Restaurant creates a living Cambodian style

Photo by: TRACEY SHELTON

SO

much of Cambodia's culture is bound nostalgia that it's refreshing to

enter a space where the design styles are wholly Cambodian and

absolutely alive. Malis restaurant balances wide airy spaces with deep

rich wood and stone creating a lively contrast, the effect of which is

stunning.

"It's not old, it's not fusion, it's not modern... it's

living. We don't forget the old, and we are not going too far into the

new," says Malis executive chef Luu Meng.

Lighted pillars stand at

the front of the restaurant behind which is an open courtyard and a

trio of fishponds. Dark wood tables are set up around the courtyard

under the overhanging tiled eves of the renovated villa. Malis is a

union of inside and outside spaces spanning three levels. The top two

floors harbour elegant private dining areas and balconies.

Plants

and trees are ubiquitous throughout. Champe trees twist out of lush

green grass and oversized vases with bamboo line the walkways of the

dining areas. The sound of fountains in the fishponds along with soft

lighting creates a serene ambiance.

Hand-woven Khmer silk fabrics

cover lampshades and chair cushions, and locally made tiles adorn the

floors. Malis Restaurant is elegant in design and succeeds in creating

a living Cambodian style.