Sora bartender to showcase Cambodian cocktails on global stage
Phirun Lek, lead bartender at Phnom Penh’s iconic Sora Bar, has been crowned Cambodia’s Number One Campari Ambassador, and is gearing up to compete in Milan, Italy later this week.
The accolade marks a milestone not only for Lek but also for Cambodia’s burgeoning cocktail scene, showcasing local talent on a global platform.
Phirun Lek’s journey into mixology began in Siem Reap, where he worked as a waiter before discovering a passion for crafting cocktails.
Within months of joining Sora, which is located on the rooftop of Rosewood Phnom Penh, he rose from bar back to bartender, developing drinks that blend personal narratives with Cambodia’s rich culinary heritage. Ingredients like Cambodian bananas feature alongside stories inspired by his love of football.
Participants in the Campari Ambassador competition are tested on creativity, technical skill and the ability to craft memorable experiences.
Honouring heritage
Following the Milan finals, Phirun will undertake a guest bartender stint at Rosewood Munich on 24 to 25 January, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience his craft abroad.
“Phirun’s achievement is a testament to his skill, creativity and dedication,” said Daniel Simon, managing director at Rosewood Phnom Penh. “His success is not only a personal triumph but a moment of pride for Rosewood Phnom Penh.
Partner Content
“Through Phirun, the world will experience the innovation, passion and warmth that define Sora and Cambodian heritage.”
Sharing culture through stories
One of Lek’s top cocktails is inspired by Num Ansom, a traditional Cambodian cake dating back to the Khmer Empire, and served during Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben.
Drawing from the classic Negroni, Lek uses coconut fat-washed gin for a creamy texture, jackfruit vermouth adds sweetness, and Campari introduces a refined bitterness.
Created for an international cocktail competition, the drink reflects his zest for expressing his personal heritage on a global stage.
“Cocktails allow me to tell stories beyond the glass,” he said. “This creation is my way of sharing Cambodian culture and the flavours that define who I am, while honouring tradition through a modern lens.”
Lek hopes his success will inspire other Cambodian bartenders to embrace their craft, compete internationally, and showcase the country’s rich flavours and stories on the world stage.
Related news
Optimistic Capital sharpens focus on vinyl-themed microbreweries
