Heng Heng Soup – Authentic Cambodian Hot Pot Restaurant
The evening started with pre-drinks at Isirafu Terrace.
It was so lovely to see the Isirafu clan chilling in their home environment and wonderful to see Johan, Willie and their fur babies, finally at home.
We had great fun chatting and sharing stories with everyone and so enjoyed listening to Brandon and Bridgett’s shared past experiences and future dreams. We could also feel Tina’s excitement about her husband’s arrival in Siem Reap, after not having seen each other for months.
The air was filled with laughter and camaraderie. How awesome that all of us, from different walks of life, have settled into this amazing town and are embracing life here.
Before the gin and tonic continued flowing, it was time to take a leisurely stroll to Road 6 and Heng Heng Soup, where we would experience an authentic Cambodian Hot Pot, for the first time.
Going out to eat and cooking our own food had never appealed to us. But this was more about a social get together ,while enjoying and experiencing something new. AND IT WAS A HIT!
Hot pot, although different, could be compared to a fondue evening, where everyone sits around a burner which is placed in the center of the table. Raw meats, seafood, vegetables, and noodles are either grilled on a griddle or cooked in the broth and dipped in sauces before eating and enjoying.
Although we were the only table of westerners, we were greeted warmly and welcomed. After ordering drinks, it was time to decipher the menu which was all in Khmer!
With the help of our translators Johan and Willie, we ordered beef, prawn and squid which was accompanied by a variety of fresh vegetables, lard and butter.
The gas burner on the table was lit and a griddle top was put over the flame. The waitress then poured a broth around the side of the griddle top.
Tina pointed out that we needed to oil the griddle with small blocks of lard and butter, so as she seemed to know what to do, we left her to it.
Then all hands on deck for placing the slivers of beef, prawns and squid onto the griddle, without it slipping off into the broth and adding all the vegetables to the broth, to simmer away.
The sprinklings of soy sauce and crushed dried garlic over the meat while it was grilling, added to the flavour of the broth. We ordered rice and noodles to line our bowls and then scooped up this absolutely delicious broth. OMW! The flavour of the broth was exquisite. An absolute taste sensation!
We all agreed that this was one of the best local meals we have eaten since arriving in Siem Reap. The company was great, the food was fresh and delicious. Food for the soul! (Even the restaurant doggie got to enjoy the left overs fed to him with care by Johan).
The Lovebirds 
Great Conversation 
Fun Times 
Bean Curd Trials 
Let’s give it a go!
We were reminded once again, that no matter how long we have spent in this town, there are always new experiences just waiting to be enjoyed and how awesome it is, to be able to share these with friends.
While sitting enjoying this amazing meal together, we decided that “Sticky Rice Thai” followed by their drag cabaret show, would be next on the list.
We look forward to sharing another “Dining out in Siem Reap” with all our readers.