Bar Trends 2023 - CAMBODIA

Around the world, some bars in 2023 saw a resurgance, and for others it has been a different story. In Cambodia, we are anxiously waiting for the pre-covid crowds to return. In the meantime, our community have been challenged to think outside the box. This test has created a trend within the Food and Beverage outlets to get intimate and competitive — introducing new activations for local bar enthusiast, challenging their staff with education, and bringing a higher craft to a budding bar scene. 

“Despite the hard times, we saw a light”

For one, our team saw an overwhelming influence from the international bar scene. Led by Bob Louison, Rosewood has brought in over a dozen international bar professionals, who are sharing their talents with their staff and locals. The move has also created opportunites for local distributors to particpate, and showcase their craft brands. In addition, Bob has taken the Rosewood team international, presenting the talents of the local bartenders with counties like Singapore and Thailand. 

In early 2023, we also witnessed the first Top 30 bar awards. A 6 month competition, where judges from around the world visited local bars, hearing their stories and trying the cocktails. The closing ceremony put the entire bar community in the same room where we celebrated our victories and embraced Cambodia's fist large bar event.  

Over the year, The influence has spread throughout the bars. Conversations about craft spirits has been easier, and the balance of cocktails taken fire. The locals are enjoying spirits from around the world, and taking a variety of new flavors. Despite the hard times, we saw a light this year, it really felt the the beginning of a new beginning of experimentation and activities for the locals and the F&B community. We are looking forward to a dynamic 2024.