Best of Boston

2001 Best Ethnic Restaurant, West

Carambola

The same team that brought use the Elephant Walk’s mix of French-Cambodian fare has been quietly churning out straight, serious, and superlative Cambodian dishes for years in Waltham. Focusing on fish, noodles, rice, and vegetables, the kitchen does wonderse with simple classics like trey dhomrei (sautéed white fish with pineapple, peas, and basil) and curries packed with exotic fresh vegetables. Portions are large, prices are reasonable, and the patient waitstaff will walk neophytes through the finer points of Cambodian cuisine. Between the frescoed, peach-hued walls and geometric, inverted light fixtures, the room hits just the right point between modern and soothing.

663 Main St., Waltham, 781-899-2244,