Planning a night out in Phnom Penh that combines authentic Cambodian culture, refined entertainment, and a delicious meal? The Royal Ballet of Cambodia Apsara Dance Show offers exactly that—an elegant blend of tradition, artistry, and scenic dining. Whether you’re a culture vulture or simply after a memorable night, this show provides a window into Cambodia’s storied past through dance, music, and cuisine.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the gracefulness of the Apsara dancers—their movements are both mesmerizing and precise, a true highlight for anyone interested in traditional performance arts. Second, the spectacular views of the Tonle Sap River from the Riverview Restaurant create a perfect backdrop for a relaxed, yet culturally enriching evening. On the flip side, a consideration for visitors might be the fixed schedule—this event runs only on weekends at a specific time, so planning around that is essential.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want to witness authentic Cambodian artistry in a beautiful setting. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good food paired with cultural performances, and for anyone supporting the preservation of traditional arts. If you’re looking for a refined yet accessible cultural night in Phnom Penh, this show ticks quite a few boxes.
Key Points
- Authentic performance: Enjoy a traditional Apsara dance by the Royal Ballet of Cambodia, showcasing centuries-old choreography with graceful movements.
- Scenic dining: The Riverview Restaurant offers views of the Tonle Sap River, making the dinner part of the experience just as memorable as the show.
- Diverse menu options: Savor a fusion of Modern Italian, Australian, and Khmer cuisines, with options ranging from comfort foods like beef lok lak to premium dishes like Wagyu and seafood.
- Support for arts: Every ticket helps fund the Royal Cambodian Ballet, led by HRH Prince Sisowath Tesso, ensuring this cultural treasure continues.
- Accessible location: The venue is within walking distance from the Royal Palace, making it convenient for those exploring Phnom Penh’s main sights.
- Flexible booking: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible with a “reserve now, pay later” option.
👉 Check out our guide to the 4 Best Dining Experiences In Phnom Penh
Contents
- Key Points
- A Deep Dive into the Experience
- The Venue and Atmosphere
- The Performance
- The Menu and Dining Experience
- Supporting the Arts
- Practical Details
- Authenticity and Reviews
- Who Will Love This?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Phnom Penh
- More Shows & Entertainment in Phnom Penh
- More Tour Reviews in Phnom Penh
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Phnom Penh we have recnetly reviewed
A Deep Dive into the Experience
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The Venue and Atmosphere
You’ll find the Riverview Restaurant situated along the prettiest stretch of the Tonle Sap River, with views that are both calming and photogenic. Its elevated position offers a relaxed setting where the gentle river breeze complements the evening’s entertainment. The restaurant’s interior is stylish yet understated, allowing the performance and river vistas to take center stage.
Many reviews praise the beautiful venue, describing it as a perfect place for a special night out. One traveler from Canada called it a “beautiful venue and performance,” capturing the overall impression of elegance and cultural pride.
The Performance
The highlight is undoubtedly the traditional Apsara dance, performed by the Royal Ballet, which is renowned for its exquisite movements. Reviewers frequently mention the dancers’ fascinating and almost otherworldly movement, emphasizing the skill and discipline involved. “Movement like I’ve never seen before,” one traveler from Ireland noted, highlighting how this performance leaves a lasting impression.
The dance is deeply rooted in Cambodian culture, with the dancers wearing intricate costumes and headdresses that mirror historical depictions of celestial beings. The performance typically lasts about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to settle into the experience without feeling rushed.
The Menu and Dining Experience
One of the notable aspects of this tour is its fusion menu. You can choose from a range of affordable comfort foods like beef lok lak—Cambodia’s beloved stir-fried beef served with rice—and Khmer desserts such as nom lort. For those seeking a more indulgent meal, premium dishes like Wagyu beef, fresh seafood, and pasta are available, often cooked to order.
Many visitors appreciate the delicious food and the opportunity to sample both local and international cuisines. The restaurant’s menu offers a la carte selection, ensuring you can tailor your dining experience. Several guests have remarked on the excellent wine selection and the opportunity to enjoy their drinks while watching the dancers perform.
More Great Tours NearbySupporting the Arts
An important aspect of this experience is that all ticket sales go directly to the Royal Cambodian Ballet. This means your visit helps preserve a vital part of Cambodia’s cultural heritage. The ballet is led by HRH Prince Sisowath Tesso, and supporting this initiative ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy these traditional arts.
Practical Details
- The show runs every Saturday and Sunday from 7:00 PM to 9:15 PM. Planning around this schedule is essential.
- The meeting point is on the 1st floor of the Riverview Restaurant, located at 313 Quayside, Preah Sisowath Quay.
- The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it suitable for an evening outing.
- It’s wheelchair accessible, which increases its inclusivity.
- Booking can be done with full flexibility: cancel up to 24 hours beforehand with a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.
Authenticity and Reviews
Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views and the quality of the performance. One traveler from Singapore called it an “excellent cultural experience,” while another from Romania described the dancers’ movements as “super.” The consistent 4.9 out of 5 rating reflects a high level of satisfaction among participants, with many noting that they found the experience both beautiful and meaningful.
Several reviews also mention the good value for money, especially considering the cultural significance and the scenic setting. The fact that every cent from ticket sales supports the Royal Ballet adds a feel-good factor to the evening.
Who Will Love This?
This experience is best suited for travelers who value cultural authenticity and a relaxing dining environment. It’s perfect for those wanting a memorable night that combines art, history, and cuisine, all in one elegant package. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this a compelling choice, especially if they’re interested in supporting local arts.
It is less suitable if you’re on a strict budget or seeking a more fast-paced or lively nightlife experience. The focus here is on quality, tradition, and scenic beauty, making it ideal for those who appreciate a refined, contemplative evening.
The Sum Up
For anyone visiting Phnom Penh, the Royal Ballet of Cambodia Apsara Dance Show offers a rare chance to see authentic Cambodian dance performed by highly skilled dancers in a stunning riverside setting. The combination of graceful performances, delicious fusion cuisine, and a supportive cause makes this experience both enjoyable and meaningful.
The venue’s scenic location, coupled with the high-quality dance and the chance to try a mix of local and international dishes, makes it a well-rounded cultural outing. It’s an especially good pick for those who want to witness Cambodia’s artistic traditions in an environment that’s both elegant and accessible.
If you’re after a memorable night that pairs culture with comfort and supports the preservation of Cambodia’s heritage, this show is a fantastic choice. It offers great value, an authentic glimpse into Cambodia’s artistic soul, and an opportunity to enjoy the river views in style.
Royal Ballet of Cambodia Apsara Dance Show
“Top ! Mieux qu’imaginé.”
FAQ
What is the duration of the Royal Ballet of Cambodia Apsara Dance Show?
The show lasts approximately 2.5 hours, from 7:00 PM to about 9:15 PM, allowing plenty of time for dinner and performance.
Where is the meeting point?
You’ll meet on the 1st floor at Riverview Restaurant, located at 313 Quayside, Preah Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh.
Is the event accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for guests with mobility concerns to enjoy the experience.
Which nights does the show operate?
The show runs every Saturday and Sunday evening.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel your reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.
What cuisines are available for dining?
Guests can choose from a fusion of Modern Italian, Australian, and Khmer dishes, with options ranging from comfort foods to premium seafood and Wagyu.
Is my ticket purchase supporting a good cause?
Absolutely. All ticket sales go directly to the Royal Cambodian Ballet, helping preserve this traditional art form led by HRH Prince Sisowath Tesso.
Can I reserve my spot now and pay later?
Yes, the booking system allows you to reserve now and pay later, making it easier to plan your trip.
What makes this experience special?
The combination of a stunning riverside setting, authentic dance, delicious food, and support for Cambodian arts makes it a well-rounded and meaningful evening.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes, it’s appropriate for families, especially those interested in cultural performances and scenic dining experiences.
