Alaska Bar Phnom Penh: A Social Hub of Relaxation and Entertainment on Street 136
Located in the heart of Phnom Penh’s nightlife corridor, Alaska Bar on Street 136 delivers a compelling blend of laid-back charm and lively entertainment. Whether you’re stopping in for a casual drink, a friendly game of pool, or engaging company, this venue stands out for its welcoming atmosphere, approachable service, and social energy.
Situated just a short walk from the Riverside one of the city’s most frequented tourist and expat districts Alaska Bar caters to a mix of locals, travelers, and long-term expats, making it a popular rendezvous point after sunset.
A Prime Location in Phnom Penh’s Nightlife District
Street 136 is one of Phnom Penh’s most active nightlife zones, often compared to Thailand’s Soi Cowboy or Manila’s Ermita. Here, bars line both sides of the street, offering cold drinks, pool tables, and upbeat music.
Alaska Bar carves out its own niche by combining friendly service, a comfortable layout, and an atmosphere that is equally welcoming to solo visitors, groups, and regulars.
For more on Phnom Penh’s nightlife streets and popular bar clusters, refer to Cambodia Travel or check out expat nightlife guides on platforms like ExpatDen.
Why Alaska Bar Draws a Loyal Crowd
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Well-Stocked Bar | Offers local and imported beers, spirits, and cocktails at fair prices |
| Pool Table | Perfect for casual games and mingling with other patrons |
| Friendly Staff & Hostesses | Known for making newcomers feel at home |
| Relaxed Music & Lighting | Upbeat yet never overwhelming ideal for long conversations |
| Take-Out Companion Option | Hostesses available to accompany guests beyond the venue (where permitted) |
The staff at Alaska Bar are often highlighted in visitor reviews for their warm demeanor and genuine hospitality. It’s a bar that prioritizes making guests feel at ease, whether they’re in for one drink or an extended stay.
Drinks and Games: The Classic Combo
Alaska Bar offers a traditional bar menu that covers all the essentials. Whether you’re into draft beer, a classic rum and Coke, or a custom cocktail, the bartenders here are ready to pour.
| Drink Option | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Draft Beer | Local brews like Angkor or Cambodia Beer, always served cold |
| Classic Cocktails | Mojitos, gin & tonics, margaritas made to order |
| Spirits & Mixers | Wide range of whiskeys, vodkas, and rums with soda or juice |
The pool table is a major attraction and acts as a natural icebreaker. Games are casual, competitive, and always social. For travelers looking to connect or expats seeking a familiar rhythm, it’s the kind of environment that quickly turns strangers into acquaintances.
A Note on Hostess Bars in Phnom Penh
Bars like Alaska are commonly referred to as hostess bars a popular nightlife format in Southeast Asia, particularly in Cambodia, Thailand, and the Philippines. These establishments combine drinks and social interaction, where guests may be joined by female staff (hostesses) for conversation or companionship.
While some hostesses are available for “take-out” (a colloquial term for accompanying patrons elsewhere with consent and agreement), it’s important to understand that this dynamic is entirely optional, respectful, and should always adhere to local laws and cultural etiquette.
For deeper insights into Cambodian nightlife culture and its evolving hospitality scene, check out The Phnom Penh Post, which often explores themes around tourism, service, and nightlife regulation.
Who Should Visit Alaska Bar?
| Visitor Type | Why It Works for Them |
|---|---|
| Solo Travelers | Safe, sociable space to enjoy a drink and meet new people |
| Expat Residents | Consistent, casual setting with familiar faces |
| Tourist Groups | A fun pre-party or post-dinner destination |
| Nightlife Explorers | A key stop on a Street 136 bar crawl or broader city circuit |
The bar is open late, making it an ideal stop for winding down the evening or keeping the energy going into the early hours.
Final Thoughts
Alaska Bar may not be the flashiest venue in Phnom Penh, but it’s the kind of bar that delivers consistently good drinks, friendly vibes, and a comfortable place to hang out. In a city where the nightlife scene is ever-evolving, it stands as a reliable favorite for those who appreciate unpretentious fun and local flavor.
For more bar and nightlife guides in Phnom Penh, visit Travelfish’s Cambodia section or explore Culture Trip’s take on the city’s after-dark charm.
