AsiaLIFE

A new location, a slick look and the same great fish tacos. Craig Gerard sits down with owner Jim Heston.

“I’m a working stiff,” Jim Heston claims. His newly renovated California 2 on the north end of the Riverfront has kept him busy over the past year. He and the bar manager personally constructed much of the woodwork in the sleek new pub. “I haven’t had a day off in six months,” laments Jim, “I just don’t want to lose the momentum.”  His momentum has him rolling through a typical day that starts at noon, and usually doesn’t finish until 3am. Long days are normal for anyone owning a 24-hour bar and guesthouse.  Add in a new partnership at Sharky’s, and the days are very long and very busy. But Jim is not complaining. “I enjoy what I do,” he says. “It’s all about making great connections between my clients.”

For his new location Jim saw the property formerly known as the Woolly Rhino at 79 Sisowatch Quay as having potential for attracting both tourists and expats. “When we closed for renovation, I wanted to come back stronger than before,” Jim states.  “People now expect more. California 2 has always been a place for good value, and we still provide that.”

No 24-hour establishment would be complete without some munchies, and California 2 comes through with some solid bar cuisine. The establishment has always been famous for its Fish Tacos, which Jim claims he brought to Cambodia.

A glimpse behind the bar reveals a well-stocked collection of bottles. The cocktail menu is the same – nothing fancy, just the basics.  And while you won’t find organic fruit infused martinis with essence of homemade bitters, California 2 does stock all top-shelf brands. So when you order a gin and tonic, the bartender reaches for the Bombay Sapphire, not a cheap hangover-inducing replacement. It is all part of the solid value that Jim provides to all of his clients. With strong cocktails and US$0.75 ice-cold beers, it is no wonder California 2 has a history of success.

California 2, 79 Sisowath Quay, Tel: 077 503 144