The Toul Tom Poung neighbourhood of Phnom Penh has been on the rise for the last few years, and the growing number of bars is evidence of its progress. Here are the 10 best bars to visit in the area commonly referred to as Russian Market.
This stylish hangout kick-started the hipster trend that is sweeping across Toul Tom Poung. The intimate two-floor bar is stocked full of whisky, craft beers, cocktails and wines, with food also served including toasties, starters and mains. A stylish place to be seen, with chilled beats in the background in the evenings.
Boasting a wide selection of craft brews on draft, Alchemy Gastropub is one of Toul Tom Poung’s hippest nightspots. With a vast cocktail menu and food options to boot, the venue features two outdoor terraces and a large indoor space. At weekends, bands and DJs keep the atmosphere alive into the early hours.
The second venture from the masterminds behind Long After Dark is Sundown Social Club, which injects a taste of Miami into the Cambodian capital. With a whole host of tiki cocktails, snacks, cider, real ales, wines and spirits on offer, Sundown Social Club exudes a totally different vibe to its sister on the other side of Russian Market. With a prime location overlooking the tin roofs of Russian Market, this is – as the name suggests – a great spot for sundowners.
Nestled in what is set to become Toul Tom Poung’s version of Bassac Lane is La Pétanque Bar. French-owned, the bar is a casual affair that is the capital’s first bar where guests can enjoy a game of pétanque – a form of boules – for free. There is also a pool table at the venue, as well as outdoor and sheltered seating.
A relatively recent addition to Toul Tom Poung’s rising collection of bars, O’ Tapas is also situated on the upcoming back street off Street 155. The clue is in the title and the bar / diner specialises in tasty tapas, barbecued meats and drinks. Spread across two floors, this spot is a great place to relax with friends over some small bites and drinks.
TINI may be an intimate space but it comes with heaps of hip casual style, and it serves great coffee to boot. With a few tables and chairs inside and small leafy terrace to the front, TINI also sells a selection of quirky local art, which is showcased on its walls.
Set in the Toul Tom Poung area of Phnom Penh, Lot 369 boasts a spacious outdoor terrace as well as indoor AC space. Its menu includes a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including the vegan breakfast bowl, Buddha bowl and vegan chocolate cheesecake.
Unless you’re 100% set on getting a tattoo and there’s no danger of having a few too many and indulging in a drunk inking you’ll regret the next day, then hanging at rock ‘n’ roll-themed pub Ink & Drink is a good way to spend your night. A happy hour runs from 2pm to 5pm on select drinks.
While Elly’s Bar & Grill focuses on food, it’s a great place for a tipple or two. Most weekends, live music can be found at the laid-back venue. Seafood buffets put in a frequent appearance, with a range of other dishes on the menu.
As a relatively new contender to Toul Tom Poung’s swelling collection of eateries, Agave Cocina specialises in authentic Mexican cuisine. And when we say authentic, we mean authentic. A range of premium tequilas are also served for those wanting to enjoy a drink.