Bringing a taste of Cambodia home
A real taste of home has followed Chenda Pov halfway across the globe from banking in Cambodia to a restaurant in Taradale
Chenda moved to New Zealand in 2012 to be with his wife, and says a love of food led him to where he is today.
“I am the cook in my family. I cook for my family and my wife everyday. My mother taught me her recipes over the years and her techniques in the kitchen. I studied Cambodian cuisine alongside working and I am a qualified chef,” Chenda says. Opening Hawke’s Bay’s first Cambodian restaurant a couple of weeks ago was a no-brainer.
“I would like to share my culture and food with Napier.” Chenda describes Khmer Kitchen, in the Taradale shopping precinct, as a taste of home.
“Everything you can think of to eat for breakfast, brunch and lunch in Cambodia, we have here — fresh ingredients made to order.” Khmer is the name for Cambodian people so the name was easy. All dishes have been kept close to original recipes. Pania
“We may need to change some to suit as we get feedback from customers. But we would like to keep it as close to original recipes as we can.”
Chenda’s family help out when it gets busy. “We make to order, so we can make according to dietary restrictions.”
■ Khmer Kitchen, 262 Gloucester St, Taradale. Phone 845 4012.