Island Bar stands out as one of the more infamous hostess bars in Phnom Penh, particularly for those who prefer a more risqué and adult-focused experience. Unlike some of the newer establishments like Honeypot, which are more geared towards casual conversation and shared drinks, Island Bar caters to patrons seeking more intimate encounters.

The bar has been a fixture in Phnom Penh for quite some time, although its exact opening date remains unclear. It’s been around for at least seven or eight years, possibly even longer. When I first wrote about it in an overview of the city’s hostess bars years ago, I noted its reputation for being a place where most of the women were quite willing to leave with customers with minimal persuasion. That still holds true today, and now I have the chance to provide a more detailed look at the venue.

Island Bar on Street 118 Island Bar is easy to overlook at first glance. Situated on a quiet stretch of Street 118, just a short walk from the riverside, the venue doesn’t stand out much. Its simple white sign blends into the neighborhood, and the only clue that it’s a hostess bar might be the women sitting outside. However, this scene is common across Phnom Penh, so you could easily miss it if you’re not paying attention.

Stepping inside, the bar has a dark and somewhat worn-out atmosphere. The walls are painted black, and the seating is basic at best. On one side of the room, there’s a bar, while on the other, shabby tables and chairs offer a place to sit. A television often plays music videos from the early 2000s, adding to the slightly outdated feel of the place.

What really draws people to Island Bar, however, is not the décor or ambiance—it’s the women. With a reputation for being eager to please, the hostesses here are the main attraction. While not every visitor is guaranteed a dream encounter, enough men have left satisfied that the bar’s notoriety is well earned.

The staff and overall experience Over the years, I’ve made several visits to Island Bar, and it hasn’t changed much. You won’t find many drop-dead gorgeous women here, but rather a mix of average-looking hostesses, with a few older women also in the mix. Behind the bar, an effeminate man handles the drinks, while a couple of ladyboys are part of the staff as well. Most of the time, their presence is pretty obvious, though I imagine some men might not notice at first. There’s even talk of a post-op ladyboy who works at the bar, and if she’s who I think she is, she could easily pass as a woman.

The ladies—and ladyboys—at Island Bar are generally open to accepting barfines and accompanying customers out. Some are even willing to get a bit more hands-on right at the bar, depending on the situation. This doesn’t happen with every customer who walks through the door, but it’s common enough to be noteworthy. Island Bar is one of the few places in the city where this sort of thing happens with regularity.

When it comes to pricing, Island Bar isn’t excessive. Drinks are reasonably priced, and the women aren’t aggressive about trying to get customers to spend money or beg for tips. It’s a straightforward establishment with a clear focus on giving guys what they’re after without a lot of hassle.

In conclusion, Island Bar may not be glamorous, but it serves its purpose. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, adult-oriented hostess bar with willing staff and reasonable prices, this place fits the bill. It’s far from fancy, but for some, it’s exactly what they’re looking for.