240 ½: The Street Almost Never Mentioned in Phnom Penh Guidebooks

With quaint architecture and shops, Phnom Penh’s street 240 has been a favorite among the city’s expats and visitors for many years. The street houses several boutiques, wine bars, gastro pubs, and a high-end chocolatier. A uniquely different shopping and dining experience can be found in street 240 ½; a small hidden alley off-of street 240.

SHOPPING
Anyone looking for quirky and one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories will feel right at home here. There are several small shops selling creations by up-and-coming local designers. Crash Test Dummies is the shop one cannot and should not miss. Almost everything sold here is handmade, and often in support of a social cause. Whether it be hand-painted canvas shoes or eye-catching jewelry, the assortment here includes everything from simple to out of the ordinary.

A not so normal liquor store is located at the end of 240 ½: La Familia, “Purveyors of Fine Spirits & Experiences”. The latter part of the store’s tagline says it all. A visit to La Familia is a must and an experience that will not be forgotten. The varieties of rums, tequilas, gins, vodkas, etc. that can be found and tasted here speak volumes. In addition to a “select portfolio of the world’s finest artisanal spirits and premium brands”, La Familia also hosts well-visited, regular cocktail-related events and workshops.

ART

Visually, street 240 ½ stands out through its street art. The organization Cambodia Urban Art, who runs the recently opened Bar & Art Gallery in the street. They have played a major role in promoting and preserving street art and artists, not only in this small alley, but throughout Phnom Penh.

EATING and DRINKING
Artillery was the first business that opened on Street 240 ½ back in 2011. This health café and arts venue offers creative and healthy menu choices, which include vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options, in a beautiful multi-level setting. The Café also operates a sister restaurant in Siem Reap that offers cleansing, dieting, art- and handcrafted products to its customers.

Phnom Penh’s best late-night eats can be enjoyed at the Townhouse Supper Club, one of the alley’s more prominent and exclusive tenants. Carnivores and seafood lovers can satisfy their hunger here until long after midnight.

Across from the Townhouse Supper Club is Bar Sito; the restaurant’s sister bar and self-acclaimed “first Speakeasy in Phnom Penh.” It is a small, yet beautifully designed space where people from all walks of life come to enjoy an atmosphere you must experience and pillar of Phnom Penh’s cocktail scene.

Street 240 ½’s flair is best experienced during evening hours, when patrons dine and drink in the alley, while soft, light and music from the various venues amplify the ambiance of this unique, short alley.