In this exclusive interview, we delve into Mr. OD's journey, his insights on the craft of cocktail-making, and his vision for elevating Cambodian mixology on the global stage.
1) Can you tell us about your background in the bar industry and how you first got into the world of mixology?
“Everyone calls me OD as my nickname in the F&B industry. My name’s SIN Rothoudom was born in Phnom Penh in 1992, like a normal boy in the city. Bachelor's degree in Accounting and Finance, 2012 I started work as a finance & accountant in a restaurant, at that time I met a good bartender who was very talented. He made me interested in mixology meaning serving beverages called Bartender, bartender like the actor in counter. After 1 year in the restaurant in 2013, I was moved to the night shift as a club manager in the same company, so I work fully with beverage serving.”
2) Have you ever participated in any cocktail-making competitions? How did that experience make you feel?
“I have joined the TOP 30 Academy cocktail-making in 2023, it is just the complete training class program. good experience in building connections with the bartender community.”
3) You are one of the organizers of the Monin Cup Challenge in Cambodia, can you tell us why this competition is so unique?
“Not only me that organizes the competition, we are MONIN Cambodia, and we also organize it every year, MONIN CUP for Bartenders and MONIN Coffee Creativity Cup for Baristas, my position MONIN Cambodia Supervisor I handle the event. MONIN CUP looks the same as any bartender competition, the unique, Focus on innovation, Professional Development, Collaboration, and community. It offers Khmer candidates a platform to showcase their talents, learn from global industry experts, and connect with fellow mixologists from around the world.”
4) Do you have a favorite cocktail that you've made? Can you describe what's in it?
“A cocktail named “Neary Samai” my signature on my bar, was described by my customer's story, in 2009 she left the province to come to work in Phnom Penh as a staff in a night bar to support her poor family, in those time, people were less valued woman whose night work, but she keeps struggle for life, She learns from her job many and she keeps improve from year to year, now she owns Khmer restaurants in NEW YORK.”
5) What are some of your key techniques or "secrets" to making a truly great cocktail?
1. Use fresh, good ingredients, healthful.
2. Balance the flavors
3. Don't overdo it with the alcohol “measurements in the recipe or adjust to suit your taste”
4. Shake or stir mix with care.
5. Garnish and Serve in the right glassware
6. Experiment and have fun.
6) How common or likely is it for people in Cambodia to drink cocktails?
“In Cambodia, cocktails are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations. As the country's tourism industry grows, there has been a rise in cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, and mixology events catering to locals and expats looking for a more sophisticated drinking experience.”
7) What advice would you give to aspiring mixologists, especially those looking to highlight local ingredients in their cocktails?
Embrace Khmer culture and ingredients: Celebrate the vibrant flavors and aromas of Khmer cuisine by incorporating local ingredients such as lemongrass, galangal, ginger, star anise, and Kampot pepper into your cocktails. Pay homage to traditional Khmer herbs, spices, and fruits to create unique and authentic flavors in your drinks.
Learn about traditional Khmer beverages: Explore the rich history and traditions of Khmer beverages like rice wine, palm wine, and herbal infusions to inspire your cocktail creations. Experiment with local spirits, liqueurs, and traditional flavorings to create modern twists on traditional Khmer drinks.
Source ingredients locally: Support Khmer farmers, markets, and producers by sourcing fresh, seasonal, and locally grown ingredients for your cocktails. By using fresh and high-quality Khmer ingredients, you not only ensure the authenticity and sustainability of your drinks but also contribute to the local economy and community.
Collaborate with local artisans and culinary experts: Collaborate with Khmer chefs, food experts, and artisans to exchange knowledge, ideas, and techniques for using local ingredients in cocktails. Drawing inspiration from Khmer culinary traditions can add depth and complexity to your cocktail creations.
Share Khmer stories and traditions: Educate your customers and peers about Khmer culture, history, and ingredients by sharing the stories and traditions behind your cocktail creations. Use your platform as a mixologist to promote appreciation and awareness of Khmer flavors and traditions.
Stay rooted in your Khmer identity: Stay true to your Khmer roots and cultural heritage in your mixology journey. Let your passion for Khmer ingredients and flavors shine through in your cocktails, and be a proud ambassador for Khmer mixology, showcasing the richness and diversity of Khmer flavors to the world.
MONIN is now organizing an exciting bartending competition that have Mr. OD as an organizer. The national contest is focused on the mixologists to make delicious low-alcohol cocktails using their creativity. The theme is "Low is More", which means the drinks should have less alcohol but still taste great.
We are honored to have Florian Bohême, the CEO of b.Consulting Cambodia, as one of the judges. His expertise will help make sure the competition is fair and the best bartenders win.
The semi-final and final will happen on June 14, 2024. This event is open to all, so please join us to see which candidate will win the championship of the year 2024!
📆 See you on June 14, 2024
📍 Location: Chip Mong Mega Mall 271
📍 Location: http://bit.ly/2KfTbM0
For more information:
☎️ Contact: 077 777 970 / 069 666 999
📩 Telegram: http://t.me/csline2kofi
Contact b.Consulting
(+855) 10 518 700
Email address: contact@bconsultingcambodia.com
.png)