The World’s 50 Best Bars 2025 ceremony, sponsored by Perrier, made history on 8th October 2025 in Hong Kong.
For the very first time, the coveted No. 1 spot was awarded to an Asian venue.
Bar Leone Makes History
Bar Leone in Hong Kong, created by renowned bartender Lorenzo Antinori, was crowned both The World’s Best Bar 2025 and The Best Bar in Asia 2025. Since opening in June 2023, Bar Leone has risen rapidly, previously securing No. 1 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 and No. 2 on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024. Its philosophy of “cocktails for the people” shines through in its exceptional yet straightforward drinks, served in a warm, approachable space that evokes the charm of 1980s and 1990s Rome.
A Global Perspective
This year’s list, featuring bars from 29 cities, highlights the richness and diversity of the cocktail scene. Europe maintains a strong presence, with London leading the continent and Barcelona’s Sips winning Best Bar in Europe for the third consecutive year. Across the Atlantic, Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy claimed the Best Bar in North America title, while Tres Monos in Buenos Aires took the crown for South America.
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Singapore Shines Bright
In Asia, Hong Kong is a clear star with Bar Leone and Coa, but Singapore continues to impress. Jigger & Pony climbed to No. 9, reaffirming its position as one of Asia’s finest bars. Other standout venues, including Atlas, Analogue Initiative, and Nutmeg & Clove, push the boundaries with innovative cocktails, stunning interiors, and impeccable service. For local readers, it’s a reminder that world-class mixology doesn’t require traveling far — some of the best experiences are right at home. Guangzhou also made its debut with Hope & Sesame at No. 29, signaling the rise of new talent across the region.
Celebrating Excellence
Special awards this year recognized outstanding achievement and innovation. Simone Caporale of Sips received the Roku Industry Icon Award, Moebius Milano in Milan impressed with the Nikka Highest Climber Award, and Bratislava’s Mirror Bar celebrated its first-ever appearance with the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award. Design and sustainability were also honored, with Sydney’s Tigra + Disco Pantera winning Best Bar Design, and The Cambridge Public House in Paris recognized as the first independent bar to achieve B Corp certification, taking home the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award.
Looking Ahead
As the final glasses were raised in Hong Kong, the message was clear: the world’s cocktail scene is growing, evolving, and embracing excellence everywhere. Singapore’s thriving bars, led by Jigger & Pony, Atlas, and others, prove that Asia is at the forefront of this global movement.
Bar Leone’s victory is more than a title; it’s an invitation for curious drinkers everywhere to embark on their own journeys of discovery, igniting wanderlust and promising unforgettable experiences, one perfectly crafted cocktail at a time.
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