Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor and Raffles Makati Launch Exclusive Bar Takeover Series

In the world of luxury hospitality, few names evoke the romance of travel quite like Raffles. Beyond the grand colonial facades and white-glove service, the true soul of these heritage properties often resides in their legendary bars—spaces where history is poured into a glass, and conversations transcend borders. This season, two of Southeast Asia's most iconic hotel addresses are turning that shared legacy into a vibrant cultural dialogue.

Under the captivating banner “Philippines to Cambodia x Cambodia to Philippines,” Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap and Raffles Makati in Manila are joining forces for an exclusive two-part bar takeover series. Hosted in collaboration with prestigious spirits partners Maison Ferrand, Moonshine Cambodia, Citadelle, and Planteray, this cross-border exchange is set to redefine experiential luxury for discerning cocktail enthusiasts across the region.

Elephant Bar at Raffles Grand Hotel d Angkor

Chapter One: Manila’s Narrative Precision Comes to Siem Reap

The liquid journey kicks off on July 18, 2026, when the quiet elegance of Siem Reap’s historic Elephant Bar plays host to Kristian Torres, the visionary head bartender of the legendary Long Bar at Raffles Makati.

Torres, revered within the regional bar community for his technical precision and deeply narrative-driven cocktail philosophy, will step behind the Elephant Bar counter to weave a story of the archipelago. Guests can expect a masterclass in mixology as Torres reimagines classic cocktail structures using vibrant, sun-drenched Filipino flavors and native ingredients, offering Cambodian locals and international travelers an immersive taste of contemporary Manila.

Chapter Two: The Spirit of Angkor Travels to Manila

On August 14, 2026, the tables turn as the Elephant Bar team travels to Manila to take over the Long Bar at Raffles Makati. Orchestrating this highly anticipated evening is Nisha, the celebrated Raffles Gin Butler at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor.

Nisha, whose profound expertise in botanical spirits and passion for Khmer heritage earned her a prestigious finalist placement in the 2025 Campari Red Hands Cambodia Competition, represents the pinnacle of modern Cambodian bartending. Her curations are less about drinking and more about time travel, using local terroir to celebrate the country's rich historical tapestry.

“It is an honour to represent Elephant Bar and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor at Raffles Makati,” reflects 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.”

A Symphony of Rare Flavors and Maison Ferrand Spirits

During her Manila residency, Nisha will showcase a series of sophisticated, gin-based cocktails that marry Cambodian traditions with the liquid excellence of Maison Ferrand spirits.

The crown jewel of her anniversary menu will be her nationally acclaimed “Berry Suspicious” cocktail. This complex, multi-sensory creation balances the bright botanicals of Citadelle Rouge gin with sweet cremé de fraise, fresh strawberry, and basil purée. The defining element, however, is a house-made syrup crafted from Kampot pepper—Cambodia’s legendary, world-recognized spice—topped with a dash of "magic foam" and a promised surprise for attending guests.

Celebrating a Shared Legacy

More than a showcase of elite mixology, this exclusive exchange highlights the enduring bond between the historic properties of the Raffles portfolio. By blending the distinct drinking subcultures of Cambodia and the Philippines, the takeover series proves that while trends evolve, thoughtful storytelling and genuine warmth remain the ultimate ingredients of a world-class cocktail experience.

For reservations or to learn more about the upcoming mixology events at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, please contact the hotel concierge at +855 23 982 598 or visit www.raffles.com/siem-reap/.