The best local beer in Cambodia depends on your taste, but Angkor Beer is widely considered the national favorite. For those who prefer a more modern and crisp taste, Cambodia Beer is another top choice among locals and expats. If you are looking for something stronger or more unique, there are also famous stouts and a growing craft beer scene to explore.
Table of Contents
- The Big Three: Cambodia’s Most Popular Beers
- The New Wave: Hanuman, Krud, and Vattanac
- Dark Beers and Stouts for a Stronger Kick
- The Rising Craft Beer Scene
- Cambodian Beer Culture: Ice and “Chul Moy!”
- FAQs About Beer in Cambodia
The Big Three: Cambodia’s Most Popular Beers
For decades, the Cambodian beer market was dominated by just a few names. These are the beers you will see on every street corner, at every wedding, and in every “beer garden.”
1. Angkor Beer (“My Country, My Beer”)
Angkor Beer is the undisputed king of Cambodian brews. Named after the famous Angkor Wat temple, it is brewed in the coastal city of Sihanoukville.
- Taste: It is a classic pale lager with a light, smooth flavor and very little bitterness.
- Best For: Travelers who want the most authentic “Cambodian” experience.
2. Cambodia Beer
Produced by Khmer Beverages, this beer has exploded in popularity over the last decade. It brands itself as a modern, high-quality choice for the younger generation.
- Taste: It is slightly crisper and more refreshing than Angkor, making it very easy to drink in the tropical heat.
- Best For: Long social sessions and pairing with spicy Khmer food.
3. Ganzberg
Though it uses a German name and German brewmasters, Ganzberg is brewed locally in Cambodia. You will see its bright yellow cans everywhere.
- Taste: It has a slightly more “malty” and “European” flavor compared to the lighter local lagers.
The New Wave: Hanuman, Krud, and Vattanac
In the last few years, several new premium brands have entered the market, offering better packaging and more refined flavors.
4. Hanuman Premium Beer:
Known for its stylish bottle and smooth finish. It’s quickly becoming a favorite in upscale bars in Phnom Penh.
5. Krud
This beer is famous for its “Quality” marketing and its name, which refers to the Garuda (a mythical bird-like creature). It is a standard, refreshing lager.
6. Vattanac
A premium lager that targets a more “urban” and “luxury” audience.
Dark Beers and Stouts for a Stronger Kick
Unlike many other Southeast Asian countries, Cambodians have a huge love for stout (dark beer). These are much stronger and heavier than regular lagers.
| Beer Name | Type | Alcohol Content (ABV) | Quick Description |
| Angkor Extra Stout | Stout | ~8% | Creamy, chocolatey, and very strong. |
| Black Panther | Stout | ~8% | A bold, dark beer often enjoyed by older generations. |
| ABC Extra Stout | Stout | ~7% | While more premium, it is a staple at Cambodian weddings. |
The Rising Craft Beer Scene
If you are a “beer geek,” Cambodia has a surprisingly great craft beer scene, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
- Kingdom Breweries: One of the oldest craft players, known for their Pilsners and IPAs.
- Hops Garden: A German-style microbrewery in Phnom Penh where you can drink right next to the brewing tanks.
- Botanico (Cerevisia): A popular garden spot in the capital that serves creative craft beers like IPAs and Honey Ales.
- Pomme (Siem Reap): A must-visit in the temple town for anyone looking for local microbrews on tap.
Cambodian Beer Culture: Ice and “Chul Moy!”
Drinking beer in Cambodia is a very social activity, but there are a few “rules” that might surprise you:
The “Ice” Factor (Tèk Kák)
In Cambodia, beer is almost always served with a large cube of ice in the glass. This might seem strange to Westerners, but in $35^{\circ}\text{C}$ heat, it keeps your drink icy cold and helps you stay hydrated.
“Chul Moy!” (Cheers!)
You don’t just drink alone. Every few minutes, or every sip 😅, someone will raise their glass and shout “Chul Moy!” (pronounced Chool Muy). Everyone at the table must clink glasses and take a sip together.
The Ring-Pull Gamble
Many local canned beers have prizes under the ring-pull. You can win anything from another free beer to a brand-new motorcycle! If you win a free beer, you can usually exchange the tab right there at the local shop.
FAQs About Beer in Cambodia
Q: Is beer cheap in Cambodia?
A: Yes! Cambodia has some of the cheapest beer in the world. A can at a local shop costs about $0.50 to $0.75, while a glass of draft beer in a bar usually costs $0.50 to $1.50.
Q: What is the official national beer?
A: Angkor Beer is officially recognized as the national beer of Cambodia.
Q: Can I drink the ice in my beer?
A: In most cities and tourist areas, the ice is produced in factories using purified water and is safe to consume. However, if you are in a very remote village, you might want to be more cautious.
Q: How do you say “Cheers” in Khmer?
A: You say “Chul Moy!”, derived from the term for animals sparring or clashing horns, Chul represents a head-to-head encounter. Chul Moy (‘One Clash’) metaphorically applies this to the clinking of glasses, symbolizing a unified and forceful celebration between friends and family.
Final Thought
Whether you choose the legendary Angkor Beer, the modern Cambodia Beer, or a heavy stout, drinking beer in the Kingdom is more about the experience than the liquid itself. It’s about the “Chul Moy” spirit, the cold ice on a hot day, and the friendly locals who will almost certainly invite you to join their table.
Key Takeaways:
- Angkor Beer is the classic choice for history and tradition.
- Cambodia Beer is the go-to for a crisp, modern lager.
- Don’t fear the ice! It’s the local way to stay cool.
- Check your ring-pulls, you might just win your next round for free.
