Smack-bang in the city centre on Pokambor Avenue and offering soothing views of the Siem Reap River, across the road from the maze-like Old Market (Psar Chas), Sister Srey is a long-established (2012) tourist favourite and social enterprise. The attractive plating, friendly service, Western and Australian-style “brekkie”, both carnivorous and vegan food, juices, smoothies and spiffing coffee ensure a packed house year-round.
In a country still riddled with Unexploded Ordnance from the Vietnam War, which spilled over into Cambodia, Sister Srey donates a percentage of its profits to APOPO, a landmine-clearance company near Angkor Archaeological Park which uses trained rats to help make the grounds near the Unesco attraction safer for both residents and visitors. But it’s known equally for empowering young people from disadvantaged backgrounds who need to both study and support their families financially.
Each staff member is trained in hospitality, English-language skills, personal development, health, hygiene and banking, intended to help lead them to a brighter, more prosperous future. Bright and jokey signage leaven the mood, and book sellers are often seen outside, helping them too to make a small profit from disabilities inflicted by landmines.
