Last Thursday, Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra and Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort unveiled the Haute Croissanterie, a creative concept of original flavours created by talented chefs Aymeric Bellet, Driss Helali, Van Phannaret, Éric Berrigaud and their teams.
An original and highly artistic gastronomic event attended by local journalists, who were overjoyed to discover this latest addition in the hotel's lounges. The display was so artistic that journalists were somewhat hesitant to start the tasting in fear of spoiling this work of art.
But the tasting was, in every sense of the word, a real treat, and we can only congratulate the taste and imagination of the chefs who had prepared it. The subtle marriage of Cambodian and French salty flavors was particularly noteworthy - not an easy undertaking, but the result was simply surprising and...exquisite, especially the smoked fish croissant with a light Amok-style sauce and the salmon and coppa croissant, an authentic delight for the palate. And, although these two compositions were our favorite, the other croissants in the range proved just as delicious, original and unexpected.
"January 30 marked World Croissant Day, the perfect opportunity for the Sofitel network to launch its Haute Croissanterie concept, inviting chefs from all over the world to reinvent this veritable symbol of the French breakfast," explained Ravihansi Fernando, Marketing Director of Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, at the local launch of the concept.
Initially, this unique experience was launched by ambassadors from three of the chain's hotels: Sofitel Dubai, The Obelisk in the United Arab Emirates, Sofitel Ambassador Seoul Hotel in South Korea and Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo in Panama. Together, they have perfected the recipe for their Pure Butter croissant, which guarantees the best croissants in town. During a week dedicated to this project in Dubai, the ambassadors trained other pastry chefs from their region to share their excellence and know-how.
Croissant with smoked salmon, Coppa and cane sugar, an authentic delight
Chef Aymeric Bellet was one of them. Thanks to these three ambassadors, thirty Sofitel establishments will launch the Haute Croissanterie. These emblematic destinations will present their local creations called "cultural link" croissants to represent Sofitel, defined by its logo as the symbol of the link that connects cultures around the world.
Since Thursday, the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra has been offering unique flavors such as Cambodian Amok, Caramel Bliss, Nutty Berry and the delicious Gourmet Roll. A great opportunity to indulge in Phnom Penh's unique cultural fusion with the Cambodian Amok Croissant, which combines this classic Cambodian dish with a French croissant, not to mention chef Aymeric Bellet's creative touches.
According to the French chef:
"Haute Croissanterie is our way of celebrating the blend of French and Cambodian flavors. It's a delicious adventure for the taste buds."
Watch the interview with chef Aymeric Bellet
In Siem Reap, the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, located near Angkor Wat, also offers an extraordinary culinary experience for breakfast in its restaurant La Citadelle. 18 mouth-watering creations such as the Khmer mango croissant, caramel rambutan roll, smoked salmon sensation and Croque Monsieur croissant, all expertly prepared by chefs Van Phannaret and Éric Berrigaud. Chef Panareth emphasizes:
"Haute Croissanterie reflects the artistic excellence of Sofitel Angkor. Each creation tells a delicious story that reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience."
La Haute Croissanterie is therefore more than just a breakfast option; it's a delicious and original blend of French pastry expertise and Cambodian flavors. Sofitel aims to offer a memorable gastronomic experience that brings gourmands and gourmets together around unique culinary experiences. And, judging by the smiles and delighted faces of the privileged guests invited to this tasting, the concept is quite successful.
