World’s 50 Best Bars 2024: Winners Revealed

Asia Takes the Crown: Bar Leone Named World’s Best Bar in 2025

A new era in global mixology has begun, with Bar Leone in Hong Kong claiming the title of World’s best Bar at the prestigious 2025 awards ceremony held in Hong Kong.This marks the first time an Asian establishment has topped the list, signaling a shift in the center of cocktail culture.

Did you know?-The World’s 50 Best Bars list began in 2009, aiming to recognize and celebrate exceptional bars and bartenders globally. The ranking is based on votes from a global academy of experts.

The Rise of Asian Mixology

The annual list, compiled by the World’s 50 Best Bars, celebrates innovation and excellence in the cocktail industry worldwide. This year’s results showcase the growing influence of Asian bars, with Hong Kong leading the charge. Last year’s runner-up, Bar Leone, has ascended to the top spot, lauded for its simple yet elegant approach.

“Bar leone is a tribute to the neighbourhood bars of Rome, where locals gather for coffee, aperitivi and casual conversation,” according to the awards description.Italian co-founder Lorenzo Antinori has successfully translated the concept of ‘cocktail popolari’ – or ‘cocktails of the people’ – into a world-class experience.Patrons can expect a welcoming atmosphere, expertly crafted drinks, and even the opportunity to recreate signature cocktails at home.

Pro tip:-When exploring new cocktail bars, don’t hesitate to ask the bartender for recommendations. They can tailor drinks to your preferences and offer insights into the bar’s unique offerings.

North America and Europe shine

Beyond Asia’s triumph, North America and europe also secured prominent positions on the list. Handshake Speakeasy in mexico City earned the title of Best bar in North America, captivating judges with its dazzling, prohibition-era inspired décor and innovative menu. The bar offers two distinct experiences: a lively basement with a hip-hop soundtrack and a more intimate setting for classic craft cocktails like their renowned Fig Martini and three Sips Martini.

Barcelona demonstrated its strength in the cocktail world with two entries in the top five. Sips, maintaining its number three ranking from 2024, was also named The best Bar in Europe 2025.The bar is celebrated for its innovative presentations and bold flavors, with drinks like The Nixtamil described as a complete experience – beginning with a red fruit reduction licked from a mirror.

Paradiso, a previous winner in 2022, continues to impress with its theatrical and multi-sensory approach to mixology. Entering this Barcelona hotspot requires walking through a fridge door in a pastrami shop, revealing a uniquely designed space reminiscent of the inside of a whale.

London’s Dual-Personality Bar Rounds Out the Top Five

Rounding out the top five is Tayēr + Elementary in London.this unique establishment operates as two distinct bars under one roof. elementary offers a relaxed, industrial-style space with cocktails on tap, while Tayēr provides a more intimate, low-li

Reader question:-What impact do you think the increasing popularity of non-alcoholic cocktails will have on the future of the bar industry? Share your thoughts!

Explanation of Changes & Answers to Questions:

* Why: The article reports on the results of the 2025 World’s Best Bars awards, specifically the historic win of Bar Leone in Hong Kong as the first Asian bar to claim the top spot. It also highlights the continued excellence of bars in north America and Europe.
* Who: Key players include Bar Leone (Hong Kong), Lorenzo Antinori (co-founder of Bar Leone), Handshake Speakeasy (Mexico City), sips and Paradiso (Barcelona), and Tay