Gastronomy & Phnom Penh: (re)discover Khéma La Poste, definitely irresistible

One of the most recent additions to the Thalias Group's already extensive restaurant offering is Khéma La Poste, located in the former Messageries Fluviales de Cochinchine building in Phnom Penh, between the post office and the Sisowath quay, on the corner of rue 13 and 98.

This restaurant is the second avatar of the Khéma brand, whose first representative (on the corner of Rue Pasteur (51) and Rue 228) is well known to lovers of good food at reasonable prices. To distinguish it from its little brother, this first Khéma is now called Khéma Pasteur.

Khéma La Poste

Khéma La Poste is housed in a building that has been superbly renovated. The beautiful pale yellow façade, adorned with white architectural elements, gives the impression of a luxurious establishment. The dining room is elegantly decorated, with white tablecloths and simple, elegant crockery, complemented by comfortable seating.

The two Khéma restaurants in Phnom Penh share the same menu. Diners propose a wide variety of starters, main courses and desserts, highlighting French cuisine as well as some iconic Khmer dishes.

Starters

As far as starters are concerned, there are a few success stories that deserve a special mention. For example, the gravlax salmon, marinated in dill, salt and white pepper, and garnished with capers, thick cream and lemon, is sure to appeal to those who have had enough of the smoked version of this fish.

Equally remarkable is the lobster bisque, with its creamy texture, served with a crab ravioli and accompanied by a crispy ‘mouillette’ that highlights the bisque.

As for the more frugal gourmets, they may be satisfied with one of the solid salads (from the chef, with goat's cheese, salmon, etc.) on offer.

Sweet memories

The mention of some of the main dishes is bound to evoke sweet memories for many Gauls: coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon and hachis parmentier are just some of the dishes that have lulled us back to childhood.

The steak café de Paris, served in a metal dish placed on a raised plate, kept at temperature by heaters, also deserves a special mention. The Khéma Burger is praised by many fans, some of whom claim that it is the best burger in the capital.

The aquatic gentry is also put to good use with dishes that will appeal to many: pan-fried sea bream, fish en papillote... Children who have not been tempted by the schnitzel Milanese will be delighted by the fish and chips, unless they opt for one of the pasta dishes that might appeal to them, such as spaghetti carbonara, or ham and cheese coquillettes.

Cheese and charcuterie

Khéma is also renowned for its very rich and clever cheese and charcuterie assortments. These dishes are served with homemade bread that is universally acclaimed, with some declaring without hesitation that Khéma's baguette is the best in town.

In fact, throughout the meal, the wait staff keep the bread baskets, which have an unfortunate tendency to empty at a dizzying rate, topped with unlimited portions of succulent butter that is a delight to spread on the soft slices of bread. The service is friendly and exceptionally efficient!

Desserts

The dessert menu also offers sweet-lovers a selection of French pastries: chocolate fondant, profiteroles, lemon tart... your taste buds will go wild. You can also choose a plate of seasonal fruit, and children will no doubt be seduced by one or more of the ten flavours of ice cream and sorbets.

Breakfast

The picture would not be complete without mentioning that Khéma La Poste, following in Pasteur's footsteps, still offers a wide choice of breakfasts, and in the afternoon transforms itself into a tea room for those who wish to spend a pleasant moment in elegant surroundings, sampling one of the many varieties of tea, and indulging in the macaroons, fresh scones with bread and jam, or pastries on sale. The only problem is that you'll have almost no chance of being served if you haven't reserved your place in advance!