Barbados, also spelled Bar Bados, is one of the long-standing hostess bars in Phnom Penh. While many of the current bars in the city have popped up in recent years, this particular spot has been around for nearly a decade, if not longer. I can’t pinpoint the exact year it opened, but it’s definitely been part of the local nightlife for at least nine years.

Hostess bars are now common throughout Phnom Penh and even in some smaller cities like Siem Reap, but this wasn’t always the case. In the past, only a few well-known spots existed, many of which have since closed down. As new places have opened, some have successfully carried on the tradition, while others have faded into obscurity.

Although hostess bars can seem alike at first glance, with so many around, careful observation reveals subtle differences. While many bars fit the typical mold, others manage to stand out from the crowd.

What sets Bar Bados apart There are a couple of reasons why Bar Bados stands out. One of these is something anyone visiting could notice, while the other is more personal to me. I'll do my best to provide an objective review, though my personal experience may play a role in shaping my opinion.

To start, Bar Bados is one of the smallest hostess bars in Phnom Penh. The bar is so compact that it brings to mind the cozy, cramped bars of Tokyo. At the back, the ceiling is incredibly low, meaning anyone over average height risks hitting their head. Despite the limited space, the bar still manages to fill up with a good number of hostesses.

The second reason the bar is memorable is more personal. Over the years, I’ve visited countless bars and met countless women in various parts of the world. However, one of the most memorable women I’ve ever encountered, in terms of physical appearance, worked at Bar Bados years ago. She had, quite frankly, the most impressive natural figure I’ve ever seen—a memory that has stayed with me, even though she’s long gone from the bar.

Staff and final thoughts While that particular hostess has since moved on, Bar Bados still maintains a high ratio of women compared to its small size. It’s not uncommon for there to be more hostesses than male patrons or even available seats, which is always a plus for customers looking to socialize.

In most other respects, Bar Bados operates like a traditional hostess bar. The prices for lady drinks are reasonable, and the barfine system is in place, with many of the women more than willing to spend time with customers outside of the bar. It’s a welcoming place where the women aren’t standoffish or uninterested in interacting with guests.

For me, Bar Bados holds a certain nostalgic charm. It represents a glimpse of Phnom Penh’s nightlife as it existed a decade ago, back when bars like this were few and far between. Of course, my personal memories might make me view it more fondly than someone who visits for the first time today, but I can’t deny the lasting impression it left on me—both for its cozy atmosphere and for that unforgettable encounter.