An exquisite cocktail, steeped in heritage, transports the essence of Cambodian culture from the vibrant streets of Phnom Penh to the sophisticated ambiance of Milan. Phirun Lek’s journey signifies a pivotal chapter in the world of global mixology.
Perched high above the vibrant streets of Phnom Penh, within the sleek confines of Vattanac Capital Tower, a subtle yet profound cultural transformation unfolds, as the majestic Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers flow gracefully beneath a canopy of glass and steel. It unfolds quietly, devoid of ostentation and unburdened by extravagance. Rather, it reveals itself through the artistry of craftsmanship, the virtue of patience, and the elegance of narrative.
At the heart of this extraordinary moment is Phirun Lek, the esteemed lead barman at Sora, whose accolade as Cambodia’s premier Campari Ambassador heralds a transformative era for Cambodian hospitality on the international scene.
Phirun’s foray into the art of mixology commenced far from the confines of a bar. It began on the vibrant restaurant floor of Siem Reap, where he served as a waiter, elegantly absorbing the intricate rhythms of hospitality from the sidelines. His foray into the art of cocktail crafting unfolded organically, a journey moulded by the hours spent in the intimate embrace of the bar rather than a pursuit of formal aspirations. A captivating exploration unfolded, revealing how beverages possess the remarkable ability to convey emotion, evoke memory, and transport us to distinct places.
That insatiable curiosity has elegantly settled at Sora, the exquisite rooftop bar perched atop the Rosewood Phnom Penh. In a mere three months since joining the team, Phirun has ascended from bar back to the esteemed role of full barman, showcasing an impressive blend of technical skill and artistic finesse. At Sora, his approach transformed into a uniquely personal expression.
Cocktails transformed into exquisite narrative vessels, artfully reflecting facets of his own life, including his passion for football and his deep appreciation for Cambodian produce like bananas, an ingredient intricately interlaced within the rich tapestry of the country’s culinary heritage.
This narrative-driven philosophy found its most exquisite embodiment in the cocktail that earned him the prestigious title of Campari Ambassador. Drawing from the rich heritage of Num Ansom, a traditional Cambodian delicacy that harks back to the illustrious Khmer Empire, this beverage is steeped in ritual and cultural reminiscence. Num Ansom has been intricately woven into the rich tapestry of Hindu and Buddhist traditions, holding a place of prominence in the vibrant celebrations of Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben. It embodies profound themes of devotion, continuity, and identity, resonating deeply within the cultural heritage.
Instead of striving to mimic the cake's flavours in a conventional manner, Phirun elegantly transformed its essence into a captivating structure. Rooted in the timeless elegance of the Negroni, this cocktail artfully intertwines tradition with a refreshing twist of modernity.
The infusion of coconut fat-washed gin bestows a sumptuous, velvety texture that echoes the cake’s indulgent creaminess. The sweet allure of jackfruit vermouth envelops the palate with warmth and depth, while the distinctive bitterness of Campari elegantly introduces clarity and balance to the experience. The outcome is both composed and expressive, crafted not for mere novelty but for profound resonance.
The Campari Ambassador competition stands as a pinnacle in the realm of modern bartending, a true testament to the artistry and precision required in this craft. It challenges participants to showcase their creativity and technical prowess while curating unforgettable experiences within a prestigious and internationally acclaimed framework. Phirun’s triumph marks a significant milestone, not just in his illustrious career but for the Cambodian bartending scene at large, showcasing that local talent can indeed hold its own with poise on the global stage.
That confidence is poised to embark on a journey. In January 2026, Phirun will grace the vibrant scene of Milan with his competitive flair, soon after making a distinguished guest barman appearance at the exquisite Rosewood Munich. These exquisite moments amplify Sora’s influence, inviting international audiences to experience the rich tapestry of Cambodian storytelling through a captivating lens.
For Rosewood Phnom Penh, this accolade beautifully underscores its commitment to serving as a distinguished platform for local talent. In the words of Managing Director Daniel Simon, Phirun’s remarkable success embodies the innovation, warmth, and rich cultural tapestry that characterise both Sora and the broader Cambodian hospitality landscape.
In a time when true luxury embraces authenticity rather than mere extravagance, the ascent of Phirun Lek presents a subtle yet compelling declaration. The essence of Cambodian culture, articulated with both intention and reverence, deserves not to linger on the periphery of global mixology but to take its rightful place at the very heart of it.
a. Vattanac Capital Tower, ផ្លូវឡើងជំហៀង, 66 Level 37, 12202, Cambodia
e. phnompenh.fnbreservation@rosewoodhotels.com
w. www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/phnom-penh/dining/sora
fb. www.facebook.com/RosewoodPhnomPenh
