For nearly 30 years, Topaz has been a symbol of French culinary brilliance in Phnom Penh’s lively core. Its journey, deeply rooted in tradition yet always embracing innovation, now unfolds in two exquisite settings.

Proudly standing among the elite, owner Arnaud Darc and his teams ensure an unparalleled dining experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of dynamic Phnom Penh, whether through Topaz Norodom‘s sophistication or Topaz TheCommune‘s contemporary flair.

Arnaud first arrived in Cambodia in 1994 on an internship as a Cost Controller for Sofitel Cambodiana. He served with the Accor group for three years before taking a leap and moving on to his own ventures, including co-founding Topaz in 1997.

Commenting on how the restaurant has remained the beacon of French culinary brilliance, Arnaud Darc, who is a Chargé de Missions in the Bailliage of Cambodia, observed, “At Topaz, we tirelessly curate events that spotlight talents, offering innovative, intriguing takes on French cuisine, enriching and tantalizing the culinary journey. Numerous Michelin-starred chefs have joined us to celebrate and impart their knowledge, drawn by our commitment to discovery and self-improvement.”

He continued, “At Topaz, our essence is deeply rooted in the celebration of classical traditions that form the backbone of one of the world’s most esteemed cuisines. Our homage to these time-honoured principles is expressed through our unwavering commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients available. We forge lasting partnerships with premier producers and suppliers, spanning from the lush landscapes of France to the vibrant coastlines of Cambodia, ensuring that every dish we serve is a testament to our dedication to culinary excellence.

While Topaz proudly embodies the sophistication of French gastronomy, its heart beats with the warmth of Cambodian hospitality. The restaurant is passionately invested in nurturing the talents of the next generation, cultivating the skills of young chefs, managers, and team members. Topaz is more than a restaurant; it is a cradle of culinary education and a beacon of cultural fusion, where the future of gastronomy is shaped with care, respect, and an eye towards innovation.”

When next in Phnom Penh experience the art of exquisite dining at Topaz. The culinary masterpieces and elegant ambiance create an unforgettable dining experience. It is no wonder therefore that the Bailliage of Cambodia chose Topaz to host its 2024 Chapitre on May 25th at which Joe Prasobsook Thawilvejjakul, Member of the Conseil d’Administration from Thailand, was the Inducting Officer.

Prepared by a Chaîne News Online Staff Writer
Researched principally from the Topaz website. E&OE

Other Chaîne members at Topaz
- Maître Restaurateur Eden Gnean - General Manager
- Maître Restaurateur Lina Hak - Director of Operations
- Maître Rôtisseur Pov Sopheak - Executive Chef, Topaz Norodom
- Maître Rôtisseur Phyra Hem - Executive Chef, Topaz TheCommune

Topaz Norodom
162 Preah Norodom Blvd
Phnom Penh 12302

Web: topaz.thalias.com.kh
Tel: +855 15 821 888
E-mail: [email protected]

Topaz TheCommune
1st Floor, TheCommune
15 Street 347
Phnom Penh 12151

Web: topaz.thalias.com.kh/venues/topaz-thecommune
Tel: +855 15 413 888
E-mail: [email protected]

POSTSCRIPT
Alain Darc (1942-2023)
Born into a venerable lineage of chefs, Arnaud’s father Alain Darc was a custodian of culinary wisdom, a treasure trove of skills honed under the tutelage of illustrious French mentors. After a long and illustrious career driven by a mission to promote French cuisine across the globe, “Papa” Darc arrived in Cambodia in 2005 and soon joined the team as Executive Chef at Topaz. Away from the kitchen, he devoted his life to the enrichment of local culinary arts, significantly through his heartfelt work with the NGO “Pour Un Sourire d'Enfant”.