Khmer Bowl — Restaurant in Forest Park

i had an amazing experience at khmer bowl today, sunday, march 9, 2025, from 7:15 pm to 8:00 pm. as someone who was born in cambodia, i really appreciate authentic cambodian flavors, and this place did not disappoint. i ordered the cambodian pho with eye round steak and meatballs, and it was perfect. the broth was rich and flavorful, the meat was tender, and the portion was just right. i also had an aquafina water bottle, which was nice and refreshing.

the service was just as great as the food. the staff was friendly, welcoming, and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. the atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal with family and friends.

the total price for my meal was $13 and some cents, which was very reasonable for the quality and portion size.

if you’re looking for authentic cambodian food, khmer bowl is a must-visit. i’ll definitely be coming back to try more dishes!...

So I got a flat tire right outside of this restaurant around midnight. The owners were inside and saw me struggling, and came out to help me. After helping me change my tire, they invited me for food before I left for home. The food they served was leftover from today’s kitchen and was absolutely incredible. I imagine this restaurant fresh is incredible. I’ll come back for sure. An act of humanity and generosity (and great food)

UPDATE: came back and tried the Salaw Machu Kroeung with beef. Lots of green veggies like green pepper, celery, jalepeno, and a bunch of other stuff including chives. Pretty spicy on its own. It is phenomenal! Sour soup, super hearty portion, includes rice! I also tried the egg rolls. They were amazing. Plenty to take home and still be full. Will come back again. The staff during the day is really...

I swear I'll take better photos next time (this will be my first spot after getting out of the airport and then my last spot to the airport), but my mouth was watering when the prahok ktiss came out and I wanted to dig in it quick. The katiew is exactly how my gramma made it - the first taste of the broth made me tear up. My SO tried Cambodian beef sticks for the first time and he was super impressed. I also had the cha kreung with beef - amaaaazziiing. Yo, even just the plain white rice is cooked to perfection. SO finished his whole bowl of ka tiew and 2 glasses of lemonade. The lemonade slapped too! Everything reminded me of what home was (the food, the atmosphere, even the karaoke). My server was working for free that day and he is the most down to earth human being you'll ever meet. I can't wait to...