Flavors of Mexico (Mexican)

Salsa, guacamole and sour cream blend together in the most pleasing way. Partner it with a margarita with fresh lime and salt and you have a great combo.

How on earth did Mexican cuisine appear in Cambodia?

Popular restaurant, Viva Mexican Bar & Grill, in Siem Reap began when Lao Bunthinh returned to Siem Reap having escaped to America during the war. He met his partner, a Mexican cook, and together they began the first and most authentic Tex-Mex style restaurant in town. It can be fair to assume that a lot of Khmericans returning to Cambodia have influenced that trend. That, and a combination of a good idea catching on and expat-run establishments, mean that Mexican food can be found in the major cities of Cambodia. Visit Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville and Battambang and if you’re looking for a satisfying burrito, a crunchy taco, a bit of spice and sweet, salty margaritas then you will not be disappointed.

The vibrant atmosphere, fresh ingredients and variety of flavors is attractive. Everyone is welcome and some places even let you create your own burrito with the flavors you like. You can be assured of the crowd-pleasing favorites such as tacos and burritos at most places with a choice of meat, fish or vegetarian filling.

Outside of Mexican restaurants, you can also frequently find burritos on the menu of places that have a large variety of cuisines, and some smaller places such as Feel Good Cafe in Phnom Penh and Kinyei Cafe in Battambang. There is a huge number of places in Phnom Penh, mostly concentrated around the Riverside area, with a few more in Russian Market. In Siem Reap, Viva is the main restaurant with two locations and staying power of close to 12 years. Siem Reap is a town where restaurants come and go with the tide of tourists. Recently, a small taqueria branched out from Sihanoukville to add their second location of Maybe Later into trendy Kandal Village. The up and coming Funky Lane also has a local Mexican restaurant called Happy Panchos.

Hidden within Green Mango Cafe and Bakery in Battambang, you will also find spicy delights. They have a ”build your own burrito” night as well as regular Mexican dishes on their a la carte menu. Next time you’re looking for something different and a fun place to eat with friends, look up the local Mexican places in your town.

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