Theary Cambodian Foods — Restaurant in Federal Way

I visited Theary Cambodian Foods recently with high hopes, but unfortunately, the overall experience left much to be desired. Several operational and food quality issues made this a disappointing visit.

Customer Service The cashier was friendly and welcoming, which set a positive tone at the outset. He initially estimated a 20–30 minute wait time, later revising it to 15–20 minutes—but ultimately, we waited a full hour for our food. More accurate estimates of wait time could have helped us decide whether to wait or return later.

Menu & Availability We had come specifically for some of the items listed on their online menu, including noodle dishes and the coconut fried rice. Disappointingly, these were not available at the restaurant. The in-person menu differed significantly from the online one, which led to confusion and unmet expectations.

Order Fulfillment & Food Substitutions We ordered two combo meals, but even after the hour-long wait, one of the key items—meatballs—was not available. They substituted beef skewers at the last minute. Similarly, the sticky rice was replaced with crispy rice without prior notice.

These substitutions were frustrating, especially given how long we had waited and how excited we were to try the original items. It seemed the kitchen could only prepare one order at a time, causing delays not just for us but for the growing line of customers behind us.

Food Quality The best part of the meal was the pickled vegetables, which were bright and flavorful. Unfortunately, the meats were extremely dry, including the beef skewers, leg quarter, and stuffed wing.

Final Thoughts Better kitchen efficiency, accurate wait times, reliable menu availability, and improved food execution are essential if they hope to turn first-time visitors into...

I loved everything about this place from the interaction with the owner and of course the food. I had the combination plate, from the stuffed chicken wing, baked chicken quarter, and the meatballs; everything was just so tasty/flavorful and the presentation for it being a to-go order was beautifully done. I've had Cambodian food all my life but Thearys food knocks it out of the park.

I wish I had her as my mom growing up cause GOODNESS I'd eat at home everyday lol. Just from the aroma radiating through my container, you just know the food was made with a lot of thought, love, and attention.

I loved the pickled veggies, the chili oil and the tamarind sauce is seriously to die for, I'm mourning for the food I cleaned my plate of haha. There aren't many (or any places) that specifically specializes in Cambodian food. I appreciate and 100% support this business cause it's like going back to my childhood. I'm seriously living for Theary's food and highly-HIGHLY recommend.

UPDATE 05/02/25

Wow, I wrote my review for Theary 3 years ago and still stand by it!

I made a small catering order for my birthday recently, I just want to mention Theary’s communication through email and her team at the restaurant excelled!

Highly recommend if you have a potluck or party, the beef sticks & stuffed wings I ordered were a hit. I’m so happy she has her own restaurant and is continuing to thrive and I will definitely come back for future catering orders. Prices are fair, food is consistently amazing without a doubt and the people working...

Walking in, you are greeted by a huge menu on display. This establishment has a small dining area. I would consider it intimate & cozy

Khmer beef skewer-2.99 10/10, the meat was tender and juice and had so much flavor, you can tell they marinated it. It also came embedded on top of a pickled fresh cabbage salad Worth every penny. They also offer a dish with the skewers on rice.

I ordered the combination plate - The rice was delicious, it had a nice crunch to it like fried rice.

The boneless stuffed jumbo wing was stuffed with noodles and aromatic spices.

The meatballs were delicious and had a lemongrass flavor to them. You can tell they were hand rolled.

The coconut quarter chicken had crispy fried skin and could taste the coconut flavor throughout the meat. It was perfectly cooked, and extremely juicy. This dish also came with that delicious cabbage salad and some spicy chili paste known as “demon sauce”. It wasn’t too spicy, it was perfect.

As I was eating she was frying a pan of vegetarian egg rolls for a catering order. This item was not on the menu.

After I finished I stayed and talked to the owner. She was very friendly and accommodating. I will be back to try more of her...