AsiaLIFE

Tucked down winding lakeside laneways, the Drunken Frog has established itself as one of Phnom Penh’s most popular watering holes for thirsty patrons, since opening in August 2006. Unlike other city bars, which host chic decors or lustful ladies, the Drunken Frog boasts the city’s most friendly barman, Martin Cleary. Words by Charlie Lancaster.

An experienced traveller, Martin washed up on many shores around the world before taking up permanent residence in Cambodia three years ago. In that time his generosity, humour and husky voice have won over everyone he meets. “I love living in Cambodia,” says the man who takes great delight in welcoming new people to his bar and then making their trip to Phnom Penh one to remember.

Made in Yorkshire, this Barnsley bachelor is always quick to offer a top-up, a smile and a heavily-accented, half incomprehensible joke beginning and ending with the words “I say! I say!” A lakeside legend, you only have to mention his name on the strip for a willing hand to point you in his direction.An extension of his personality, the Frog, as it is affectionately known by its regulars, is affable, lively and entertaining.

“We have named several drinks after regulars and all customers are encouraged to leave their mark and sign the bar,” he says of the graffiti covered walls, chairs and bar that don the softly lit rooftop bar. The Frog is split between two floors with the downstairs section being a favourite for the regulars, whose evenings are well documented by a collage of photos overlaying the walls.

Open until the last man collapses, the Frog has over 8,000 songs on iTunes, from which personal playlists can be customised to suit your mood. “Depending on the vibe of the customers, the Frog can easily turn from a chill out den into a makeshift shindig, but it's always a good crack,” says the man responsible for the late night laughs on Lakeside’s only rooftop bar. “We not only serve the coldest beer, but we also have the largest vodka selection on the strip,” says Martin adding that despite price hikes across the city, the price of his drinks has never wavered and a can of beer remains at US$1 and a double vodka and mixer US$1.50.

Quicker with his hand than Clint Eastwood in a spaghetti western and with no set closing hours, the charismatic Liverpool fan will happily serve drinks from 7pm until the sun rises - though if you are drinking the in-house speciality, Martin’s Mule, you may not last that long. Not for the timid, this is one strong drink guaranteed to go down too easily. Held responsible for most missed flights, repeated visa extensions and passing visits to the capital turned into permanent stays, it is Martin’s heart of gold, quick wit and permanent Billy Ray Cyrus stubble that keeps people coming back down the winding lanes and up the yellow-brick-stairs for more. Just ask for Martin.  

Drunken Frog, 20 Street 93 (Boeung Kak Lake), Tel: 012 393 392