Sombai is a liqueur made in Siem Reap
Sombai – pronounced as “som bai” – means “some rice, please” in Khmer.
The main idea behind Sombai was to provide a product that is both beautiful and tasty. It is an old dream that we made come true.
In fact, when we arrived in Siem Reap we were quite disappointed with what there was on the market because we eventually found few products made in Siem Reap.
Our best friends were about to come visit us. What a great opportunity to spend quality time together! We wanted to make barbecues with fish and poultry from the area, prepare large fruit salads, mix delicious smoothies and make them discover good local drinks … Everything was there, except the good local drink… We then decided to do it ourselves, with local products and knowledge acquired in the islands that matches a local tradition of Cambodia.
And then we wondered how to create a beautiful packaging with a local touch. We went to a school in the city where young Cambodians were learning to paint. Some seemed clearly talented, and a few even gifted. We asked them if they knew how to paint on glass. And yes, they could do it! It was way beyond what we were hoping for!
Then friends, who manage bars and restaurants in town, wanted to offer Sombai to their clients. They are actually always looking for new products made in Siem Reap.
So, that is how everything started…
