As FCC Angkor, managed by Avani Hotels & Resorts (www.avanihotels.com/angkor-siem-reap), launches after a major renovation, visitors can now savour the culinary masterpieces from Executive Chef Philippe L’obry at The Mansion and Scribe. Inspired by the inquisitive journalism of FCC’s heritage and the exotic flavours embodied in Khmer cuisine, the décor and menu create sensory delights for all, from enjoying a refreshing cocktail to experiencing a four-course feast.
At the heart of FCC Angkor is The Mansion, housed in the residence of the former French governor. Newly reopened after an extensive renovation, the updated colonial-style décor features Khmer copper artefacts and retro peacock chairs. The air is scented by lemon grass and the soothing palette provides a sense of renewal and harmony with a blend of teal, mint and duck egg blue.
Executive Chef Philippe L’obry’s creative menu draws upon the essence of traditional Khmer dishes, however, he has given each dish a fresh twist, enhancing the flavour and showcasing local ingredients. L’obry works with local farmers to obtain the best seasonal produce in order to craft his fresh, flavoursome dishes.
“Since 2003, FCC Angkor has been recognised as an integral part of the vibrant and evolving bar and dining scene in Siem Reap. Continuing a tradition of innovation and excellence, both The Mansion and Scribe offer exciting culinary experiences for travellers and explorers of this renowned UNESCO World Heritage city,” says Dennis Gordienko, General Manager of FCC Angkor, managed by Avani.
The à la carte breakfast menu includes freshly squeezed juices, a proffering of warm oven baked Danishes and croissants, breakfast classics including Eggs Florentine and traditional Cambodian breakfast dishes such as Kao Soy Noodle Soup, which is served with coarsely chopped pork rind, soy beans, chili, shallots, garlic and is topped off with pork rind, bean sprouts and chopped scallions. The Bor Bor Cambodian Rice Porridge, similar in texture to Congee, is served with bean sprouts, ginger and pork or chicken.
Local lunch and dinner specialties feature Trey Spong Chomhoy – steamed sea bass served with watercress, basil and water lily leaves; Beef Lok Lak and Cambodia’s most famous dish, Fish Amok, which is marinated in coconut milk and kroeung curry paste and steamed in a banana leaf.
International lunch and dinner dishes include rib eye steak served with potato dauphinoise, baby carrots and green snap peas in a red wine jus, duck breast served with mash potato, bok choy and baby carrots with a tangy passion fruit sauce. Comfort food comes in the form of fish and chips – savour crispy tempura John Dory strips and French fries served with a julienne salad. Other comfort dishes include pizzas and pastas made to order
Both journalists and travellers enjoy the spirited vibe of Scribe – the perfect alfresco perch for chilled craft beers and cocktails. The cocktail menu is inspired by reporters who frequented the Foreign Correspondents Club in Phnom Penh during its early days, reporting from Cambodia and swapping stories till dusk. A standout cocktail is Frontline – a deceptively smooth concoction despite its fiery ingredients; chili, passion fruit, lime and vanilla syrup served with a sprinkle of Kampot pepper.
FCC Angkor maintains its position as a landmark in Siem Reap and the hotel’s new stylish and modern accommodations provide an excellent basecamp for Angkor temple exploration.
FCC Angkor is managed by Avani Hotels & Resorts and is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. FCC Angkor is the first renovated heritage hotel to open within the FCC Collection, with sister property FCC Phnom Penh currently undergoing renovation and anticipated to open in November 2020.