AsiaLIFE

The riverside is full of identical, rattan furnished, small shop-front restaurants. Catering mainly to tourists, most serve a mix of Asian dishes and pub grub with generous happy hours to boot. Anjali, located a stone’s throw north of the crossing of death, is at first look not much different.

The food at this joint is however above par. With the slogan “Sleep ‘til you’re hungry, eat ‘til you’re sleepy”, Anjali has an extensive menu. The all day BIG breakfast at US$4.25 is a definite winner, complete with bacon, sausage, baked beans, smoked ham, eggs, hash browns, grilled tomatoes, toast and coffee or tea. Another favourite among meat-eaters is the roast beef with sausage and chips (US$6). Though somewhat dearer than what is usually considered a “bargain bucket” dish, the tender meat, very decent sausage (not Sainsbury’s finest, but very good for Cambodia), as well as lovingly thick gravy, make sure the dish represents very good value for money.

Lighter meal options include a range of salads, including the Nicosia salad (US$3). Large in size, the salad fills your tummy with fresh ingredients and nicely complementing dressing, served on the side as requested. For those with a serious bout of Anglo-Saxon home sickness, the creamy mashed potato (US$1.50) is not to be missed. Though not exactly like your mum would make it, the thick mash is not bad considering you are miles from home.

If you’re looking for a more liquid-based meal, pop by the establishment during the daily happy hours between 5pm and 8pm, or again between 11pm and midnight. During these, you can enjoy Angkor draft at US$1 a glass, or US$4 a jug. More sophisticated drinkers might wish to opt for a glass of house wine (US$2.25), while those in search of a hangover will undoubtedly be content with the Mekong whisky and mixer for a dollar.

Though service could be faster and more attentive, Anjali is a comfortable little spot to while the day away, just like the establishment’s slogan suggests.

Anjali Restaurant & Bar, 273 Sisowath Quay, Tel: 012 457 901, Open from 7am until late.