MAWN: The Legendary Cambodian Spot Lives Up to the Hype

Why is it still so cold in mid-May…? Walking back to my car, I passed swaying green trees and daydreamed about warm summer evenings—can’t wait for summer to finally arrive! ☀️ Last night, I tried the famous Cambodian restaurant MAWN, and I’m already itching to book my next visit. First, here are a few tips to score a table: 1. Snag last-minute cancellations on Tock—slots often open up close to the date! 2. Lunch is walk-in only (no reservations needed). 3. Reservations for August and September open on June 1st—mark your calendar! Pro Tips MAWN doesn’t have a phone line, so if you’re running late, email them to let them know—this way, your table won’t be canceled. 😊 Also, we forgot they’re BYOB (bring your own bottle)—total bummer, since wine would’ve paired perfectly with the food! We ordered several dishes, and not a single one missed—the flavors are layered, and the ingredients feel thoughtfully chosen. 🤤 Must-Try Dishes - 🍚 All Star Seafood Fried Rice: The uni (from Maine, I think) was just so-so, but mix it with the fish roe, crab meat, fried rice, and a dash of chili sauce? Chef’s kiss—absolute perfection! - 🦪 Steamed Clams Somlaw Macchu: The broth was so fresh and savory, I wanted to sip every last drop! - 🥬 Prohok Dip: If you don’t like eating raw cabbage, skip this. But I loved it—scraped the plate clean! - 🍗 Crispy Chicken Skin: It feels like it’s mainly for sampling their chili sauce (which you can buy separately)! Super spicy and addictive—warning, it packs a punch 🌶️. - 🍜 Khao Soi: The aroma alone blew me away! If you love noodle dishes, this will make you happy. No heavy, overwhelming seasonings—just rich, natural spices (plus raw onions and coconut milk) for a creamy, flavorful bite. Next Time on My List They were sold out of the whole fish—definitely ordering that and the beef noodle soup on my next visit! 🐟 📍 MAWN: 764 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 #PhillyLife #PhillyFood #PhillyFoodie #FoodDiary #SoutheastAsianCuisine