New Hope’s Training Restaurant was established in July 2010 with the aim of teaching unemployed/uneducated Khmers valuable cooking and hospitality skills, and developing their confidence and employment opportunities.
This Cambodian social enterprise is located a bit off of the main path in Siem Reap but it’s a popular spot for those looking for a delicious and well-priced meal. It’s easy to visit New Hope to fuel up after a day of visiting Angkor Wat.
How & Why You Should Visit New Hope Cambodia
You’ll enjoy high quality food—many guests claim they ate their favorite meal in all of Cambodia at New Hope. Although it’s a training restaurant, the standards are top-notch. It’s a clean, friendly place that serves large portions of local Khmer food in a way Westerners in particular will enjoy.
It also offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten free eats.
New Hope operates as a social enterprise. That means it offers travelers an incredible meal in Siem Reap, and money generated from the restaurant goes directly to fund the community’s education program, health clinic, and agricultural projects.
The place gets quite busy, so make a reservation if you have your heart set on dinner in particular. The fish amok generally receives rave reviews. More details here.
The Social Enterprise Aspect of New Hope Cambodia
Situated within Siem Reap, New Hope Cambodia serves as a dedicated institution for the families of Mondul Bei Village. This NGO’s core objective revolves around providing accessible education, healthcare, and a sense of community solidarity.
Focused primarily on young children and adolescents, the organization aims to offer them a chance at a better future despite their challenging backgrounds.
The school’s emphasis is not solely on education but also on sowing the seeds of optimism and nurturing practical skills in its students. By equipping them with knowledge and abilities, New Hope Cambodia strives to create opportunities that can lead not only to personal advancement but also to the betterment of their families’ circumstances.
Beyond the academic realm, the organization also takes on the role of a reliable support system. This includes ensuring access to healthcare services to maintain the students’ overall well-being.
Moreover, the community framework provides a safety net that offers assistance during times of difficulty. New Hope Cambodia recognizes that a holistic approach is essential; thus, it stands by its students in various aspects of life.
New Hope Cambodia stands as an institution of growth and transformation. It offers a space where futures can be reshaped and ambitions can be fostered, contributing to a shift away from the cycle of poverty.
Additional Ways to Support This Social Enterprise
If you have time and skills to lend, you can volunteer at New Hope Cambodia. The organization also offers several ways to sponsor a student or a restaurant trainee.