15th June 2018
Greater Manchester-based Cambodian eatery Angkor Soul, which was given a glowing review by restaurant critic Jay Rayner, has opened a second site, in Altrincham. Angkor Soul, described by Rayner as a “little diamond” when he reviewed its Marple restaurant for The Observer newspaper in October, is the only Cambodian restaurant outside London.
Owner Sok Woodward has now opened a second site in Ashley Road, Altrincham, which was previously occupied by Italian restaurant Scalini. Within three years of its Marple launch Angkor Soul, which also has a vinyl record shop in the basement, was booked out for months in advance.
Woodward said: “I am a bit nervous coming to Altrincham because it’s a bigger place and there is more competition but I’m very happy and excited.”
The menu, which uses lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal and garlic as a base, proved a hit with Rayner. He wrote: “It’s always the grilled pork dumplings, which leak stock with each bite, alongside a few pickles. And then the crispy chicken wings, which seem to have Sichuan peppercorns in the batter and which make my lips tingle and my heart sing. Plus a little bowl of chilli oil for dipping. That’s lunch done for £11 or £12.50 with a tip. God it’s good.”