Restaurant Week Gives Food Industry a Boost
The US Embassy launched the USA: Restaurant Week on Nov. 13. It will run until Nov. 19, featuring restaurants in Phnom Penh that import US agricultural goods with a special promotion. Photo: Teng Yalirozy
- By Teng Yalirozy
- November 13, 2023 7:00 PM
PHNOM PENH– Fifteen restaurants are offering fixed-price meals on an American Menu for a week, a move to help the local food industry bounce back from the pandemic.
“Recovery from the pandemic certainly in Cambodia is going a little bit slower than anticipated,” US Ambassador W. Patrick Murphy said.
“There are global economic headwinds and inflation, some conflicts around the world that's having an impact on food security and supply chains.
“Restaurant Week is a chance to help the local food industry continue to recover and do well.”
The US Embassy launched the USA: Restaurant Week on Nov. 13. It will run until Nov. 19, featuring restaurants in Phnom Penh that import US agricultural goods with a special promotion.
“For over 30 years I've had the honor of representing my country all around the world,” he said.
“And I don't think it's an exaggeration to say that Phnom Penh is one of the finest food destinations.
“It's a little bit surprising for people who come to visit Cambodia, maybe even those who have lived here and seen this evolve over the years. But the choices, selections, the affordability, the quality is just amazing.”
The restaurants featuring in the week include Botanico Wine & Beer Garden, Cerevisia Craft Brewery, CUTS - Rosewood Phnom Penh, Fatboy Subs & Sandwiches, Hard Rock Cafe, Itacate, Khéma, Magal No.1 Korean BBQ House, Metropole Underground, Mike's Burger House - Camko City, New York Steakhouse, Omori BBQ Japan, TELL Restaurant, The Cut Steakhouse and TOPAZ.
Food from the featured restaurants was offered during launch of the USA: Restaurant Week on Nov. 13. Photo: Teng Yalirozy
The Ambassador said the Cambodia-US relationship is positive, with trade being a crucial component. The US is Cambodia's largest export market, surpassing the next five Cambodian export markets combined.
“I think it's a little surprising because the US market is not next door. But each year Cambodians export more and more to the United States. And this creates over a million jobs in Cambodia,” he said.
Cambodian imports from the US were expanding and the goal was to maintain a balanced trading relationship, including agricultural products.
“Beef alone from the United States to Cambodia increased by 130 percent between 2021 and 2022, and it continues to expand this year. But it's not just beef,” he said.
“In Cambodia, you can also enjoy American fruits, wines, spirits, cheeses, grains, seafood and condiments.”
Ambassador Murphy said he was positive about the potential of the country to attract more investors, given that Cambodia is favorable to agricultural products. With US assistance, more agricultural products could be turned into processed products with value added.
“While you are doing it, it’s great to have options, he said. “And buying American products is one of those options. So, it’s really a pleasure to see that it’s expanding here in Cambodia. It’s good to have choices. Maybe once in a while, you want to try something new.”
Daniel Simon, managing director at Rosewood Phnom Penh, said food brings people together and forges bonds.
“Cambodia's a country that as you can see significant government growth over the last years, huge growth in the middle class,” he said. “And with that comes the drive for new things and new food.”
Ambassador Murphy appealed to the people to appreciate the work and the dedication that goes into creating a memorable dining experience.
“I had to say to all of those who work in the food industry, particularly in the kitchens of great restaurants,” he said. “It's hard work, but it's talented work. And we want to appreciate it all week and going forward.”
