The most popular drink at the Raffles Elephant Bar is a Champagne cocktail called the Femme Fatale. Hotel staff say it was invented for former US first lady Jacqueline Kennedy, who visited Cambodia in 1967 to see Angkor Wat.

They say her lipstick remains on the glass, which is on display at the popular bar. Staff admit, however, to occasionally touching it up with lipstick from waitresses.

“I want them to use dark, blood red next,” jokes Charles Demange, Raffles’ high-spirited food and beverage director.

The cocktail was invented for the first lady and matched her shade of lipstick, he says.

“The Femme Fatale gives you a taste of history. It is a little bit feminine and delicate like Jacqueline Kennedy was,” Demange says, referring to its pink colour and the fresh purple orchid, imported from Thailand, which sits delicately on the rim of the glass.

When you sip from the tall, thin stemmed glass, the feint scent of the orchid transcends into a soft, flowery taste on your tongue.

The champagne sparkles in your mouth, while the cognac brings a sweet sip with a slightly bitter overhang.  

“The strength of the cognac balances with the lightness of the champagne,” Demange says.  

The cocktail is most popular with ladies during afternoon tea, according to Demange. “It’s refreshing, smooth and light enough for the day,” he says.

Cost: US$10, Happy hour $5

Ingredients: Champagne, Cognac, Crème De Fraise Sauvage

Address: Elephant Bar at Raffles Hotel le Royal, near Wat Phnom