Meet Tyka Chheng

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyka Chheng.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born and raised in Long Beach, California by refugee parents from Cambodia which was a war-torn country at that time. My parents had worked in the food and beverage industry while I was growing up so I was surrounded by it by default. Growing up in the southern part of LA introduced me to the diversity of culture and unbelievable food all around. I started as a chef quickly after high school and later moved on to the beverage side of things and fell in love with both atmospheres. I moved to Phoenix, Arizona about a few years ago to start a new venture with food and beverage and see what is was all. about and fell in love with the culture and people here. Now I am the Beverage Director for Gallo Blanco in downtown Phoenix which resides in the historic Garfield district.

Please tell us about your art.
I am currently the resident Chef for a company I run with my Partner Robbie Weyers (manager/somm of Quiessence at the farm) where we create platforms for Chefs, Bartenders, and artists alike. We created this company in order to be able to give voices to the upcoming chefs and bartenders and artists. Where we all can come together and collaborate. Giving not only our artist but phoenix as a whole something to look forward within our booming industry.

I am also the Bar Manager for Gallo Blanco Cafe y Bar where we create Latin inspired cocktails and give our downtown and historic Garfield community a safe place to hang, enjoy the fruit of Mexico and inspired art from around our community.

I hope everyone is able to take away a piece of not only me but also the forming art and atmosphere of our incredible talents that is Phoenix and what makes Phoenix what it is.

Given everything that is going on in the world today, do you think the role of artists has changed? How do local, national or international events and issues affect your art?
I think there is difference all areas, where locally a lot of our artists are focus in what’s happening within our neighborhood. Nationally and internationally are more focused on what’s happening globally, where I’m not saying they aren’t focused on what’s happening around them. Its just bigger scales call for bigger pictures. Which I believe a lot of local artist strive to be on the scale.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can come visit us at Gallo Blanco Cafe y Bar.

Follow our Instagram

Myself: @tykaschoice

Pop up collective @phxdc (phoenixdinerscollective.com)

Bar Team Collective @phxoutlawcartel

Restaurant @galloblancocafe

Contact Info:

• Address: 928 e Pierce st 85004 Phoenix Arizona Gallo Blanco Cafe y Bar
• Website: phoenixdinerscollective.com
• Email: chhengsaratyka@gmail.com
• Instagram: @tykaschoice

Image Credit:
Gallo Blanco Cafe Y bar
Richard Allison (Root Bitters)

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