A Legendary Phnom Penh Bar Earns Global Recognition
In a major win for Cambodia’s luxury hospitality scene, the iconic Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel Le Royal has officially been named one of the world’s “Best Global Hotel Bars” by Food & Wine. The prestigious recognition places the historic Phnom Penh venue among only 10 hotel bars worldwide to receive the honour in the magazine’s May 2026 issue.
Known for its timeless French colonial atmosphere, world-class cocktails and rich cultural heritage, Elephant Bar continues to attract sophisticated travellers and cocktail enthusiasts from across the globe.
An Iconic Bar in the Heart of Phnom Penh
Located inside the historic Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Elephant Bar has long been considered one of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated hotel bars. Its elegant interiors feature polished wood panelling, vintage photographs, colourful ceiling frescoes and luxurious wicker and leather seating, all framed by towering French windows and graceful arched colonnades.
The venue beautifully captures the charm of a bygone era while maintaining a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that continues to define luxury hospitality in Cambodia.
A Rich Legacy of Famous Guests and Signature Cocktails
For more than 90 years, Elephant Bar has welcomed royalty, celebrities, diplomats and global icons. Legendary figures such as Charlie Chaplin, Charles de Gaulle and Jacqueline Kennedy have all visited the iconic venue during their travels through Cambodia.
One of the bar’s most famous moments came during Jacqueline Kennedy’s 1967 visit to Phnom Penh, when she enjoyed the very first “Femme Fatale” cocktail — a signature drink that remains a guest favourite to this day.
According to Dagmar Lyons, General Manager of Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the recognition reflects the bar’s enduring legacy and commitment to exceptional hospitality.
She described the award as a tremendous honour, highlighting Elephant Bar as the heart and soul of the historic hotel, where guests continue to experience old-world sophistication blended with authentic Cambodian warmth.
One of Southeast Asia’s Finest Gin Collections
Beyond its historic charm, Elephant Bar is also renowned for its extraordinary gin selection. The bar houses more than 200 carefully curated gin labels, making it one of Southeast Asia’s premier destinations for gin lovers.
Highlights include the exclusive Sipsmith Raffles 1915 gin as well as the hotel’s own locally crafted Elephant Bar Gin. Guests can also enjoy an extensive menu of handcrafted cocktails, premium spirits and sophisticated mocktails designed to elevate the overall drinking experience.
One of the venue’s standout experiences is the popular “Elephant Bar Gin Experience,” offering guests unlimited gin cocktails and curated gin tastings over a two-hour session.
Raffles Continues Its Legacy of Luxury Hospitality
The recognition from Food & Wine further strengthens the global reputation of Raffles Hotels & Resorts, a hospitality brand synonymous with elegance, heritage and legendary service.
Since the opening of Raffles Singapore in 1887, the brand has become known worldwide for pioneering luxury experiences, including the introduction of private butler service and the famous Singapore Sling cocktail.
Today, Raffles properties can be found in prestigious destinations including Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw and the Seychelles, continuing the brand’s tradition of delivering unforgettable luxury experiences around the world.
Why Elephant Bar Deserves a Spot on Every Luxury Traveller’s List
For travellers visiting Cambodia, Elephant Bar offers far more than just cocktails. It delivers a rare opportunity to experience history, culture and timeless elegance in one unforgettable setting.
Whether guests come for the legendary Femme Fatale cocktail, the extensive gin collection or simply to soak in the colonial-era ambience, Elephant Bar remains one of Asia’s most iconic hospitality experiences — and now officially one of the best hotel bars in the world.
For more details, visit Raffles Hotel Le Royal Official Website
