Alaska Bar 136

Alaska Bar is just one of the many hostess bars scattered around Phnom Penh. It’s been operating for several years, but it remains relatively unnoticed, mostly because it doesn’t really distinguish itself from the others.

Street 136 has become a hotspot for bars, with a variety of venues lining both sides of the street. The local bar scene has grown immensely, extending from the riverside to several blocks inland. Places like Chhing’s have even popped up further afield.

Standing out in this crowded market isn’t easy. Some bars make a splash with special events, large staffs, or exclusive hires. Alaska Bar, however, sticks to the basics—offering a few ladies and drinks without any frills.

That said, Alaska Bar isn’t in bad shape. The place is well-maintained, and you’ll find the usual assortment of drinks. It’s just that there’s nothing particularly memorable about it. Maybe my long history covering the adult entertainment scene has made me a bit cynical, but that’s the reality here.

Alaska Bar has a classic dive bar vibe. It’s a compact space with standard bar seating, bathed in the glow of pink rope lights. You can get a good look at the entire bar just by peeking through the door.

You’ll find it on the north side of Street 136, just one block back from the riverside. A large English sign marks it, but otherwise, it blends right in. There’s a dance pole that rarely gets used and a pool table tucked away in the back under a low ceiling.

On a typical night, Alaska Bar has about a dozen women working. They’re mostly in their twenties, with a few older ones here and there. The majority are fit and attractive, though there are a few who aren’t as glamorous. Still, everyone’s trying to make a living, and beauty is subjective.

The staff at Alaska Bar are generally friendly and approachable, though they can be a bit reserved. There’s a lack of pushiness, which is always a nice touch. In my experience, aggressive behavior isn’t common in Cambodia, but Alaska Bar is especially laid-back in this regard.

Prices are pretty standard for the area. Beers are $3.50, lady drinks are $4 each, and the bar fine is the usual $10. If a lady agrees to leave with a customer, the typical range is $50 to $100, depending on the situation.

Alaska Bar shares similarities with many older establishments in Phnom Penh. While it doesn’t offer anything new or exciting, it’s reliable and consistent.