News · Raffles

Mindy's Speakeasy Elevates Phnom Penh Nightlife at Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Phnom Penh's iconic Raffles Hotel Le Royal has debuted Mindy's, a limited-engagement speakeasy transporting guests to 1940s New York. This pop-up blends jazz, curated cocktails, and an immersive design, redefining the city's luxury entertainment scene.

H. TANABE· Japanese correspondent·June 12, 2026·2 min read
Exterior view of the Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, showcasing its elegant colonial architecture under a bright sky.

Exterior view of the Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, showcasing its elegant colonial architecture under a bright sky.

Opened on May 16, 2026, Mindy's, a new pop-up speakeasy, brings a slice of 1940s New York to Phnom Penh's Raffles Hotel Le Royal. This exclusive establishment, operational until May 31, is set within one of Cambodia's most storied hotels, a long-standing haunt for dignitaries and discerning travelers since the 1920s.

True to the speakeasy tradition, Mindy's lies behind an unmarked door, its interior meticulously crafted to evoke a clandestine bygone era. Dimmed lighting, rich wood, vintage signage, and plush leather seating recall the intimate lounges of 1920s to 1940s New York. According to Travel And Tour World, this design ethos aims to transport visitors and foster a sense of discovery.

The experience is amplified by live jazz and swing performances, encouraging leisurely enjoyment rather than hurried consumption. As Travel And Tour World notes, such curated soundtracks reflect a broader trend in Southeast Asia, valuing craft, ambiance, and social connection.

The cocktail program at Mindy's is as narrative-driven as its decor, featuring complex flavor profiles and theatrical presentations. Offerings include the bourbon-based "Sky Masterson’s Lucky Flight," finished tableside with a flaming orange peel, and "Miss Adelaide’s Lament," a gin and raspberry liqueur blend. The rye whiskey-focused "Nathan Detroit’s Hustle" offers a twist on classic Manhattan-style drinks. For those preferring non-alcoholic options, "The Reformer" — a blend of ginger beer, lime, and mint — maintains the menu's sophisticated character, as Travel And Tour World highlights.

Our take: Phnom Penh's luxury scene continues its ascent, and temporary concepts like Mindy's are crucial. They generate buzz and offer novelty without long-term commitments, testing new markets and elevating the city's hospitality profile. Raffles Le Royal, with its colonial grandeur, is an ideal stage for such a theatrical undertaking.

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