5 Awesome Speakeasies in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Some of Phnom Penh’s top drinking spots are tucked away in the network of hidden alleys that sit off the main tourist trail. Ranging from traditional-style drinking dens to more discrete supping spots, here are five awesome speakeasies in the Cambodian capital.
BattBong
Bar, Asian
Unless you’re in the know, then it’s easy to miss BattBong as its entrance is disguised as a Coca Cola machine sitting on the lane off Street 51, near Wat Langka. Walk inside and you’ll discover a sophisticated, cavernous speakeasy that serves up stylish cocktails to match its ambience. Vintage items dot the space, which is popular with the young and cool Khmer crowd.
Long After Dark
Bar, Asian, European, Fusion
When Long After Dark opened its doors in 2016, it kick-started the hipster trend that is currently taking Toul Tom Poung by storm. The intimate two-storey, speakeasy-style bar is stocked full of whiskey, craft beers, cocktails and wine, with food also served. This is definitely one of the stylish places to be seen in the Russian Market area, with chilled beats providing the backdrop in the evenings.
Back Street Bar
Bar, Asian
This may not fit entirely into the “speakeasy” category but deserves a mention for its off-the-beaten-track location. Hidden in a small alley that cuts between Street 9 and Sothearos Boulevard, next to Phsar Kapko, this casual watering hole’s intimate space adds to its charm. Look out for the hanging fairy lights and umbrellas along the narrow lane to find the bar.
est. bar
Bar, Asian, Fusion
This tucked-away cocktail bar and wine supper club brings a slice of secret sophistication to Phnom Penh. With two floors home to chairs and tables and separate seating, as well as a small outdoor terrace, the bar is stocked full of a range of top quality spirits and whiskeys, wine, champagne and beers. A range of tapas and share plates are also served in this modern setting.
Underground Speakeasy Bar
Bar, Asian
Bassac Lane is the capital’s most bustling back alley. Tucked away off Street 308, it is home to a collection of quirky bars, with this intimate affair adapting the speakeasy style – the entrance is a red English phone box. It boasts an extensive drinks menu that takes in a range of whiskeys, cocktails, premium spirits, wine and liqueurs, all served in a moody and ambient setting.