7 October 2026 – The annual list of The 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, was unveiled this evening as part of a live awards ceremony in Milan, Italy. Now in its 18th edition, the awards once again united the global bar community in recognition of the bartenders, bar owners and brands at the forefront of the international cocktail scene.
The full list of The 50 Best Bars 2026 is attached.
The list of The 50 Best Bars 2026 features venues from an impressive 26 cities, with Hong Kong’s Bar Leone crowned The Best Bar in Asia and The World’s Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier. This is the second time the bar, which was the first ever No.1 from Asia in 2025, has taken the top spot.
Bar Leone has quickly established itself as one of Hong Kong's defining cocktail destinations, bringing a slice of Roman drinking culture to the city's Central neighbourhood. Co-founded by Italian bartender Lorenzo Antinori, the venue draws inspiration from the traditional bars found in Rome’s Trastevere district. Rather than chasing trends or theatrical techniques, the bar’s philosophy of Cocktail Popolari – translating from the Italian as "cocktails for the people" - focuses on straightforward hospitality and impeccably made drinks while the design reflects Antinori's roots, combining vintage Italian references with a welcoming neighbourhood atmosphere. Wood finishes, football memorabilia and nostalgic décor create an informal setting that feels authentic and lived-in, encouraging repeat visits as much as special occasions.
Together with his team, Antinori has built a drinks programme centred on expertly executed classics, many featuring Italian influences and premium ingredients. Signature serves sit alongside popular snacks such as smoked olives and a mortadella sandwich. Since opening in 2023, Bar Leone's rise has been remarkable. The bar made history by debuting at No.1 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2024, retained the regional crown in 2025, and went on to be named The World's Best Bar in 2025 after placing No.2 globally the previous year.
Faye Huggett, Director of Community for The 50 Best Bars, says: “It is with immense pride that we once again announce Bar Leone as The World’s Best Bar 2026, sponsored by Perrier. To be the first ever No.1 from Asia was already an outstanding achievement, of which Lorenzo and his team are hugely deserving, but to retain the title for a second consecutive year shows the true impact of Cocktail Popolari. Beyond the No.1, this year's rankings are a powerful reflection of the extraordinary talent, dedication and hospitality that continue to elevate bar culture around the world. We are delighted to celebrate the teams whose passion and innovation have earned them a place on the list, while also recognising the diversity and dynamism of today's global drinks landscape. From internationally renowned destinations to rising stars making their mark, these bars represent the very best of what the industry has to offer and will, we hope, provide endless inspiration for cocktail lovers everywhere."
Bars in Europe lead and Paris takes the continental crown
For the first time ever, Paris has overtaken London to become Europe's most represented cocktail destination, and is tied globally for the city with the most bars, with four venues, accounting for almost a quarter of the continent's 18 entries: The Cambridge Public House (No.13), Bar Nouveau (No.15), new entry De Vie (No.23) and Danico (No.26).
Following closely behind, each with three bars on the list, are London and Athens. In the UK capital, Connaught Bar sits at No.8 and Satan’s Whisker’s at No.29, joined by new entrant Waltz at No.32, while Edinburgh’s Panda & Sons claimed the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award. Athens is represented by Line (No.5) and The Bar in Front of the Bar (No.19), which climbed 28 places to secure the Nikka Highest Climber Award and newcomer Barro Negro (No.40).
The title of The Best Bar in Europe 2026, sponsored by Torres Brandy, goes to Milan’s Moebius Milano, which ranks No.2. Elsewhere in Italy, Locale Firenze is No.33. In Spain, Barcelona’s Sips and Paradiso are at No.16 and No.17, respectively, while Paradiso was honoured with the Rémy Martin Legend of the List Award. In Madrid, Angelita enters the ranking at No.50.
Across the rest of Europe, Himkok in Oslo is No.24 while Bratislava’s Mirror Bar is No.34 and Tirana’s Nouvelle Vague is No.43.
New York leads the Americas
With four bars on the list, New York once again demonstrates the depth of its cocktail scene, securing joint first place as the most represented city in the ranking. New entry and winner of the Three Cents Best New Opening Award, Schmuck debuts at No.11, alongside Sip & Guzzle (No.14), fellow newcomer Bar Snack (No.49) and Martiny’s (No.46). The city's influence was further recognised when Martiny’s co-founder and Beverage Director Takuma Watanabe was named Altos Bartenders’ Bartender last month.
Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy claims the title of The Best Bar in North America, sponsored by Monkey Shoulder at No.6. The city also boasts Bar Mauro at No.10, winner of the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award and Tlecān at No.47. El Gallo Altanero in Guadalajara returns to the ranking at No.28.
In South America, Cartagena’s Alquímico is named The Best Bar in South America at No.3, following its recent recognition as the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award winner. In Medellín, Mamba Negra and Bar Carmen take No.22 and No.39, respectively. In Lima, Lady Bee continues its rise, moving up three places to No.9 and is joined by Sastrería Martinez (No.37). New entry Exímia debuts at No.20 alongside São Paulo neighbour Tan Tan at No.35. Buenos Aires favourite Tres Monos is at No.21 accompanied by new entry Victor Audio Bar at No.31.
Hong Kong dominates in Asia but Bangkok closes gap
Hong Kong has reclaimed its status as Asia's leading cocktail city, placing four bars in the ranking. Leading the charge is Bar Leone, ranked No.1 and retaining the titles of The World's Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier and The Best Bar in Asia. The city also welcomes back Argo at No.25 and celebrates two new entries: Montana at No.36 and Gokan at No.41. The latter’s founder, Shingo Gokan, was also honoured with the Roku Industry Icon Award. Hope & Sesame in Guangzhou ranks No.12.
With three bars in the top 50, Bangkok remains close behind Hong Kong. Bar Us secures No.4, while new entry Dry Wave Cocktail Studio debuts at No.27 alongside BKK Social Club at No.30. Seoul’s Zest is at No.7.
Both Singapore and Tokyo place two bars in the ranking, represented by: Jigger & Pony (No.18), Nutmeg & Clove (No.38), Bar Benfiddich (No.44) and Virtù (No.48).
Best in Destination titles for bars in Dubai, Melbourne and, for the first time, Accra
Retaining their titles for 2026 is Dubai’s Mimi Kakushi, The Best Bar in the Middle East, sponsored by Mancino Vermouth, at No.42 and Melbourne’s Caretaker’s Cottage, The Best Bar in Australasia, sponsored by Mr Black, at No.45. The evening also saw Front/Back in Accra crowned The Best Bar in Africa 2026, sponsored by LAV HORECA. The venue, ranked at No.80, is one of two new entries from the city's capital to make the extended list, announced a fortnight ago, marking the Accra’s first-ever appearance in the ranking.
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