AsiaLIFE

They may be a hike to get to, but several of Phnom Penh’s rooftop bars and restaurants are definitely worth it for both the food and the views. Nora Lindstrom gets the bird’s eye view.

Nature & Sea, Corner of St 51 and St 278
Located just opposite Wat Lanka, little Nature & Sea might go completely unnoticed by the average backpacker staying on the Golden Mile. However, this vegetarian-friendly and health-conscious eatery is worth the hike to the top floor of the building. Tasty crepes and galettes (from 11,000 riel) as well as inventively combined shakes (around US$2) are house specialities. All food is free of MSG, preservatives and chemical additives. Where feasible, the ingredients are organically sourced. The view is not stunning, but the cushioned balcony is perfect for whiling away an afternoon. Open 8am-10pm.

The Place, Sihanouk Boulevard
Easily the poshest of Phnom Penh’s rooftop bars, The Place also scores top points for its view. From up on the ninth floor, the capital spreads out below in all four directions as far as the eye can see. The view is especially spectacular in the evening when the Independence Monument is lit up and you can see the park beyond stretching almost all the way to the river. An enclosed rooftop bar is surrounded by outdoor tables and sofas. During the day, a tiny pool and sun loungers are available for use by gym members. Almost inevitably the drinks are not cheap – a can of coke is US$3.50 and a Tiger US$4.50, while the cocktails are slightly better value at US$6 – but the view of Independence Monument lit up at night is worth it. Open 5pm to 2am.

Chow, 277 Sisowath Quay
Skip the downstairs bar at Chow and head straight for the lift. The rooftop here makes for the perfect sunset venue. The view of the Tonle Sap is great and the happy hour drinks (between 4pm-8pm) are amazing value for money. The ambience is classy but fun. During the day, enjoy lunch (US$8) and brunch (US$7) menu deals whilst sheltering from the sun under the canopies. The only downside is the lack of proper lighting during the evenings – particularly if you want to have a good look at your food before venturing further. The rooftop also features sun loungers and a Jacuzzi, mainly for the use of hotel guests though. Open 10am-11pm.

Tamarind, Street 240
A long-time favourite of expats and tourists alike, once you have climbed three flights of stairs, Tamarind’s roof terrace offers an evening retreat from the Penh. Lounge around low tables on cosy pillows subtly screened off by thin curtains, or opt for more traditional seating at the tables closer to the street below. While the view is not breathtaking, the sky is beautiful at dusk and the restaurant is enclosed enough to keep the cold breezes out. Unfortunately the rooftop does not open until 6pm, meaning the pillows aren’t available for lazy afternoons sipping happy hour cocktails. Open 6pm-11pm.

FCC, 363 Sisowath Quay
The view from the FCC rooftop is iconic. Ahead is the Tonle Sap, along the riverfront to the right is the King’s balcony, while the rest of the riverfront spreads to the left. During national festivities, fireworks are often launched from the opposite bank of the Tonle Sap, giving FCC patrons best seats for the spectacle, but alas also the associated loud bangs. It’s a lovely spot at dusk, though be warned, on warm nights seats right on the ledge are much in demand. The rooftop bar is open 4pm-11pm, though the area can also be accessed during the day.

Pacharan, 389 Sisowath Quay
The F’s Iberian younger sister has if anything better views than it’s more famed partner. Although the balcony is narrow, it affords views of the confluence of three rivers – the Tonle, Mekong and Bassac. The ideal spot for drinking a glass of cava or four, especially during the half-price happy hour (4.30pm to 7.30pm), check out the special offers. Currently free tapas accompany every glass of wine, although unfortunately not during the happy hour.

Van’s, 5 Street 102
The rooftop at Van’s is essentially an enlarged balcony, but what a balcony! Overlooking the post office, high chairs are placed along the balustrades while the red-tiled roof of this gorgeous colonial building provides a beautiful backdrop. In the middle, there is a small bar with an indoor-lounging area. The space is ideal for private parties, but regular punters should not overlook this top-end venue – especially during the 5pm-7pm happy hour when cocktails (US$4) are two for one. Opens 5.30pm, closing hours depend on custom.

Master Suki Soup, Sorya Centre
Many are fooled into thinking the view from the skating rink at Sorya Mall is as good as it gets. In fact, by taking the lift a few floors further up to the dome of Master Suki Soup, the view becomes even more spectacular as the city sprawls out below. The soup is cheap and tasty too, however during the cold season the breeze can be a bit too reminiscent of ‘summers’ back home. With a lift going all the way up, the place is worth a visit even during a shopping trip to the mall, particularly for the unparalleled view over Central Market.