Meta House Cambodia-German Cultural Center - Vihāra Vipassanā Giriratana
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Meta House Cambodia-German Cultural Center

4.4
·363 reviews·Phnom Penh, Cambodia

A vibrant 3-story cultural center in Phnom Penh featuring free art exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, and a German-Khmer restaurant.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Enjoy art exhibitions

CrowdLow
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Meta House Cambodia-German Cultural Center - Vihāra Vipassanā Giriratana

Meta House Cambodia-German Cultural Center

Best Time

Afternoons

Enjoy art exhibitions

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant 3-story cultural center in Phnom Penh featuring free art exhibitions, film screenings, workshops, and a German-Khmer restaurant.

4.4
(363 reviews)

"A very cool and unexpected art gallery and German restaurant, offering culture and delicious food."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission!

Entry to the art gallery is free, making it a fantastic cultural stop.

📅 Check Event Schedule

They host film festivals, workshops, and live music. Don't miss out on special events!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Rotating Art Exhibitions

Gallery spaces

Discover contemporary Khmer art and installations, often featuring talented local and international artists. Always something new to see!

Film Screenings & Festivals

Film Screenings & Festivals

Screening area

Experience thought-provoking documentaries and films, including local Cambodian cinema and international festivals.

German & Khmer Cuisine

German & Khmer Cuisine

Restaurant/Bar

Savor a unique blend of German classics like currywurst and international dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Art & Culture Hub

Meta House offers free entry to its art exhibitions, making it a budget-friendly cultural experience. It's a great spot for local art, film screenings, and workshops, often featuring Khmer artists. Check their schedule for events.

Beyond the Gallery

This multi-story center isn't just an art gallery; it's a vibrant hub. Enjoy German, American, or Khmer cuisine at the restaurant, catch film screenings, or even experience live music and DJ sets. It's a versatile space for diverse interests.

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy art exhibitions
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Film screenings & bar
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Free Admission!

Entry to the art gallery is free, making it a fantastic cultural stop. Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

They host film festivals, workshops, and live music. Don't miss out on special events! Reddit

🍽️ Diverse Dining Options

Try the German currywurst or explore Khmer and American dishes at the restaurant. Reddit

✨ Unique Atmosphere

The space is described as cozy and chilled, especially in the evenings. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission!

Entry to the art gallery is free, making it a fantastic cultural stop. Reddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

They host film festivals, workshops, and live music. Don't miss out on special events! Reddit

🍽️ Diverse Dining Options

Try the German currywurst or explore Khmer and American dishes at the restaurant. Reddit

✨ Unique Atmosphere

The space is described as cozy and chilled, especially in the evenings. Reddit

🎨 Graffiti Art

Look out for new graffiti artwork being added to the space. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(363 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Meta House is widely praised as a unique cultural hub offering free art exhibitions, thought-provoking film screenings, and a diverse menu with German specialties. Visitors appreciate the relaxed and cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for socializing and experiencing local culture. While some might find the food prices slightly elevated for Phnom Penh, the overall experience is highly regarded.

"Very cool and unexpected art gallery and german restaurant. The gallary is free and linked to the Goethe Institute. They offer german lessions and screen local films - very very cool place!

We got currywurst from the resturant and was a delicious and fancified version of the classic street food. Definitely check out for some culture and food!"

Cameron Jones

"I went there at gallery bar called , Meta house during noon. The atmosphere is cozy and the space is perfectly chilled in the evening. The gallery art studio inside the house features a collection of fancy and premium paintings that make more unique artistic."

Rith Pisey

"Wonderful place to eat, drink, and eat German, American, or Khmer food. They also have an amazing lineup of incredible documentaries, art exhibitions, and question/answer of artists. This is a wonderful place to have an open mic or to plan a large event. There is also an amazing art display inside that is always changing and displaying Khmer artists.

I highly suggest going to this organization....and trying to plan an event there. Sopheak and Nico are incredible owners and always make everyone feel comfortable and at home. There is also dj's that perform and travel internationally to play here. They are also always adding new graffiti artwork, as well."

Micaela El Fattal

What People Like

Free art exhibitions
Diverse cultural events
Cozy and chilled atmosphere

What People Dislike

Food prices can be higher

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Meta House is located in Phnom Penh. You can typically reach it via tuk-tuk or taxi from most parts of the city. It's a well-known cultural center, so drivers should be familiar with the location. Reddit

While direct public bus routes might be limited, tuk-tuks and ride-sharing apps are readily available and offer convenient access to Meta House. Reddit

Using a GPS app on your phone with the address or 'Meta House Cambodia' should guide your tuk-tuk driver effectively. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the art gallery and exhibitions at Meta House are generally free to enter, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially for events. It's best to check their official schedule or social media for the most up-to-date information on gallery and restaurant hours. Reddit

For regular film screenings or festivals, it's advisable to check in advance. Some events might require booking or have a small fee, while others are free. Reddit

Yes, the restaurant and bar are separate from the gallery and can be visited independently. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Meta House features a dynamic collection of contemporary Khmer art, installations, and often hosts exhibitions by both local and international artists. Reddit+1

Yes, Meta House frequently hosts workshops, film festivals, open mic nights, and other cultural events. It's worth checking their schedule. Reddit+1

The art installations and the unique atmosphere of Meta House make it a visually interesting spot for photography. Reddit

Visitors describe the atmosphere as cozy, chilled, and welcoming, especially in the evenings. It's a place that makes people feel comfortable. Reddit+1

While not explicitly stated in all reviews, many cultural centers and restaurants in Phnom Penh offer Wi-Fi. It's likely available, especially in the restaurant/bar area. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Meta House offers a diverse menu including German specialties like currywurst, as well as American and Khmer dishes. Reddit

Reviews suggest the food is delicious, with the currywurst being a standout 'fancified' version of the classic street food. Reddit

They have a bar that serves drinks, and the atmosphere is described as chilled, making it a pleasant place to relax with a beverage. Reddit

Yes, Meta House is suitable for planning large events, and the owners are noted for making guests feel comfortable and at home. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The rotating art exhibitions, unique installations, and the overall ambiance of the gallery and bar areas offer great photo opportunities. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in art galleries, but it's always good practice to check for any specific signage or ask staff if flash photography is permitted. Reddit

Keep an eye out for new graffiti artwork and the ever-changing art displays, which provide dynamic subjects for your photos. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Meta House can be a great outing for families interested in art and culture. The free admission to the galleries makes it an easy choice for a casual visit. While the art itself might vary in its suitability for very young children, the diverse exhibitions can spark curiosity. The restaurant offers a range of food options, including kid-friendly choices, and the relaxed atmosphere means families can feel comfortable. Consider checking the schedule for any family-oriented workshops or film screenings that might be particularly engaging for younger visitors. Reddit+1

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Meta House is a gem. The free entry to its art exhibitions is a significant advantage. You can immerse yourself in local culture and art without spending a dime on admission. For dining, while the restaurant offers a range of options, you can opt for more affordable dishes or simply enjoy the free gallery experience. It's a perfect way to experience Phnom Penh's cultural scene without straining your wallet. Reddit+1

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will find Meta House a compelling destination. The rotating exhibitions ensure there's always something new and exciting to discover, showcasing the vibrant contemporary Khmer art scene. The opportunity to see works by local artists, often reflecting current social and political themes, provides a unique insight into Cambodian perspectives. Don't miss the chance to engage with installations and mixed-media pieces that push artistic boundaries. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Art Scene

Meta House is a cornerstone of Phnom Penh's contemporary art scene. It consistently showcases Khmer artists, providing a platform for their work to reach a wider audience. The exhibitions are dynamic and frequently change, meaning each visit can offer a fresh perspective on Cambodian art and culture. Beyond paintings, expect to see diverse installations and mixed-media pieces that reflect current social and artistic dialogues. Reddit+1

Many visitors highlight the free admission as a major draw, making it an accessible cultural experience for everyone. The center also has ties to the Goethe Institute, suggesting a commitment to fostering cultural exchange. This blend of local talent and international connection makes Meta House a unique and valuable space for art lovers. Reddit

Keep an eye on their schedule for special exhibitions by women artists or thematic showcases that delve into specific socio-political issues, offering deeper insights into Cambodian society through art. Reddit

A Hub for Film and Culture

Meta House extends its cultural offerings beyond visual arts to include a vibrant film screening program. They regularly host documentaries and feature films, often focusing on social and political themes relevant to Cambodia and the wider world. This makes it a crucial venue for engaging with cinematic storytelling and critical discourse. Reddit

The center has also been known to host film festivals, such as the Voices Film Festival, which showcases short films by Cambodian filmmakers and addresses various global issues. These events provide excellent opportunities to discover new talent and engage in post-screening discussions with filmmakers and audiences. Reddit

Beyond art and film, Meta House is a versatile venue that can host workshops, open mic nights, and even DJ performances. Its adaptable space and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular choice for cultural gatherings and events, fostering a strong sense of community. Reddit

Culinary Delights and Socializing

Meta House boasts a restaurant and bar that offers a unique culinary fusion. While it serves Khmer and American dishes, it's particularly noted for its German cuisine, with the currywurst being a highly recommended item. This offers visitors a taste of Germany in the heart of Phnom Penh, described as a delicious and 'fancified' take on the classic street food. Reddit

The atmosphere in the evening is frequently described as cozy and chilled, making it an ideal spot for socializing, enjoying a meal, or simply relaxing with a drink. The bar area is a popular place to unwind after exploring the art exhibitions or attending a film screening. Reddit

Furthermore, Meta House is recognized as a venue capable of hosting large events, and the owners, Sopheak and Nico, are praised for their hospitality, ensuring guests feel comfortable and at home. This makes it a great option for private functions or community gatherings. Reddit

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