Rosewood Phnom Penh proudly announces that Phirun Lek, lead bartender at Sora, has been crowned Cambodia’s Number One Campari Ambassador, earning the opportunity to compete on the international stage in Milan, Italy, on January 21–22, 2026. This recognition not only celebrates Phirun’s exceptional talent but also positions Sora and Cambodia on the global bartending map.

Phirun’s journey is a story of passion, dedication, and rapid growth. Beginning his hospitality career as a waiter in Siem Reap, he quickly discovered a love for mixology while assisting behind the bar. Within just three months at Sora, Phirun’s dedication elevated him from bar back to full-fledged bartender, where his innovative approach and respect for storytelling through cocktails truly shone. His creations often blend personal narratives, from his love of football to incorporating Cambodia’s rich produce, such as the nation’s cherished bananas.

The Campari Ambassador competition is one of the most prestigious platforms in the cocktail world, challenging participants to showcase creativity, technical skill, and the ability to craft memorable experiences in a globally recognized format. Phirun’s win is a significant milestone for Cambodian bartending, demonstrating that local talent can compete and excel on the international stage.

Following the Milan finals, Phirun will continue his international journey with a guest bartender shift at Rosewood Munich on January 24–25, 2026, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience his artistry and the signature Sora touch abroad.

“Phirun’s achievement is a testament to his skill, creativity, and dedication,” said Daniel Simon, Managing Director at Rosewood Phnom Penh. “His success is not only a personal triumph but a moment of pride for Rosewood Phnom Penh. Through Phirun, the world will experience the innovation, passion, and warmth that define Sora and Cambodian heritage.”

Phirun hopes his journey will inspire bartenders in Cambodia to embrace the craft, compete internationally, and share the rich flavors and stories of their homeland with the world. Drawing inspiration from Num Ansom, a traditional Cambodian cake deeply rooted in Khmer heritage since the time of the Khmer Empire, the cocktail tells a story of culture, devotion, and identity. Long associated with Hindu and Buddhist rituals and celebrated during Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben, Num Ansom serves as both a symbolic and sensory foundation for the drink. Built upon the classic Negroni framework, the cocktail bridges tradition with modern mixology: coconut fat-washed gin lends a silky, rounded texture reminiscent of the cake’s creamy richness, sweet jackfruit vermouth adds depth and warmth, while Campari introduces a refined bitterness that brings balance to the composition. Created for an international cocktail competition, the drink reflects Phirun’s passion for expressing his personal heritage on a global stage. “Cocktails allow me to tell stories beyond the glass,” said Phirun Lek. “This creation is my way of sharing Cambodian culture and the flavors that define who I am, while honoring tradition through a modern lens.”

ABOUT ROSEWOOD PHNOM PENH

Rosewood Phnom Penh presents an ultra-luxury hospitality experience in the Cambodian capital. The hotel is located on the top 14 floors of Vattanac Capital Tower in the central business district, with unobstructed views of the city and the fabled Mekong River from its position within the tallest building in the city. Rosewood Phnom Penh embraces the A Sense of Place® philosophy of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts® and reflects the location’s history, culture and sensibilities. It features 175 rooms and suites; five restaurants and lounges, including Sora, a sky bar on a cantilevered terrace; Sense, A Rosewood Spa; a fitness center; a 22-meter indoor lap swimming pool; and meeting facilities that include The Pavilion residential-style meeting and function space.

For more information, please visit https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/phnom-penh

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ABOUT ROSEWOOD

Rosewood is an ever-evolving global collection of hotels, resorts, and residences, born through the discovery of remarkable places. With 42 one-of-a-kind destinations, each property celebrates the culture and community that shapes it, upholding the ideal of hospitality as mutually revitalizing. Every detail is intricately woven to tell the story of the place, offering unexpected moments of discovery and connection. Rosewood Residences extends this spirit, inspiring a life where belonging and curiosity enrich every day.

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