Che Culo: What luck in the Penh!
Che Culo, loosely translating in Italian to โwhat luck,โ was launched in Phnom Penh in 2014 by a collection of Aussie F & B entrepreneurs seeking to bring BKK1 a lively tapas and cocktail venue - without the pretence. Designed and renovated from the ground up, the street 302 bar and restaurant offers a sense of space far beyond its floorplan, thanks to co-owner, architect and social media manager, Daniel Jury.Jury explains that, โwe wanted to create a space that drew upon the loose Mediterranean bar theme; clay tiled roofs, patterned tiles and rounded archways were all design cues found around the Mediterranean which became staple elements in Che Culoโs design.โ Bar tables running down the center of Che Culo are tall and designed to breed bar-chat between the eclectic mix of expat and local patrons, while the booths along the wall offer intimacy with a view; something fit for both Western and Asian drinking preferences. โWe were also keen maximise the space with the high ceilings, skylights and the large bifold windows that draw natural light deep into the bar,โ says Jury. For eats you can expect a short but diverse menu of cocktails and tapas dishes, that rotate weekly. Sip on hand-shook cocktails while plate after plate of battered green tomatoes, patatas bravas, fried calamari, chorizo and chicken subs, basil pesto pasta and, the long running specialty, Mamaโs meatballs arrive at your booth. An eloquent wine list is also available to match your small plated delights.Nick Hattingh, co-owner, venue manager and in-house entertainer, says โwe drew inspiration for the food and drinks from friendly approachable flavours that people of all walks of life can enjoy... Balanced cocktails with fresh fruits and modern mediterranean "dude food" to share with friends.โ We have a little bit of food from Italy, Greece, Spain, Morocco,โ says Hattingh, โand some cheeky Mexican and even some Portuguese thrown in for good measure.โAll owners are Phnom Penh expats who cut their teeth in the Sydney and Melbourne hospitality scenes, meaning the bar operates in the sleepy corner of BKK with big-city service quality. The venue also hosts bi monthly music events and private functions such as fashion shows, media launches or just cracking birthday parties. Weekly specials include โmeatball Monday,โ โtaco Tuesday,โ โwings Wednesdayโ and Thursdayโs โcider and sliders.โ While happy hour into the wee hours is when Che Culo really warms up, it's also a great pick for a casual $5 lunch. ย But whether you come in at two in the afternoon or ten at night, you will always find the same relaxed vibe, delicious tapas and high quality of service. If you havenโt already, pay Che Culo a visit on street 302 today...