Did you know there are plenty of bars in Phnom Penh? If you’re planning a visit to the capital city, these are the ones you must drop by.
No one would guess Phnom Penh’s nightlife scene is thriving, us included. But surprise, surprise – there are plenty of drinking spots here to rival Singapore’s watering holes! Here are the top bars in Phnom Penh you should visit for a cocktail or two.
8 fabulous bars in Phnom Penh for a tipple
1. Mawsim
This bar is the definition of a hidden speakeasy. You have to make your way to a dilapidated building (yes, we understand if you think this reeks of a horror movie scenario) and climb up the dimly-lit stairs. Warning: be careful not to step on pee! Turn right on the second floor, and you’ll come face to face with Mawsim, which means season in Arabic. This Japanese watering hole’s gin is made in-house from water hyacinths and mixed with local botanicals. We truly enjoyed the tropical citrus gin; it went well with the orange fizz, giving it a tarty-sweet flavour profile.
Mawsim, #133E1 Street 108, Sangkat Sras Chhork, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh 120210, Cambodia
2. Sundown Social Club
Drinks with a view? Yes, please. This tropical-themed rooftop bar, which overlooks the Russian Market, is the perfect place to chill out and enjoy a cocktail pitcher while admiring the sunset. It might make you forget you’re in a bustling city! The drinks are inspired by Miami Vice – think banana daiquiris, pina coladas, and mai tais. Pair your tipples with grub such as the falafel dog, which we hear is to die for.
Sundown Social Club, #86 Street 440, Russian Market, Phnom Penh 12310, Cambodia
3. Bar Odin
Whiskey lovers, we know an authentic Japanese bar you should visit in Phnom Penh. The shelves behind the bar counter are lined with bottles of rare whiskey, bourbon, and cognac. We’re told some spirits come from breweries that are no longer operating! While you’re here, strike up a conversation with the manager, who declares himself a “whiskey otaku”. He’ll regale you with his knowledge of the rare selection and recommend what you should sip on. Psst: sushi and cigars are also available if you really want to live it up. Trust us, this is one hidden gem you shouldn’t miss.
Bar Odin, #50 Street 306, BKK1 Chomkarmorn, Phnom Penh 08860, Cambodia
4. Prei
Don’t be fooled by the exterior: it may look like a liquor store, but it’s all a front. Behind it lies Prei, an elegant bar adorned with vintage Cambodian posters and records. It offers the largest craft cocktail menu, including classics you know and love, signature drinks, and bespoke cocktails. You can also find a good selection of bar bites such as truffle mac and cheese, fish and chips, and mini burgers.
Prei, #15 Street 214, Sangkat Boeung Riang, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh 12211, Cambodia
5. Sora
Spot the cantilevered terrace atop the Vattanac Capital Tower? That’s Sora, Rosewood Phnom Penh’s rooftop bar. Unwind with a glass of champagne as you watch the sun go down in Cambodia’s capital. If you prefer going indoors, the space is tastefully decorated in dark woods and plush leather seats; it’s a sublime setting for date night drinks. The drinks menu, The Book of Yokai, is inspired by Japanese folklore. There are 12 cocktails to choose from, including non-alcoholic options. If you ask us, we’re a big fan of the citrusy-sweet Sora .75, which reminds us of a mimosa.
Sora, Level 37, Rosewood Phnom Penh, Vattanac Capital Tower, 66 Monivong Boulevard, Sangkat Wat Phnom, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh 120211, Cambodia
6. Samai Distillery
Samai typically operates as a distillery, crafting premium rum for everyone’s enjoyment. However, those in the know will head down on Thursday nights, when it runs a bar. The distillery’s wooden barrels and moody lighting lend themselves perfectly to the occasion, turning the space into a hip drinking establishment that you should visit at least once. Bop your head to the deejay spinning near the entry while you nurse your tipple. Guest bartenders will be around some nights to present their concoctions for the crowd to sample.
Samai Distillery, #9B Street 830, 830 Samdach Sothearos Boulevard, Phnom Penh 12301, Cambodia
7. Whisky Library
If you think Rosewood Phnom Penh only has one bar, think again. Whisky Library is an intimate, sophisticated space with the widest selection of single malt whiskeys. Like Sora, the menu also pays tribute to Japanese mythology, particularly the country’s five legendary swords. Be sure to order The Imperial, a light and earthy tipple which pairs Scottish whiskey with Campari, dry figs, and ponzu. In this elegant space, you can easily pretend you’re in a vintage Hollywood film.
Whisky Library, Level 37, Rosewood Phnom Penh, Vattanac Capital Tower, 66 Monivong Boulevard, Sangkat Wat Phnom, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh 120211, Cambodia
8. Bassac Lane
This may be a cop-out, but hear us out: if you can’t decide which bar to visit, just drop by this trendy enclave in Phnom Penh. There are cool drinking spots for your consideration, such as the biker-themed Hangar 44, daiquiri bar The Library, and Backstreet Bar, which features a raised deck over an empty swimming pool. The fun thing about this area is that if you’re bored of one bar, you can dip out and quickly walk over to the next one! Feeling peckish after a long night of drinking? There are plenty of eateries to fill your stomach.
Bassac Lane, Street 308, Tonle Bassac, Phnom Penh 120101, Cambodia
Enjoy your boozy bender at these bars in Phnom Penh!
