Grilled Bee Larvae Create Buzz in Phnom Penh

Visitors strolling along Phnom Penh’s Chaktomuk Walk Street are finding themselves drawn to an unusual delicacy that is fast becoming a talking point: grilled bee larvae. Once a food largely confined to rural communities, the dish is now making its way into the capital’s vibrant street food scene, offering a rare glimpse into Cambodia’s forest-based culinary traditions.

Sold for around 10,000 riel (£2) per 100 grammes, the larvae are harvested from wild honeybee hives in the north-eastern provinces of Ratanakiri, Mondulkiri and Stung Treng. Local residents collect them from forested and mountainous areas before they are transported to Phnom Penh twice a week, reflecting their limited availability. Vendors say demand can reach up to 10 kilogrammes a day, particularly during the rainy season, when many believe the flavour is richer thanks to the abundance of wildflowers.

Cooked over charcoal, the larvae are offered in several styles, from simple salt and chilli seasoning to marinades with traditional spices. The result is a soft, creamy texture with a mildly salty-sweet taste, enhanced by a smoky fragrance. Some adventurous visitors even request them raw, served with fresh honey.

The growing popularity of grilled bee larvae highlights a wider appetite for authentic culinary experiences in Cambodia. As tourists and locals alike seek flavours beyond conventional street food, ingredients once considered niche are gaining mainstream appeal. Chaktomuk Walk Street, open every weekend along the riverfront, has become a lively hub where food, culture and urban life converge, offering everything from traditional snacks to souvenirs and clothing stalls.

For many, the larvae are more than just a curiosity—they represent a connection to Cambodia’s natural heritage and a reminder that the country’s culinary identity is as diverse as its landscapes. Whether sampled out of curiosity or savoured as a seasonal treat, grilled bee larvae are proving that even the most unexpected dishes can capture the imagination of a city.

-2026-07-09