Sandan: Sihanoukville’s Premier Destination for Culinary Excellence and Social Change

In the heart of Sihanoukville, Cambodia, lies a culinary oasis that offers far more than just a meal. Sandan has established itself as one of the most respected dining establishments in the region, blending high-end Khmer cuisine with a powerful social mission. As of 2026, it remains a cornerstone of the community, serving as a beacon of hope for disadvantaged youth while providing travelers with an authentic taste of Cambodia.

A Mission Beyond the Menu

Sandan is a vocational training restaurant operated by the local NGO M’Lop Tapang and is a proud member of the international Tree Alliance network. The primary objective of the restaurant is to provide marginalized young people—many of whom have faced significant hardships—with professional skills in the hospitality and culinary arts.

When you dine at Sandan, your servers and kitchen staff are students working alongside experienced mentors. This “live” training environment ensures that by the time these youth graduate, they possess the expertise and confidence required to secure stable employment in Cambodia’s growing tourism sector. Every dollar spent at the restaurant is reinvested into these training programs and the vital social services provided by M’Lop Tapang.

The Flavors of Cambodia

The culinary experience at Sandan is defined by its commitment to traditional Khmer flavors, elevated by modern presentation and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The undisputed star of the menu is the Fish Amok. This classic Cambodian dish features tender white fish steamed in a rich, coconut-milk-based curry paste flavored with kroeung (lemongrass, turmeric, and galangal). At Sandan, it is celebrated for its perfect balance of spice and creaminess. Another perennial favorite is the Banana Blossom Salad, a refreshing combination of crunchy blossoms, aromatic herbs, and crushed peanuts, often topped with succulent prawns or grilled chicken.

The restaurant also caters heavily to modern dietary preferences, offering an impressive array of vegetarian and vegan versions of traditional dishes, ensuring that the beauty of Khmer food is accessible to every palate.

An Enveloping Atmosphere

The physical setting of Sandan provides a stark, peaceful contrast to the rapidly developing cityscape of Sihanoukville. Set within a order.chuanfurestaurant.com lush garden, the restaurant is designed around a majestic, lit mango tree that creates a serene ambiance for evening diners. There is also a dedicated children’s play area, making it an ideal destination for families.

Planning Your Visit in 2026

For those visiting in 2026, Sandan remains a “must-visit” landmark. Located on Street 10311, it is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Due to its popularity among both locals and international tourists, making a reservation is highly recommended, especially for dinner.

By choosing to dine at Sandan, guests are not merely enjoying a world-class meal; they are actively participating in the empowerment of Cambodia’s next generation.