and complete cultural evening that’s ideal for travelers who want everything taken care of from start to finish.
10. Apsara Theater Performance include dinner & Hotel pick up
This 2.5-hour tour combines a buffet dinner with a variety of dance styles, including both classical and folk. The seamless hotel pickup adds comfort, and the professional show impresses with costumes and storytelling.
Reviewers rave about the outstanding costumes and the diverse dances, making it a great intro to Cambodian performing arts. Priced at $56, it offers a balance between quality and convenience.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, entertaining evening for those interested in Cambodian dance’s broad spectrum.
11. Siem Reap Apsara Dinner show & Hotel Pick up
This 2-hour experience is a popular choice for first-timers. It features a Khmer buffet or international BBQ, with hotel pickup and a performance showcasing both folk and classical dances. The friendly staff and colorful costumes earn consistent praise.
It’s ideal if you want a full cultural experience in a short time, with the added convenience of door-to-door service. Guests appreciate the exquisite costumes and the informative dance explanations.
Bottom Line: A solid, all-in-one cultural dinner experience with easy logistics—great for those with limited time.
12. Twilight Tastes of Siem Reap Include Dinner
Number 12 is a food-focused tour that combines market visits with street food tasting in the evening. Led by a knowledgeable guide, it’s perfect for foodies who want to explore local flavors and interact with locals in less touristy spots. The tour ends with a dinner and dessert at a local restaurant.
Reviewers rave about the authenticity and the friendly guide who shares insights into Cambodian cuisine. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine culinary exploration with a bit of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for curious food lovers wanting an authentic taste of Siem Reap’s local food scene.
13. Apsara Theatre Performance include Dinner
This 2-hour show presents a variety of Cambodian dances, including classical and folk styles, paired with a buffet or set menu. The tour includes hotel transfers and is praised for professional performances and beautiful costumes.
Guests highlight the informative explanations of dance meanings and the delicious Khmer dishes. It’s a reliable choice for travelers seeking a cultural showcase with good food in a convenient setting.
Bottom Line: A straightforward, quality cultural dinner with a focus on dance diversity and comfort.
14. Sunset Dinner and drinks with a Floating Village cruise
This 4-hour tour offers a relaxing evening cruising among floating villages, crocodile farms, and lotus fields. After a short boat ride, you’ll enjoy dinner and unlimited drinks on the Queen Tara Riverboat while watching the sunset over the lake. It combines water-based sightseeing with a delicious buffet, making for a romantic, scenic night.
Guests compliment the professional guide and the calm ambiance, with reviews mentioning the beautiful sunset and refreshing drinks. It’s best for couples or anyone wanting a peaceful, scenic evening away from the temples.
Bottom Line: Perfect for romantic souls who love water, scenery, and good food in equal measure.
15. Apsara Performance with Dinner include Pick up & Drop off
Lastly, number 15 provides a comprehensive cultural experience for about $22. It includes Khmer folk and classical dance, along with a buffet of authentic Khmer food. The door-to-door pickup and drop-off make logistics effortless.
Guests note the beautiful dance moves and the fabulous costumes, making this a great value for a short, cultural night. It’s suitable for travelers who want an affordable yet authentic evening experience.
Bottom Line: An accessible, cultural introduction with great value and full immersion in Khmer dance traditions.
How to Choose the Right Dinner Experience in Siem Reap
When deciding, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you want a full culture with a spectacular dance show, options like the Dining in a Dream or Apsara Theatre Performances are fantastic. For a relaxing scenic cruise, the Sunset Dinner on Tonle Sap Lake provides a different perspective.
If you’re on a budget or short on time, the Apsara Show with Hotel Pickup or Apsara Dinner & Hotel Pickup deliver a satisfying experience without fuss. For food lovers, the Twilight Tastes offers a delicious journey through local markets and street fare.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and experience.
Final Thoughts
From the enthralling Khmer dance shows to serene sunset cruises, Siem Reap offers a range of dinner experiences tailored to different tastes and budgets. If you’re after authentic culture combined with good food, the Apsara performances are hard to beat. For those seeking a romantic night out or a unique setting, the Dining in a Dream or Floating Village cruise could be perfect.
For family-friendly options, the shorter, lively shows with informative guides work well. And if your schedule is tight, the convenient tours with hotel pickup ensure you enjoy Siem Reap’s cultural richness without stress. Whatever you choose, booking ahead guarantees you won’t miss out on these memorable evenings.