Top 5 Cafes in PP
rated by Journalism's very own cafe hopper; just kidding
1. Café Studio
Much like its name, Cafe Studio gives a studio-like vibe with the color themes of black, gray, and brown.
One of the things that attracted me to this cafe is it's short distance from Logos. It's placed right along Hanoi street, making it accessible for people who live around the area of our school. Did I mention that they also have another location in Toul Tom Poung for those who live in the south of Phnom Penh?
It has a pretty good and quiet atmosphere(perfect for studying), though very cold so make sure to bring a jacket!
As for food, everything I've tried here is *chefs kiss*. This cafe is perfect for those who want to grab a bite to eat while also studying. It's also a great place to study with friends or even just hang out in general.
Overall, this is definitely 1st on my list. A Pretty, dark atmosphere, with a diverse range of food/drink; it checks off all the criteria for a perfect cafe!
2. Café 101
An authentic coffee house that looks simple, yet feels like a whole new small world. Quiet and peaceful, it's a great place to focus and study alone.
Located near the Orusset market, It isn't too far from downtown, neither is it too far from school/toul kork. I personally believe it's a fair, neutral location if you need a quiet place for your studies.
This cafe gives off a very bright and fresh vibe to it, which is the total opposite of cafe studio.
The only downside is that the menu is limited and doesn't have much variety. If you're only planning to only have a drink while studying, Cafe 101 is the one to go!
Nonetheless, I still had a great experience with Cafe 101 and would definitely recommend anyone who studies best in bright settings.
3. Kamu
Kamu is famous for serving the best milk and fruit tea in the area of Toul Kork, but it's still a pleasant place to study at. A spacious, pastel-vibe cafe with the cutest drinks you can find. With large windows and soft chairs, it brings you a very cozy and delightful ambiance.
I found myself going to Kamu almost every week last year. What sets it to 3rd on the list, though, is how busy it is. There aren't that many people these days, but as far as my past visits, it was packed and I couldn't focus on my tutoring. By afternoon at about 5-6 pm (weekdays), the noise decreased a little but can still be distracting. If you're planning to go on the weekends, make sure to avoid going from 2-4 pm as it's the busiest time.
Kamu only serves drinks, but the chizu brulee, dino milo, and strawberry lemonade are my top 3 favorites if anyone wants to try them!
Overall, it offers a very cozy environment but definitely keep it's busy hours in mind:)
4. Cafe Honest
From food to atmosphere and coffee, this cafe located on the streets of Toul Kork(another branch in Noromall as well) is just perfect for any occasion.
The TK branch brings more of a vintage-brown vibe, and the new branch brings out a more pastel, colorful vibe. The food, drinks, and decorations really bring out a Korean vibe, offering a piece of home to many Koreans.
I can't even choose a favorite because everything is SO GOOD!! You're really going to like every food item they serve.
The only downside to it is that its pricey compared to other cafes. Though with the quality of the homemade baked goods, I'd argue that it's pretty reasonable.
Overall, the music/aesthetics/food/environment is perfect for you to spend some alone studying time or with a friend.
5. The Shop
Though more of a restaurant, the shop is still one of my go-to's. The Shop brings out a very simple, green, and homey vibe; especially the scent of the baked goods and chocolate mmmm!
The Toul Kork branch, the one that I always go to, is a one-story building with a spacious atmosphere inside, a beautiful small garden upfront, and a terrace at the back.
I'd recommend The Shop more for people who would like to go out for brunch though. The seatings aren't very comfortable and the restaurant itself isn't solely built for studying, but its peacefulness is what keeps me going!
As it's a restaurant, you can basically have a whole meal along with desserts here. It offers a wide variety of cuisines and drinks that won't disappoint you.
- Joy C.