12.28.08
Review of Kampuchea, Saturday October 2008
78 Rivington & Allen Sts., 212-529-3901
Great for: Café Habana-style corn with less wait, noodle lovers, upscale Asian food near Chinatown
I had no dinner plans one Saturday – I know, shocking! This guy I really liked turned out to be a total flake – and instead of feeling sorry for myself, I capped a long, efficient day of shopping with dinner here. I wouldn’t know how authentically Cambodian it is but I hear good things about that. And the food is great, which is all that really matters.
The corn on the cob appetizer is fantastic. I love the same thing at Café Habana, and it was delightful to find it here unexpectedly. Basically, the Kampuchea version has spicier sauce, less cheese and more coconut. The ears are enormous as well. I was kind of happy no one I knew was there to watch me decimate two giant ears all by myself… it’s a bit of a messy process. I think I acquitted myself as daintily as could be expected though.
The duroc pork katiev with wide, flat, white noodles continued my happiness. I ended up adding a lot of hot sauce and ate all the leaves. I very much enjoyed the small and dried yet meaty shrimp. The pork was really good, with some fat but edible.
It’s a bright cheery place, with friendly servers, communal wooden tables and nicely sized stools. I wish they’d do takeout of more of the menu, but I can understand some things need to be eaten right away. I have actually been dreaming about the next time I can come back.
Rating: 8 / 10
My cost: $30
Noise level: I could still hear myself think
Chance of walking in: small. It’s not a big place, try early. They’re closed Mondays and lunch is only Friday to Sunday.
