Recipe for Life: Sam Lek

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For decades, Cambodian refugee Sambonn Lek, has poured, shaken and stirred drinks as a legendary bartender in Washington, D.C.

While behind the bar, Sam, as he’s fondly known, enjoys showcasing his signature magic tricks.

But, perhaps his greatest act has been creating Sam Relief, a nonprofit group that builds schools, digs wells and provides rice to those in need in his native Cambodia. 

You can try Sam’s iconic cocktails, “Sam I Am” and the “Capitol Mary”, at home.