Crossed Cocktails: Siem Reap's Elephant Bar and Manila's Long Bar Swap Shakers

Two of Southeast Asia's most iconic hotel bars are joining forces this summer for a project as rare as it is bold: sending their finest bartenders across borders, shaker in hand.

Nisha, the dedicated Gin Butler at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor

Siem Reap, Cambodia — The Elephant Bar at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor and the Long Bar at Raffles Makati in Manila have announced a new exchange series titled "Philippines to Cambodia x Cambodia to Philippines." Two events, two capitals, one shared goal: bringing Cambodian and Filipino cocktail cultures into dialogue through the artistry of their leading bartenders.

The initiative is being held in partnership with several renowned spirits houses, including Maison Ferrand, Moonshine Cambodia, Citadelle and Planteray.

Act One in Siem Reap: The Long Bar Comes to the Elephant Bar

The series kicks off on July 18, when Kristian Torres, head bartender at the legendary Long Bar at Raffles Makati, takes over the iconic Elephant Bar at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor in Siem Reap. Known for his technical precision and narrative-driven creations, Torres will reimagine classic cocktails through vibrant Filipino flavours and Philippine-inspired ingredients.

Act Two in Manila: Cambodia Answers the Call

The exchange continues on August 14 in Manila, where the Elephant Bar team takes over the Long Bar at Raffles Makati. Leading the evening is Nisha, the dedicated Gin Butler at Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor, whose deep expertise in gin, creative mixology and passion for Cambodian heritage have earned her national recognition, including a finalist placement in the 2025 Campari Red Hands Cambodia Competition.

In Manila, Nisha will present a series of gin-based cocktails woven together from Cambodian traditions, local ingredients and Maison Ferrand spirits, carrying the distinctive character and storytelling of the Elephant Bar all the way to the Philippines.

"It is an honour to represent Elephant Bar and Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor at Raffles Makati," says Nisha. "Through gin and the rich flavours of Cambodia, I look forward to creating moments that connect our two vibrant cultures — one cocktail at a time."

"Berry Suspicious": A Cambodian Signature Travels Abroad

Among the creations Nisha will bring to Manila audiences is her signature cocktail, the "Berry Suspicious," made with Citadelle rouge gin, crème de fraise, Kampot pepper syrup — a Cambodian specialty — strawberry and basil purée, and a touch of "magic" foam. A small surprise also awaits guests on the night.

A Bridge Between Two Traditions, Under the Raffles Banner

Beyond the two bartenders' performances, this exchange series celebrates the shared legacy of Raffles properties while spotlighting the distinct drinking cultures of Cambodia and the Philippines, elevated by the craftsmanship of Maison Ferrand and its partners. According to Raffles, the collaboration also reflects a broader ambition to strengthen ties between its luxury properties across the region and to build shared experiences between bar teams.

Founded in 1887 with the opening of Raffles Singapore, the brand is now present in a string of leading cities and destinations worldwide, from Paris to Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw and the Seychelles. Raffles is part of Accor.

Good to know

For more information on Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor, or to make a booking, call +855 23 982 598 or visit www.raffles.com/siem-reap/.