Phnom Penh

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Restaurant in Phnom Penh?

Complete 2025 startup cost guide for opening a restaurant in Phnom Penh, PNH. Get accurate estimates based on local rent, labor, permits, and market conditions.

Lower Cost Market
Cost index: 40% of national average

$3,200

Avg Monthly Rent (2000 sq ft)

$1.25

Minimum Wage/Hour

$1,500

Full Liquor License

2.8

Restaurants per 1,000 People

Startup Costs by Restaurant Type in Phnom Penh

Food Truck

Mobile food service with lower overhead

Range: $71,038 - $245,088
~$158,063avg

Fast Casual

Counter service with fresh, quality food

Range: $316,998 - $3,834,120
~$2,075,559avg

Casual Dining

Full-service restaurant with moderate prices

Range: $638,110 - $7,608,840
~$4,123,475avg

Fine Dining

Upscale restaurant with premium experience

Range: $858,220 - $9,449,640
~$5,153,930avg

Cafe / Coffee Shop

Coffee-focused with light food options

Range: $203,962 - $2,779,032
~$1,491,497avg

Bar / Nightclub

Alcohol-focused venue with entertainment

Range: $413,710 - $6,260,160
~$3,336,935avg

Quick Service (QSR)

Fast food with drive-thru or counter service

Range: $313,280 - $3,264,840
~$1,789,060avg

Ghost Kitchen / Virtual

Delivery-only kitchen with no dine-in

Range: $81,950 - $330,264
~$206,107avg

Sample Cost Breakdown: Casual Dining in Phnom Penh

Based on a 3,000 sq ft restaurant with full liquor service

Real Estate (6 mo rent + deposit)$540,000
Build-out & Construction$108,000
Equipment & Furnishings$348,000
Initial Inventory$37,500
Liquor License$1,500
Pre-opening Expenses$241,400
Working Capital (4 months)$249,600
Contingency (15%)$228,900
Total Estimated Cost$1,754,900

Phnom Penh Restaurant Market Insights

Local Market Tips

  • USD widely accepted as currency
  • Growing expat and tourist market
  • Low startup costs but limited spending power
  • Emerging café and rooftop bar scene
  • Riverside and BKK areas most developed

Popular Cuisines in Phnom Penh

Khmer
French-Cambodian
International
Rooftop Bars
Café
Asian Fusion

Population

2,281,000

Median Income

$4,200

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Key Cost Factors in Phnom Penh

Commercial Rent$8-$55/sq ft
Build-out Cost$15-$80/sq ft
Permit Costs$1,000-$5,000
Beer/Wine License$300
Full Liquor License$1,500
Avg Utilities (1000 sq ft)$400/mo

Opening a Restaurant in Phnom Penh: What You Need to Know

Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh is a below average costs - good value market for restaurant startups. With a population of 2,281,000 and a median household income of $4,200, the market offers 2.8 restaurants per 1,000 residents.

Cost of Living Impact

Restaurant startup costs in Phnom Penh are approximately -60%below the national average. The minimum wage of $1.25/hour significantly impacts labor costs, which typically represent 25-35% of operating expenses.

Key Considerations for Phnom Penh

  • USD widely accepted as currency
  • Growing expat and tourist market
  • Low startup costs but limited spending power
  • Emerging café and rooftop bar scene
  • Riverside and BKK areas most developed

Popular Restaurant Concepts

The most successful cuisine types in Phnom Penh include Khmer, French-Cambodian, International, Rooftop Bars, Café, Asian Fusion. Consider market saturation and competition when choosing your concept.

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