Our round-the-world journey brought us to Siem Reap, Cambodia — where, over the course of several weeks, we found our own little rituals. A market for quick shopping, a favorite coffee spot, a go-to place for breakfast.
They weren’t trendy tourist cafés — they were places for locals. Humble, often opening and closing without warning, sometimes only running because someone felt like rolling up the shutter that day… or simply needed to earn money.
One of those places was a tiny two-table restaurant serving an incredible dark broth with rice noodles and duck.
We loved it. The soup came packed with mung bean sprouts, scallions, pork meatballs, and a generous serving of duck breast.
With it came large glass mugs filled with ice, ready to be topped up with green tea that was already waiting on the table. And a plate of fresh herbs for self-seasoning.
Khmer eateries are often open only in the morning, or only in the evening, or sometimes just for a few hours.
This one was open all day. It sold only duck boat noodle and nom pao — steamed buns with pork filling.
We went there almost every day — for the consistently delicious duck, imported from Thailand.
We kept wondering why it was always so empty. We figured it was because the restaurant was barely visible from the main road — technically on the intersection, but set back a little. The only signs that food was served here: a pot of nom pao placed near the curb and a faded brown banner in Khmer script. We translated it with our Vasco — it read: “The best taste from Ayutthaya.”
Chan Pov — the cook, owner, waiter, and cleaner in one — would always greet us with a respectful smile when we ordered. He barely spoke any English. Neither did his mother or sister, who we occasionally saw at the restaurant.
Cambodia is full of stories that tug at your heart, and by the expressions on their faces, we could tell they’d been through a lot. They were happy when we came by — aside from us, it seemed the soup was mostly sold to scooter drivers grabbing takeout.
Each time we finished eating and got back on our bikes, Chan Pov would come over to admire the motorcycles. He’d look with wonder and just a touch of envy, and half in English, half with gestures, he’d say: “One day… I go too. But now, no money.”
As the Khmer New Year approached, we knew this family was fighting for more than just their next customer. At the last moment, we snapped a photo of the soup and went looking for a local advertising shop — we wanted to make them a mobile stand, like the ones used by family-run businesses here. Many places turned us away. The Khmer New Year in Siem Reap is a big deal — no one wanted a last-minute order.
Finally, we found the right person.
After several attempts, we met Phanith. As soon as we said “duck boat noodle, two blocks from here”, he knew who we meant.
Phanith had gone to English school with Chan Pov. Chan had to drop out due to health issues and another upcoming surgery.
We clicked instantly. Together, we designed a tall, colorful advertising stand — and the next day it was printed and ready. We headed to POV’s restaurant, the van with the stand following behind.
We’ll never forget Chan Pov’s and his mother’s faces as the agency staff unpacked and set up the stand. They watched in amazement. It was so deeply moving that all of us ended up in tears. We tried to talk, but even with a translator, communication was tough. But that sign… meant more to them than just advertising. It was hope. A sign that someone saw them. That they could fight for a better tomorrow.
Now the soup comes with an egg — because we put it on the stand. A third table has appeared. They’re thinking about how to decorate the place. Iced coffee is now on the menu too.
But you know how it is — every change needs time. There are a few more customers now, but it’s not full. Reviews on Google are trickling in, slowly.
What they need now is for someone to come and eat there.
Smile at Chan Pov and his mom, snap a photo with the soup, and leave a kind word on Google.
If you’re going to Siem Reap — visit Chan Pov and his amazing little restaurant.
Eat some delicious duck boat noodle and help Chan Pov’s get closer to his dream of riding his own motorcycle.
📍 Address: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vMPHi8dMj6ZheT2b7