Location

The Quay overlooks its namesake, Sisowath Quay, a non-stop parade of people, motorbikes and cars, and the more languid traffic along the Tonle Sap River.

First Impression

From the outside, the hotel - a white wedge of Modernism - provides a striking contrast to the drab building from which it was hewn. Inside, Chow restaurant is all urbane curves: round black tables, white-leather Arne Jacobsen-inspired Swan chairs, cylindrical pillars and circular cut-outs in the high ceiling. The reception desk is tucked away in the back.

The Rooms

The slick styling in the public areas extends to the 16 so-called suites (they’re actually just rooms). The ambitious design includes more white-leather Jacobsen chairs (this time the Egg), dimly lit, nightclub-esque bathrooms and asymmetrical overhead fans. Go for the more spacious panoramic rooms, which boast balconies and river views; standard rooms are half the size and don’t have windows. All the rooms have Wi-Fi and obligatory flat-screen TV’s.

Sore Spot

The size and location make a pool impossible and the rooftop plunge pool makes a respectable compromise. Unfortunately, it’s cheek-by-jowl with the hotel’s terrace bar.

Trump Cards

Chow’s scrumptious modernized takes on Khmer cuisine, with a thoughtful wine list (ask manager Patrick Uong for wine recommendations).

Address:
277 Sisowath Quay,
Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Telephone: +855 23 224 894

Website: http://www.thequayhotel.com