Visiting the temples of Angkor can prove to be an exhausting activity depending on the time of year you visit. Walking combined with the heat of a Cambodge April can be rewarding... But it does call for a session of relaxation and rest afterwards. Many hotels offer spa facilities, massage rooms, swimming pools, in short everything needed to feel comfortable at your place of stay. But some may prefer to sit down in the center of Siem Reap, contemplate this city guardian of the temples, while being relaxed on the terrace of a café or bar in late afternoon.

What else ?

You will very likely have the opportunity to wander along Sok San Road right in the heart of Siem Reap just steps away from Pub Street. This street hosts numerous hotels and restaurants but also the café we're interested in here. What Else Café. Don't expect to see Robert de Niro or Jean Dujardin, but you have to admit the reference is charming. A thoroughly picturesque atmosphere awaits you inside or on the terrace. If your stomach rumbles in late afternoon after hours of walking in search of beautiful lintels and bas-reliefs, you can stop by for reasonably priced Vietnamese sandwiches Banh Mi, as well as French ones topped with cheese, or enjoy a coffee or beer for this early evening. What else? 

Relaxed and unpretentious

Let's venture a bit away from downtown now, a few minutes heading south, towards another sandwich shop, Wine O'clock, which also doubles as a café and bar. The spot, close to Sala Lodge hotel, is away from the urban hustle, relatively speaking in Siem Reap, but sometimes still present. Here, barbecued grilled meats are the name of the game. You can enjoy them on the terrace covered with a charming wooden pergola, accompanied by platters of charcuterie and cheese. Sandwiches are also on the menu. Beer, wine and of course water complete the feast. A relaxed and unpretentious late afternoon awaits you there.

A blend of flora and spirits, finding refinement

Asana Wooden House is the last remaining traditional Khmer house in the bustling Pub Street neighborhood. Situated more quietly, two streets away from the main artery, it has been renovated to welcome today a refined cocktail bar. The two gardens and large terrace bring a natural feel to this place right in the heart of the city. An ideal spot to spend a late afternoon and early evening. Cocktails featuring "Khmer herbs" immerse you in Cambodge flora with tamarind rum, another mixed with cane sugar or a coconut-infused white Russian. Cocktails that are nothing short of original and are sure to delight your senses.