So-named because of the prevalence of items from the Eastern Bloc in past times, the Toul Tom Poung Market today is a treasure trove for tourists. Particular items worth seeking out include CDs, fabrics, jewelry, carved handicrafts and ceramics. There are also a large number of clothing outlets and on site tailors and seamstresses can make alteration quickly. The food and drinks stalls are a good place to take a refreshment break between the bargaining.
The Toul Thom Poung area is a largely residential part of town centered on Wat Toul Tom Poung and Phsar Toul Tom Poung, a traditional Cambodian market in the southern part of town, also known as the ‘Russian Market.’
The market itself is probably the most popular traditional market in Phnom Penh for visitors, and the surrounding Tuol Tom Poung area is dotted with a gradually increasing number of visitor oriented businesses – restaurants, cafes, bars, souvenir shops, hotels and apartments.
The blocks immediately around the market are congested with traffic and a bit difficult to walk but just a block away the streets are mostly a quieter mix of residences and small businesses, including a few interesting little eateries such as the Alma Cafe, Cafe Yejj and Eleven One. Housing in the Tuol Tom Poung area is a bit less expensive than town center and the area is becoming more popular with expats. In fact, if you are looking for a place, there are quite a few ‘For Rent’ signs on houses around the area, especially south of the market.