A night in the atmosphere of Orussey
Located just a stone’s throw from the Central Market in downtown Phnom Penh, Orussey Market is the largest in the capital and one of the oldest. Every day, thousands of shoppers come here to buy everything from food and household products to children's toys, clothing, and many other items, all organized across three floors. The market starts to empty out by 5:30 PM, but it is outside where the lively atmosphere shifts. Along the vast parking lot, on the roadside, numerous bars and "street food" restaurants begin to set up, and this continues until after midnight.
As night falls over the Orussey neighborhood, the last stalls close, the shutters come down, and the three floors empty out until the morning at 5 AM. The last vehicles parked on the rooftop and plaza parking lots leave, giving way to new actors in the area. The space is cleared, and the first restaurateurs begin setting up their plastic blue and red chairs, placing tables, lighting the gas burners, and preparing their ingredients for the evening. People flock to this long sidewalk that stretches the entire length of the imposing square—parking lot by day, terrace by night. On the other side, Street 282, still filled with glaring headlights and loud honking during rush hours. The saying holds true when you cross this road: once you pass the famous curb, the overall atmosphere becomes more festive and carefree.
Fried rice: The king of the night
The discerning eye of travelers is usually drawn to one of the many "street food" vendors set up along the square. Here, young chefs, facing the sidewalk, energetically shake their woks to the rhythm of the music coming from the restaurant’s speakers. Fried rice is the specialty here, tossed into the air regularly before falling back into the center of the wok. Sprinkled with the spices and condiments necessary for the recipe, it is then handed over to the owner, standing on a platform behind, who adds the meat of choice. The staff’s motivation is impressive, and the dishes are served in mere seconds. You’ll only wait about two minutes at most before being served. A "fast food" experience, with a twist.
Most of the vendors serve this fried rice, often accompanied by beef, but you can also find other typical dishes to delight in during your evening. Grilled meats, including beef, chicken, pork, and even fish, papaya salads with crab (a specialty of Southeast Asia), stir-fried noodles, and even "fruit shakes" for dessert.
A garlanded bar
The meal, generally very inexpensive, ranging from one to five dollars depending on your dish choice, might seem too quick for travelers in Cambodia who want to take their time and savor the experience. Well, this square understands that. One establishment, quite prominent, stands among the cluster of restaurants facing Orussey Market. A bar, easily identifiable by its glaring brightness, draws your eye. And upon closer inspection, the music will catch your ear as well. The atmosphere here is lively, with the walls adorned with bright, pink fairy lights. Beer and cocktail lovers can enjoy a pleasant evening here, with music playing at just the right volume. It's a perfect way to end this picturesque evening, all at a low cost.