From Literary Cafés to Health-Conscious Eateries: A Guide to Phnom Penh's Best Light Bites

During my recent lunch breaks, I explored venues ranging from tranquil literary cafés to health-conscious eateries. Here's my curated guide to Phnom Penh’s best light bites

Tsutaya Bookstore and Café - A Literary Haven

Tsutaya Bookstore | 1F Aeon Mall Sothearos

Nestled on level one of Aeon Mall Sothearos, Tsutaya Bookstore and Café brings a slice of Tokyo's sophisticated café culture to Cambodia. This Japanese cultural hub has quickly become a favorite among locals and expatriates alike.

The space is a masterful blend of contemporary design and literary charm, featuring warm lighting, elegant wooden accents, and impressive floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. Bibliophiles will appreciate their thoughtfully curated multilingual collection with special emphasis on art, design, travel, and cuisine.

What truly sets Tsutaya apart is their distinctive "lifestyle proposal" concept. The integrated Tokyo-inspired café serves delightful Japanese-inspired sandwiches alongside expertly crafted specialty coffees and teas. Whether you're browsing books, catching up on work, or seeking quiet conversation away from Phnom Penh's energetic streets, Tsutaya offers the perfect sanctuary. The wallet-friendly price range of $3-$5 makes it accessible for regular visits.

Gerbie - Fresh, Fast, and Flavorful

Gerbie | Street 51 Pasteur, Beoung Kang Kang 1

For those seeking healthy options on the go, Gerbie has established itself as a standout in Phnom Penh's casual dining scene. This modern grab-and-go concept caters perfectly to busy professionals and health-conscious diners with its impressive array of fresh sandwiches and vibrant salads.

Strategically positioned in the popular BKK1 district, Gerbie provides a welcome escape from the city's frenetic pace. This small eatery, nestled in a row of shophouses, features simple design elements with an old-world charm, abundant natural lighting, and thoughtfully arranged seating areas for those who prefer to dine in. Most patrons, however, take advantage of their efficient takeaway service.

With generous portions and quality ingredients, Gerbie offers excellent value. Salads range from $5.50 to $9, while their creative sandwiches are priced between $5.50 and $8.50 – a fair investment in both satisfaction and nutrition.

Toast - Artisanal Excellence

Toast | Street 334 Beoung Keng Kang 1

My lunchtime culinary journey also led me to Toast, a charming establishment that has carved a distinctive niche in Phnom Penh's evolving health-conscious dining landscape. This boutique sandwich and salad shop distinguishes itself through its commitment to artisanal breads and premium, farm-fresh ingredients.

Also located in the trendy BKK1 area, Toast welcomes guests into a bright, airy space characterized by minimalist décor and expansive windows that bathe the interior in natural light. The café's modern aesthetic pairs perfectly with comfortable seating arrangements, creating an environment suitable for both quick business lunches and leisurely social meals.

Gochujang Chicken with freshing Agua Freca

Toast's menu is elegantly simple, focusing on two primary categories: artisanal sandwiches and creative salads. Each offering showcases their dedication to made-from-scratch components and thoughtful flavor combinations. Positioned in the mid-to-upper range of Phnom Penh's casual dining options, sandwiches range from $5.50-$8.50, while their inventive salads are priced between $6-$9.

Final Thoughts

Phnom Penh's sandwich and salad scene is thriving with options that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you're seeking a peaceful literary retreat at Tsutaya, a quick and healthy bite at Gerbie, or artisanal craftsmanship at Toast, the city offers delightful culinary experiences beyond traditional Cambodian cuisine. These establishments blend international influences with local hospitality, creating spaces where food lovers can refuel and recharge. Next time you find yourself in Cambodia's vibrant capital, step away from the tourist trail and treat yourself to these local favorites – your taste buds will thank you!