Battabang's Favorite Noodle
Beef Steak served with Lime Juice
Salted Fish with Pork Omelette
Fish Cake Appetizer
The Phnom Penh Noodle House is a piece of Seattle history. It’s a tribute and monument to the struggles of the Southeast Asian immigrant and refugee community of Seattle. Opened in 1987, proprietor and chef Sam Ung has seen his business flourish after he and his family fled the Khmer Rouge. A family owned restaurant, it now serves over 60 authentic Khmer dishes, but the menu also reflects cuisine from neighboring Vietnam, Thailand and Laos. Mr. Ung has recently written a book about his experience as well.
I’m embarrassed to admit that I tried Phnom Penh this year….it should’ve happened awhile ago. However, it has become my favorite restaurant in the International District and a place that I frequently take out of town visitors. Since I haven’t been to other Khmer restaurants, I can’t make any claims to its authenticity, I just know it tastes good…the kind’ve good that reminds you of home. I love the scent of fish sauce and saltiness that accompanies the food- so my favorite is Battabang’s Noodle- a dry noodle served with cucumbers, egg, pickles, dried fish and a salty and fishy sauce. The chewiness of the noodles with the toppings provides that smile and satisfaction that should accompany any meal. When I’m sick, I crave the Fisherman’s Bowl- a bowl of spicy broth lemony broth. The flavors of this restaurant are strong and memorable, but the food is not greasy or heavy – I still feel like I’m eating a healthy meal.
One need not be adventurous to try Khmer food- a person eating here will find very familiar qualities of other dishes. That comforting aspect brings me back over and over again to try new dishes and hope that someone orders something I have previously had so I can steal a bite. It’s one of those places that I want to go to when I can’t decide what I want to eat …and I always know that I will not be disappointed.
If you haven’t tried Phnom Penh, please go now. Right now. Seriously. Now.
Phnom Penh Noodle House
660 S King St
Seattle, WA 98104-2938
(206) 748-9825
