Kandal Market is a genuine local market that is located in the center of Phnom Penh close to Riverside. The Khmer name of the market is Phsar Kandal which translates to market in the middle or central market, not to be confused with the “real” Central Market, Phsar Thmei.

A typical, sprawling, low-slung local market similar to Phsar Chas. Meat, vegetables, fruits and tailors fill the north half while jewelers and electronics stalls are located in the building next door. It’s a very local scene but as the market is only a couple of blocks off the riverfront tourists occasionally find their way to the coffee stalls and noodle shops. There is a comparatively large Vietnam-ese population living in the area around Phsar Kandal, which and is reflected in the character of the market – the food, the dress and the language.

Kandal Market does not look like much from the outside but when you get further in it is relatively clean and fresh, even though the walkways are small and narrow. The Market is filled with goods like clothes, jewelry, shoes, bags but the majority of it is fresh food for the locals.

The Market is open from early morning until late evening but some of the stalls inside the market close at 5-6pm.