The World’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, will reveal its annual list during a live awards ceremony at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal in Hong Kong on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. In collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, this marks the 17th edition of the prestigious ranking, which highlights the top bars, bartenders, and cocktail cities worldwide.

Returning to Asia once again, the event will bring together leading figures from the global bar community to celebrate excellence in the cocktail industry. The list, determined by a panel of more than 700 bartenders, consultants, writers, and cocktail experts, is independently adjudicated by Deloitte and features an equal gender representation.

 

Emma Sleight, Head of Content for The World’s 50 Best Bars, expressed excitement about the ceremony’s location: “We are thrilled to bring The World’s 50 Best Bars ceremony to the incredible city of Hong Kong, whose bar scene continues to grow and develop year on year. As we gather to celebrate another phenomenal year in the global cocktail industry, we look forward to inspiring cocktail lovers worldwide to discover their new favorite bar and join us in honoring the finest establishments around the world.”

Dane Cheng, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Tourism Board, emphasized Hong Kong’s role as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts. “Entering the second year of the three-year partnership between HKTB and 50 Best, Hong Kong is set to welcome the biggest names in the global bar scene for the first time. The bar scene in Hong Kong reflects the city’s rich cultural tapestry and forward-thinking spirit, making it a must-visit destination for cocktail lovers worldwide.”

 

The event will feature a range of highlights, including the Bartenders’ Feast on the evening before the ceremony for those whose establishments are ranked. The awards ceremony will include a red-carpet arrival, a drinks reception, and a live countdown revealing The World’s 50 Best Bars 2025, culminating in the announcement of The World’s Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier.

Ahead of the event, 50 Best will announce winners of two special awards:

  • Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award: Chosen by all members of The World’s 50 Best Bars Academy, recognizing the venue that provided the best hospitality experience during the voting period.
  • Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award: Voted for by bartenders featured on the list, honoring an individual who has significantly contributed to the craft of bartending.

Additionally, the extended 51-100 list will be revealed on 50 Best’s website and social media channels.

Other awards to be announced at the ceremony include:

  • Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award: Recognizing the best menu concept and execution.
  • Best Bar Design Award: Celebrating outstanding aesthetic and functional bar design.
  • 50 Best Bars Scholarship: Offering a young bartender the opportunity to train at two top-ranked bars on the list. Details on how to apply will be released in the coming months.

The ceremony will be broadcast live globally via The World’s 50 Best Bars TV channel on YouTube, allowing cocktail enthusiasts worldwide to tune in and celebrate the best of the industry.