AsiaLIFE

Nestled inside Naga Casino this watering hole boasts premium glamour in plush surroundings,including some of Cambodia’s most beautiful women. Words by Kate Liana.

Upon entering the new, posh Darlin Darlin the plush carpet sinks under your feet as you make your way through the curtains to the various VIP sections, the dance floor is a polished, wooden square where the two lead singers of the house band strut and practice their dance moves for the evening's performance. It may be a nightclub, but entertainment and leisure are serious stuff here.

"I want to create a fantasy," says Sapor, the fervent public relations consultant at Naga. "People should feel like they're somewhere special, somewhere glamorous." She and Sokunthea, the PR manager say they want to make a club where everyone feels comfortable, but there is a dress code and prices reflect an exclusive atmosphere.

So how to stand out amongst the cities tonier clubs, which are growing in number? The first thing they are eager to point out is that managers keep close watch over the club and discourage any inappropriate behaviour. Keeping in line with the idea of fantasy, all of the waitresses are models from Sapor's agency. This makes it closer in line to exclusive clubs in the West, where you must submit a headshot to be granted an interview.

When asked how she feels about the relaunch of Pontoon in their back yard, she expresses her excitement "People used to go between Riverhouse and Pontoon. Now they'll go from Pontoon to here," says Sapor. "It can only be good for business." Indeed, capturing a small market flooded with choices can be difficult, but they believe Darlin Darlin stands out from the pack. They offer valet parking, European bottle service, and bartenders who juggle, Hollywood-style. Add theme parties, fashion shows, dance competitions, and performances by the waitresses, all in an effort to offer something unique. The moneyed crowd has a new clubhouse, and Sapor and her team are gambling that it will be a hit. "This is a premium club for a premium crowd," she says. "There is no place out there like it."