Botanico Craft Beer Garden: A Key Players in Cambodia’s Craft Beer Revolution

Botanico Craft Beer Garden

Botanico Craft Beer Garden is more than just a place to enjoy an exceptional brew; it’s a thriving community hub, an oasis of relaxation, and a pioneering force in Cambodia’s craft beer scene.

Born from a passion for quality beer and a desire to create a shared space for art, music, and social gatherings, Botanico has blossomed into a cherished green haven in the city’s center.

Speaking on the formation of the beer garden, Marco Günther said the journey began with a simple realization: Cambodia was in need of good beer. This insight led Erich, the original founder, along with his friends, to start brewing their own beer at home.

“Originally, Botanico was set up to give a home to the craft beer produced in a small production facility in Toul Tompong. And from the beginning on, the focus was always on creating community space. We hosted art exhibitions, get-togethers, live music, art workshops for kids and adults, charity events, quizzes and much more. People love the fact that this is a really green space which is quite rare in the center of Phnom Penh.



“What started as a hobby among friends quickly evolved into a mission to share their creations with a broader audience. Fast forward ten years, and Botanico now proudly houses its brewery on the same premises, ensuring that patrons can enjoy freshly brewed beer steps away from where it’s crafted,” he said.

In August 2023, a new chapter began for Botanico with the addition of Marco as a new partner to the business. With a background as a brewmaster, he has injected a fresh focus on the craft, aiming to elevate Botanico Brewing Company (the brewery’s future name) to new heights.

“I want to help establishing a real Cambodian craft beer scene and make the whole movement driven by Cambodians, using as many locally grown ingredients as possible. On top of that, we are eager to educate the people about craft beer, explaining the difference to industrial beer, also in terms of health benefits and eventually trying to change the mindset of the people, viewing beer as a stimulant, something that creates a unique experience, rather than a means of getting drunk.”

He said he enjoys working in the Cambodian craft beer business, because it is a great community of like-minded people that support each other.

He added, “Honestly, I stay at Botanico almost all day, every day. Not because I have to, but because I love to. I fell in love with this place and the environment. And it’s also quite nice to enjoy the beer that I designed in the evening!”

Indeed, Botanico’s ethos extends beyond simply brewing beer; it’s about redefining the beer experience in Cambodia. Education plays a crucial role in this mission, as Botanico aims to enlighten the public about the nuances of craft beer, highlighting its health benefits over industrial alternatives and promoting responsible consumption.

9B St 29, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
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+85577943135

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Tom Starkey
Author: Tom Starkey

Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.