Nestled along the sleepy banks of the Siem Reap River, just a stone’s throw from the bustling Old Market, lies a Siem Reap hidden gem that’s been winning hearts since 2012. The recently renovated Sister Srey Cafe, founded by two spirited Australian sisters, and now fully Cambodian owned and run (which we love!) is more than just a spot to grab a bite to eat before heading to Angkor Wat. Sister Srey is a testament to community spirit, great coffee, and a mission to make a difference.
From the second you step inside, Sister Srey just feels welcoming. It’s home is a lovely old colonial building with high ceilings and big open frontage letting in loads of light. The vintage tiles whisper tales of the past, while the breezy outdoor facing seating offers the perfect vantage point to watch the world go by. Whether you’re a digital nomad looking for a place to work, catching up with friends, or just soaking in the ambiance, Sister Srey is the perfect retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
The staff at Sister Srey Cafe are some of the welcoming people you can find – not surprising though really, considering Cambodians are well known for their warmth and friendliness! Make sure to ask which freshly baked goods they’ve got on the counter, or just have a chat!
If you’re a coffee aficionado, Sister Srey Cafe is your haven. Their unique blend of freshly brewed coffee has gained a loyal following in town and you’ll often find plenty of locals and expats here enjoying their morning pick me up. They serve up rich, smooth coffee that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re after a strong espresso, a frothy cappuccino, or even a cheeky iced latte to cool down from the Cambodian heat, they’ve got you covered. Oh, and if you’re into alternative milks, they do oat, soy, and almond milk – so no worries there!
At Sister Srey cafe, the menu is the perfect compromise between health conscious dishes and indulgent treats. From hearty all day breakfasts to healthy lunches, there’s something tasty to satisfy every craving. Our favourite breakfast is without a doubt the Big Daddy Breakfast – enough food to keep anyone going through a tiring day of visiting Angkor Wat or the Siem Reap floating villages. We love to pair this one with a pot of delicious peppermint tea or one of their incredible ‘Green Mania’ healthy smoothies!
Vegans, Vegetarians, and those who need to follow a Gluten Free diet will be particularly pleased with the array of options available at Sister Srey. There’s smoothie bowls, fresh salads, and mouthwatering plant-based dishes that don’t compromise on flavour including a healthy and delicious vegetarian Lentil Burger. For those with a sweet tooth, the homemade cakes and cookies are to die for. The menu clearly lists which dishes are suitable for people with various dietary requirements so you know exactly which of their tasty meals you can have (and you’ll have plenty of choice!).
They also have some great local Khmer food dishes at Sister Srey Cafe. Pictured below is the delicious Khmer Noodle Soup – a bargain at $3.75 considering the high quality ingredients, big portions and the knowledge that your money is going into the right hands. The menus list prices in both USD and Khmer Riel as Cambodia uses a dual currency system. If you want to know more about Cambodian currency, check out our handy guide HERE.
What truly sets Sister Srey apart is its commitment to the local community. Established as a social enterprise, the cafe was born out of a desire to support young Khmer students balancing their studies with the need to support their families. Each team member underwent training in hospitality, English language skills, personal development, health and hygiene, and financial literacy. This approach empowered them with skills that extend beyond the cafe, paving the way for brighter futures. Now being fully Cambodian owned and run, this plan was clearly successful!
Moreover, a portion of the cafe’s profits are channeled into local charitable causes, such as APOPO, further amplifying its positive impact on the community. So, every time you enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee here, you’re contributing to meaningful change. There’s also various information boards around that showcase some of the local organisations that you can get involved with!
If you’re not a big coffee drinker, there’s plenty of great drinks options including hot teas (which come served in the cutest teapots!), fresh fruit smoothies and juices, milkshakes and the usual cold drinks. Their ‘Rejuvenate’ juice, with fresh watermelon and pineapple, is incredible!
Sister Srey Cafe welcomes guests from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, 7 days a week. Whether you’re an early riser looking for a hearty breakfast or someone seeking a cozy spot for an afternoon coffee, the cafe’s doors (well, wide open front!) are open to you. Located conveniently near the Old Market, it’s an ideal pitstop during your Siem Reap adventures. If you’re wandering around the market doing your holiday souvenir shopping, make sure you stop in for brunch or a coffee!
The reviews speak volumes and it’s no surprise that Sister Srey has held its own and stayed business for so long, not an easy feat in a transient town like Siem Reap where businesses can fail in a heartbeat. Most visitors rave about the high quality of the food and drinks, while others praise the “friendly service and positive vibes,” a testament to the welcoming atmosphere cultivated by the team.
So, go on – treat yourself to a banging brekkie, sip on a top-tier coffee, and feel good knowing you’re supporting something brilliant at Sister Srey Cafe Siem Reap. You won’t regret it! Don’t forget to check out their Facebook Page for more updates and to see what the team are up to.
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