The Fishmarket Restaurant in Kampot Closes its Doors

It’s the end of an era as iconic The Fishmarket Restaurant in Kampot announces it will open its doors to customers for the last time on August 14.

The Fishmarket Restaurant in Kampot has cemented itself as somewhat of an institution since opening in the riverine town in 2016.

The History of the Fishmarket

Embodying old and new, the renovated building today stands as an icon on Preaek Tuek Chhu River. The original building – a French-designed fish market – dates back to the 1940s and pays testament to Kampot’s thriving fishing industry.

The civil war and ensuing brutal four-year Khmer Rouge reign from 1975 to 1979 left Kampot, along with the rest of the country, destroyed. As the town started to rebuild itself, the building served as the Provincial Customs House until the 1990s.

However, the building was snapped up by private investors and embarked on a new notorious life as Alaska nightclub. This was short-lived, and after a two-year stint the building was abandoned and put back on the market. However, it had garnered a bad reputation and few investors came forward.

That was until the building was thrown a lifeline when an Australian expat saw an image of the original structure and decided to restore it to its former glory. He transformed it into the iconic restaurant and bar that stands today.

In 2016, it opened as the stylish restaurant that stands today. Since opening, The Fishmarket Restaurant in Kampot has drawn scores of people to enjoy a craft cocktail overlooking the river or savour divine seafood dishes.

End of An Era

After a successful seven-year stint, on August 7, the restaurant announced it will close on August 14.  In a post on its official Facebook page, it said, “Over the years, The Fishmarket has become a beloved spot for food lovers, creating cherished memories and serving delectable dishes.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support and love we have received from our loyal customers, but it’s time for a new chapter in the colourful history of Kampot Fishmarket.”

The next chapter in the building’s history, for now, remains to be seen. But in the meantime, if you happen to be in Kampot before August 14, then The Fishmarket is offering a 30 percent discount on its whole menu.