From Sora to Milan: Cambodian Cocktails Step onto the Global Stage

Rosewood Phnom Penh

Cambodia’s vibrant hospitality scene has reached an international milestone as Phirun Lek, lead bartender at Sora Bar in Rosewood Phnom Penh, earns global recognition for his craft. Crowned Cambodia’s Number One Campari Ambassador, Phirun will represent his country in Milan, Italy, on January 21–22, 2026, placing Cambodian mixology firmly in the international spotlight.

A Landmark Win for Cambodian Bartending

The Campari Ambassador competition is among the most respected platforms in the global cocktail industry, celebrating creativity, technical mastery and the ability to deliver compelling guest experiences. Phirun Lek’s national win is a defining moment, not only for his own career but for Cambodia’s growing reputation as an emerging force in world-class bartending.

His victory elevates Sora Bar, perched atop Rosewood Phnom Penh, as a destination for sophisticated cocktail culture, while highlighting the depth of local talent capable of competing on a global stage.

From Siem Reap to Sora: A Journey of Passion

Rosewood Phnom Penh

Phirun’s rise through the hospitality ranks is a story rooted in dedication and curiosity. Beginning his career as a waiter in Siem Reap, he quickly gravitated toward the bar, where assisting with service sparked a passion for mixology. After joining Sora, his commitment and creativity propelled him from bar back to bartender in just three months.

Known for weaving personal stories into his cocktails, Phirun often draws inspiration from Cambodian life and produce, incorporating local ingredients such as bananas and tropical fruits to reflect the flavours of his homeland.

Representing Cambodia in Milan and Beyond

With his sights set on Milan, Phirun will soon present his skills on an international stage where innovation and storytelling are key judging criteria. Following the Milan finals, his journey continues with a guest bartender appearance at Rosewood Munich on January 24–25, 2026, offering European guests a rare opportunity to experience Cambodian-inspired cocktails firsthand.

This international exposure marks a significant step forward for Cambodian bartending, demonstrating its ability to stand alongside the world’s most established cocktail cultures.

A Cocktail Inspired by Khmer Heritage

Rosewood Phnom Penh

At the heart of Phirun’s competition entry is a deeply personal cocktail inspired by Num Ansom, a traditional Cambodian cake with roots stretching back to the Khmer Empire. Long associated with Hindu and Buddhist rituals and celebrated during Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben, Num Ansom symbolises devotion, culture and continuity.

Reimagined through a modern mixology lens, the cocktail is built on a classic Negroni framework. Coconut fat-washed gin delivers a silky texture reminiscent of the cake’s richness, sweet jackfruit vermouth adds warmth and depth, while Campari introduces a balanced bitterness that unites tradition with contemporary flair. The result is a drink that communicates Cambodian identity through flavour.

Putting Cambodian Flavours on the World Map

Phirun hopes his success will inspire a new generation of Cambodian bartenders to pursue excellence, compete internationally and share their stories with the world. Through his craft, global audiences are discovering the richness of Cambodia’s culinary heritage, one cocktail at a time.

As Daniel Simon, Managing Director of Rosewood Phnom Penh, notes, Phirun’s achievement reflects both personal excellence and national pride, showcasing the innovation, warmth and creativity that define Sora Bar and Cambodian hospitality.

Rosewood Phnom Penh

Website: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/phnom-penh
Sora Bar: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/phnom-penh/dining/sora

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