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Thalias Group Unveils “Le Bleu de Prek Leap”

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Pioneering the Cheese Movement in Cambodia In a remarkable culinary, Thalias Group takes immense pleasure in introducing “Le Bleu de Prek Leap,” a pioneering product that marks a new dawn for the Cambodian dairy industry. Charting New Territories in Cambodian Cuisine Historically, the art of cheese-making may not be synonymous with Cambodian culinary practices, but THALIAS  is changing that narrative. With the introduction of “Le Bleu de Prek Leap,” we are not only diversifying the local palate but also creating a sustainable and innovative future for Cambodian dairy. Crafting a local delicacy with global appeal : Supporting Local Dairy Farms: Our commitment lies in bolstering the Cambodian dairy industry, providing a platform for local farmers to thrive. Reducing Dependency on Imports: By creating a locally crafted product, we are taking a significant step towards reducing the reliance on imported cheeses, ensuring food security and freshness. Innovating with Cambodian Flair: “Le Bleu de Prek Leap” is more than cheese; it’s the embodiment of innovation, crafted with a unique Cambodian flair that is waiting to be discovered globally. A Vision for Culinary Sustainability Thalias is steadfast in its vision to nurture the local dairy sector. With every slice of “Le Bleu de Prek Leap,” we are paving the way for a future where Cambodian-made products stand tall amidst imported alternatives. Embracing the Locally Crafted Excellence We invite you to join us on this gastronomic voyage, one that promises to tantalize your taste buds and introduce you to the unparalleled potential of Cambodian dairy craftsmanship. Be a part of this groundbreaking journey with Thalias. Come savor the richness of “Le Bleu de prek Leap” and support local artisans and farmers. Let’s celebrate the innovation that Thalias is infusing into Cambodian cuisine and raise a toast to the locally, globally loved ‘Le bleu de Prek Leap”, a cheese that’s truly Cambodian at heart. We are experiencing the revolution in Cambodian cheese-making with Thalias and Topaz – where tradition meets innovation. Subscribe to Thalias Newsletter : https://thalias.com.kh/email-signup For reservation : https://topaz.thalias.com.kh/reservation

Khmer New Year: a recipe for happiness and freedom of the mind

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As we await the official celebration of Khmer New Year next weekend, many Cambodians are organising neighbourhood or village parties in honour of the tradition. Games, dancing and smiles, as at this party in a Boeung Snor district on the outskirts of Phnom Penh. It’s a chance to have fun, get together with friends and family and eat well.  Cambodians love to party and get together for traditional celebrations, and what better way to celebrate than by celebrating Cambodian food? You’ll always find delicious num banh chok, fermented rice noodles served cold with a light fish sauce, accompanied by fresh herbs, vegetables and fruit, or other very Khmer specialities; it’s a feast for the senses!  For these celebrations, the restaurants of the Thalias group remain open! And for those who wish to celebrate this Khmer New Year in style but don’t have the time to cook, consider Le Malis! They can prepare family meals on request, on the spot or to take away, in both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.  Khéma restaurants are also offering an exciting opportunity to celebrate the Khmer New Year with a generous free flow for the modest sum of $25 net! Don’t miss out on this amazing chance to indulge in some of the best cuisine in town! For those looking for larger meals, consider our World Dining Catering chain, which specializes in organizing prestige banquets, large family celebrations, and other events, and offers delicious Cambodian and other Asian menus.  Subscribe to our Newsletter for more catering or special offers for celebrations https://thalias.com.kh/email-signup/

Sommelier corner: Feudi Bizantini 8 Limited Edition at Siena

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As the art of wine becomes increasingly popular in the Kingdom, we sought out a few rarities in the beautiful wine cellar of the Siena restaurant. The choice is so vast and sophisticated that it’s hard to choose, but the restaurant’s master, Giussepe Napolitano, admits that he has a special soft spot for an Italian wine that is definitely one of a kind.  ” This is a limited edition wine, only six thousand bottles will be produced for each vintage, and the winemaker will select only the best wine that has been aged in barrels. Out of 10 barrels, only eight will be bottled,” explains Giussepe, adding:  ” This beautiful wine is made from the Montepulciano grape, which produces a rich and full-bodied red wine. It has a very intense and elegant ruby red colour and a broad and complex bouquet, with fruity notes of plums, cherry jam and a hint of tobacco, accompanied by a subtle spiciness.’’   ‘’These characteristics contribute to a truly exceptional wine that is sure to delight the senses at any time of day. That’s why I love this wine, which I think goes perfectly with meat’’.   The flavour profile of Feudi Bizantini 8 Limited Edition is equally impressive and quite original. The pronounced notes of dark berries provide a lush sweetness balanced by a well-defined structure. The wine is not overly sweet and its complexity and depth of flavour make it an excellent choice for wine lovers who appreciate a unique and different wine that offers both elegance and character.    Feudi Bizantini 8 Limited Edition 0.75L stands out not only for its exceptional taste, but also for its limited availability and collectability. It is a limited edition wine produced in limited quantities, making it a rare find for wine collectors and enthusiasts. The exclusivity of this wine adds to its appeal and makes it a coveted bottle for fine wine lovers. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or added to a wine collection, Feudi Bizantini 8 Limited Edition stands out for its unique qualities and exceptional craftsmanship.  You want to taste this unique wine, please visit Siena Restaurant  More wines to discover in Thalias Newsletter https://thalias.com.kh/email-signup/

Luxury & Tourism: Arunreas, at the heart of the Khmer dawn

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Arunreas, literally the dawn or the rising day, has been a precious concept since the ancient times of Khmer civilisation, a tribute to Surya, the Vedic god of the sun, who, in harmony with the moon, gives rhythm to the cycles of nature and mortals in the Buddhist religion and the Khmer calendar. In this building, formerly the home of the American Embassy in Phnom Penh, Arnaud Darc, wanted to create there a unique and ambitious concept combining luxury, tradition and contemporary art.  Les passerelles du temps  The original idea was to create a hotel project that would harmoniously blend contemporary elements with symbols of the purest Khmer tradition, hand-carved by Khmer artists. The entrance to the building faces the sunrise, symbolising the beginning of the day. And, importantly, as tradition dictates, each part of the building, and therefore its guests, are also protected by a deity, like here (photo below), above the entrance to the building, the god Ganesh, deity who removes obstacles, but also god of wisdom, intelligence, education and prudence.  Ganesh is the son of Shiva and Pârvatî, the husband of Siddhi (success), Buddhi (intellect) and Riddhî (wealth).  It is the hotel lobby that perhaps best illustrates the concept of bridging the ages. While the walls are adorned with sculptures and bas-reliefs carved in the spirit of Angkor and skilfully accentuated by subtle lighting, the furniture, tables and sofas are resolutely modern, confined to almost neutral tones so as to provide a far greater contrast to the ochre, earth and copper sculptures above.  The hotel constantly plays with the aesthetics of the contemporary and the old, both inside and out, and also in the more neutral areas, such as the corridors, which are sometimes neglected in hotel decoration. Here, for example, a deity watches over the hotel rooms, with paintings by contemporary Cambodian artist Chhim Sothy. The Arunreas corridors, decorated in keeping with the spirit and soul of the Arunreas luxury hotel.  The rooms also reflect this quest for harmony and aesthetics at the crossroads of styles. The bas-reliefs and wall sculptures are complemented by the silks that adorn the beds and armchairs, and the same delicate lighting. But the divine surprise is just a few steps away…  The Arunreas Suites offer all the comforts of a luxury hotel, with an emphasis on the aesthetics inherent in the concept :  A space of tranquillity with a mural sculpture depicting scenes of bathing from the Angkorian period, the bathroom offers two areas, one for the bath and the other for the shower, with the recurring presence of traditional murals integrated into a modernly designed space that also enjoys natural lighting.  Arunreas is not only an original and unique experience in Phnom Penh. It is also a hotel that has become very popular with business travellers from all over Asia. In addition to the comforts of a luxury hotel, Arunreas offers a range of services to ensure that business travellers feel they are in an environment conducive to both work and relaxation. Located in the heart of the city, just a few hundred metres from the main boulevards, Arunreas is the ideal base for those whose time is precious.   Subscribe to Thalias Newsletter https://thalias.com.kh/email-signup Arunrease Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ArunreasHotel

Celebrating Our Own – Arnaud Darc Recognized as One of Cambodia’s Top International Voices

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🎉 A Toast to Excellence and Visionary Leadership in 2024! With immense pride, we announce that Arnaud Darc, our visionary CEO and Founder of Thalias, has been honored as one of the 𝟱𝟬 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗮 by the prestigious Cambodian Leadership Review this year. Arnaud Darc’s journey is one of passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His contribution to the Cambodian hospitality industry through Thalias has not only set benchmarks for service quality but has also showcased the rich Cambodian heritage to the world. Under Arnaud’s leadership, Thalias has blossomed into a beacon of culinary delight and hospitality innovation, mirroring the very essence of Cambodia’s warm and welcoming spirit. His belief in sustainable practices and community development continues to inspire and drive positive change within the industry. We invite you to join us in congratulating Arnaud for this well-deserved recognition. Let’s continue to support and be inspired by his journey as he leads Thalias towards a future filled with growth, community impact, and global collaboration. 🌎✨ Stay tuned to our updates and join us in celebrating this outstanding achievement! For more details and to view the full list, visit Cambodian Leadership Review 👉🏼 https://cambodialeadershipreview.com/index.php/arnaud-darc/

We at Thalias Hospitality Group are proud to announce a remarkable achievement

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We at Thalias Hospitality Group are proud to announce a remarkable achievement: Topaz Restaurant has been selected in the 50 Best Discovery from the prestigious World’s 50 Best Restaurants platform. Our enduring commitment to offering an exceptional French dining experience is now globally recognized. Join us as we celebrate this milestone and continue to set the standard for fine dining in Cambodia: https://www.theworlds50best.com/discovery/Establishments/Cambodia/Phnom-Penh/Topaz.html

Celebrating the Launch of Santepheap Foodcourt

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A New Culinary Chapter Begins We are delighted to announce the official opening of the Santepheap Foodcourt, a gastronomic haven nestled on the 20th floor of a landmark building in Phnom Penh. Our CEO & Chairman Arnaud Darc of Thalias Hospitality Group, was honored to unveil this exceptional venue that promises to be one city’s vibrant epicenter of taste and social interaction. The Santepheap Foodcourt embodies our vision of providing a diverse array of culinary experiences, from quick lunches to exclusive VIP dining, all coupled with breathtaking panoramic views. Our dedication to creating inviting and versatile spaces shines through each thoughtfully designed area, from the welcoming reception to the spacious lounge. This inauguration marks more than the opening of a food court; it’s a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in hospitality. We are now extending an invitation to companies inspired by our project, who wish to create similar experiences in their own spaces. Whether you’re looking to open a canteen or a full-scale food court, THALIAS  Hospitality Group is here to bring your vision to life with our expertise. Engage with us to explore how we can transform your company’s dining facilities into an attractive and memorable part of your employees’ day. 🍴✨ For inquiries and partnerships, reach out to us at arnauddarc@thalias.com.kh #ThaliasHospitality #SantepheapFoodcourt #CorporateDiningSolutions #InnovationInCulinarySpaces #BusinessGrowth #PartnershipOpportunities

The Culinary Richness of Cambodia’s Water Festival

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Cambodia’s Water Festival, locally known as “Bon Om Tok,” is a significant event in the Khmer calendar. It is a celebration that marks the end of the monsoon season and the reversal of the flow of the Tonle Sap River. However, beyond the boat races and the vibrant festivities, the Water Festival is also a culinary fiesta.  A Festival Steeped in History  Bon Om Tok finds its roots in the ancient Khmer Empire, with references to the festival found in the etchings at the Bayon and Banteay Chhmar temples. The festival has been celebrated for centuries, and its traditions have been passed down through generations.  The Water Festival aligns with the full moon in the Khmer lunar calendar month of Kadeuk. This period also coincides with the time when the rice crops in the paddy fields are ready for harvest. This timing means that rice, a staple food in the Kingdom, plays an integral role during the festival.  The Importance of Food in the Water Festival  During the Water Festival, food takes center stage. The traditional snack Ambok, made from rice, coconut, and banana, is sold throughout the festive period. This snack has a significant role in the festival, with Prime Minister Hun Sen calling on the public to enjoy Ambok together as a show of unity.  Ambok: A Traditional Delicacy  Ambok is a traditional flattened rice dish that forms part of the Bon Om Tok ceremony. The process of making Ambok involves frying the rice in its natural husks, then beating it in a pestle until it is soft. The husks are then removed, and the rice is mixed with banana and coconut juice for flavor.  The Ambok is typically eaten when the clock strikes midnight or when the incense offered at the beginning of the gathering is consumed. Despite being a traditional dish, Ambok remains a popular snack and is sold widely during the Water Festival.  The Role of Rice in the Festival  Beyond Ambok, rice plays a crucial role in the Water Festival. As the festival coincides with the time when the rice crops are ready for harvest, rice becomes a symbol of abundance and prosperity. It’s not just a staple food but an integral part of the festival, representing the agricultural richness of the Kingdom.  The Culinary Landscape of the Water Festival  The Water Festival is also a time when the culinary landscape of Cambodia comes alive. Street food stalls pop up along the river, selling treats like fried insects, pickled mangoes, and grilled chicken. These dishes offer a burst of flavors, showcasing the diversity and richness of Cambodian cuisine.  Specifically, in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, where the Water Festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, the food scene becomes particularly vibrant. Here, not only can one indulge in traditional Cambodian street food, but also experience the culinary delights offered by renowned restaurants like Malis.  Malis Restaurant: A Culinary Gem  In the heart of these cities, Malis Restaurant stands as a culinary gem. Known for its authentic Cambodian cuisine, Malis offers a unique dining experience that combines tradition with modernity. During the Water Festival, Malis serves a special menu that highlights the flavors of the season, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.  The Festival as a Time for Unity and Gratitude  Beyond the culinary delights, the Water Festival is a time for unity and gratitude. The tradition of eating Ambok together is seen as a show of unity, a reminder of the importance of coming together to celebrate and protect the nation, religion, and King.  The festival also includes customs like Ork Ambok and Sampeah Preah Khe, where offerings are made to the moon, and prayers are said for peace and prosperity. These traditions underscore the spiritual significance of the festival, and the role food plays in these rituals further highlights the integral connection between food and culture in Cambodia.  Conclusion  In essence, the Water Festival is a celebration of life, culture, and culinary richness. It is a time when the people of Cambodia come together to celebrate the end of the monsoon season, participate in vibrant festivities, and indulge in the diverse flavors of Khmer cuisine.  So, whether you are a local or a tourist, experiencing the Water Festival, particularly its culinary aspect, will offer you a unique insight into the rich cultural heritage of Cambodia. And when in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, don’t forget to pay a visit to Malis Restaurant for an authentic Cambodian dining experience that you will remember long after the Water Festival ends. 

Mag Guests: Ratana Phurik Callebaut and Frank Dufrenoy discover “Yi Sang the Garden”

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In this edition of the Magazine Guests, we feature two distinguished personalities from the business sector, Ratana Phurik Callebaut and Frank Dufrenoy, who recently explored the verdant charm of “Yi Sang the Garden,” a restaurant renowned for its lavish and exquisite Cambodian and Asian cuisine.  Ratana Phurik Callebaut and Frank Dufrenoy are known figures in the business world. Callebaut, known for her captivating smile and formidable skills, has made significant contributions in her roles at the France Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, DFDL, and EuroCham. She is revered as a successful businesswoman, an exemplary leader, and a timeless beauty.  Dufrenoy, on the other hand, is known for his outgoing personality, his piercing blue eyes, and his prowess in marketing and media. He has made his mark in several local firms, including Graphic Root, LLC, KhmerDev, and Impact M&A, and now operates as an independent professional.  The third “character” in this feature is the restaurant itself, Yi Sang the Garden Toul Kork, one of the prime establishments under the Thalias Group. Inaugurated in 2018, the restaurant is housed in a grand white-walled villa at 13 Rue 337. The villa features a glass-enclosed kitchen, where chefs prepare delectable roast ducks and other Cantonese-style dishes.  Scattered around the vicinity are outdoor tables, nestled under a vast tree that offers much-needed shade during the humid monsoon afternoons. The restaurant also boasts a serene green space adorned with a majestic statue, accessible by a staircase crossing a pool. Inside the villa, the elegant decor is tastefully understated. The first floor, accessible by a broad circular staircase, houses a climate-controlled wine cellar, art pieces, a cozy waiting room, and several private lounges.  The special menu showcased the restaurant’s signature starters, including DimSum dishes like Siu Mai, Xia Jiao, and Xiao Long Bao, served in steam-heated bamboo baskets. These dishes, prepared with the finesse characteristic of chefs trained by the brand’s creator, Mr. Luu Meng, were impeccable.  Following the sumptuous starters was a fresh salmon salad, which was unanimously approved by our guests. The succulent fish, combined with a slightly sweet and tangy dressing and served with salad and ripe avocado, was a culinary delight.  Next came the Cambodian style beef with an abundance of fried rice. The tender meat and the flavorful rice were a testament to the quality of Cambodian rice, which is considered among the world’s best. The only minor criticism was the size of the beef chunks, which could have been cut smaller.    Among the main dishes, the braised pork, crispy and rich, was another crowd favorite. This dish, made from wild pig, is a classic in Yi Sang’s repertoire with an intriguing backstory.  Several years ago, Luu Meng was invited by the Minister of Environment, His Excellency Say Sam Al, to join a delegation to the Kulen region. The group was tasked with meeting the locals and devising measures to protect the forests, water, and the region’s ancient temples.  Upon arrival, the villagers had prepared a traditional roasted pig in honor of the delegates. Fascinated by the unique flavors, Meng decided to support the villagers by buying their Kulen pigs at double the market rate, making the venture profitable and sustainable for them. In return, the villagers pledged to protect the forests, crucial for the pigs’ sustenance.  The “Kadaw Kulen Pig” has since become a renowned delicacy in Cambodia, considered the best source of local pork. Today, it’s a national favorite and a culinary treasure, thanks in part to the support of Luu Meng and the Thalias Group.   The meal concluded with a Cambodian-style fish soup, which our guests praised for its exceptional taste and quality.    Aside from a minor critique, this luncheon allowed our guests to experience the unique blend of Khmer and Chinese cuisine in the capital. The salmon salad, braised pork, and fish soup were standout dishes. The service, as expected from the Thalias group, was efficient, attentive, and responsive. Yi Sang the Garden Toul Kork comes highly recommended for those seeking a memorable dining experience of local and Asian gastronomy in a delightful setting, served with utmost care and professionalism.   For more insights about this establishment, refer to the review by expert Pascal Médeville. 

AI: Revolutionizing Artistic Expression, One Pixel at a Time

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Art and technology have been intertwined since time immemorial, with each leap in technology bringing about a paradigm shift in the way art is created and perceived. In the current digital age, AI has emerged as a potent tool, reshaping the realm of artistic expression with its inherent ability to replicate and even surpass human capabilities to create art. Among the pioneers who are harnessing AI to create revolutionary art is Jérémie Montessuis, an artist known for his ability to fuse history, technology, and aesthetics to create mesmerizing masterpieces. The Artistic Visionary: Jérémie Montessuis  Jérémie Montessuis is a creative consultant, photographer, and designer who has earned accolades for his innovative approach to art. His proficiency in using AI to create art is a testament to his ingenuity and foresight. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Montessuis has been a trailblazer in adopting and exploiting emerging technologies to create art that is not just visually appealing but also thought-provoking.  A Step Back in Time: The “Timeless” Exhibition  Last month, art enthusiasts were treated to a unique experience at the prestigious Topaz restaurant, which hosted the “Timeless” art exhibition. This event was a celebration of Montessuis’s latest masterpiece series titled “A.I Journey Through the 1930s in Cambodia”. The exhibition was a remarkable fusion of art and AI, where Montessuis resurrected a bygone era with astounding authenticity.  The Power of AI: Breathing Life into History  Montessuis’s exhibition was an outcome of an intensive five-week journey of research and composition. He used the AI tool MidJourney to create a collection of portraits and close-ups that skillfully resurrected the characters and scenes of Cambodia in the 1930s. The use of AI added depth, shadows, and lighting to the images, making them astonishingly realistic.  The exhibition was a symphony of scenes that captured the essence of Cambodia in the 1930s. Spectacular scenes of Phnom Penh and Angkor Wat, especially those set in the lush jungles of Cambodia, held viewers spellbound. Montessuis’s ability to transport the viewer to another time and place was nothing short of magical, inviting them to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Cambodia’s history.  A Unique Blend of History, Art, and Technology  Montessuis’s exhibition is a refreshing reminder that innovation can enhance, rather than diminish, our appreciation for history and art. The convergence of AI and photography in this series highlights the shared ability of both mediums to capture and interpret the beauty of our world in ways that transcend time.  A Testament to Quality: The Artwork  The series comprises just under 100 artworks, each receiving the attention it deserves, allowing patrons to savor the details of a bygone era expertly brought to life by Montessuis’s artistic vision. The artwork is on display and available for sale at Topaz for the next month, offering patrons a chance to bring a piece of Cambodia’s rich heritage into their own homes.  The Perfect Backdrop: The Role of Topaz  The ambiance of the Topaz restaurant served as the perfect backdrop for this extraordinary exhibition. The combination of exquisite cuisine and Montessuis’s evocative artwork created an atmosphere that resonated with the theme of the exhibition. The gracious invitation from Eden, the General Manager of Topaz, allowed patrons to experience this seamless integration of art and fine dining.  Conclusion: The Future of Art in the Age of AI  The “Timeless” exhibition represents the dawn of a new era where AI is not just a tool but a collaborator in the creation of art. Jérémie Montessuis, with his visionary approach to art, has set a new standard for the intersection of tradition and innovation in the art world. One thing is certain – as AI continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, we can expect to see even more groundbreaking art that pushes the boundaries of creativity and imagination. You can still enjoy this “Timeless” exhibition at Topaz until the end of December.   Figure 1: A sample of Jérémie Montessuis’s AI art from the “Timeless” exhibition.  “In a world where technology often seems at odds with tradition, Montessuis’ exhibition is a refreshing reminder that innovation can enhance, rather than diminish, our appreciation for history and art.”