Jakarta has strengthened its position on Asia’s cocktail map, with four bars earning places on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026 list. Announced at a ceremony held at Wynn Palace, Macau, the annual ranking recognised bars across 22 cities in Asia, with Jakarta represented by Modernhaus, Cosmo Pony, Carrots Bar, and The Golden Tooth.
Leading Jakarta’s presence on the list is Modernhaus, which ranked No.11 and was named The Best Bar in Indonesia 2026, sponsored by Monkey Shoulder. Located in Jakarta, the bar was recognised for its stylish living room-inspired space and ingredient-focused cocktail philosophy that highlights Indonesia’s diverse natural resources.
Following Modernhaus, Cosmo Pony at Grand Hyatt Jakarta ranked No.15, continuing its reputation as a cosmopolitan cocktail destination. Carrots Bar placed at No.21, recognised for its intimate setting and culinary-focused cocktail programme. Meanwhile, newcomer The Golden Tooth in Melawai, South Jakarta, debuted at No.40, earning recognition for its relaxed New York-style “cocktail and chats” concept.
Beyond the Top 50 ranking, Jakarta’s growing cocktail scene was further highlighted through Hats Bar, which received the Campari One To Watch Award 2026. The award recognises emerging bars with growing influence and potential within the regional cocktail community.
Across Asia, Hope & Sesame in Guangzhou claimed the top position, earning the title of The Best Bar in Asia 2026, sponsored by Perrier. The Guangzhou speakeasy also became The Best Bar in Mainland China, marking a milestone year for China’s cocktail scene with seven bars making the Top 50 list.
Other major results included Zest in Seoul ranking No.2 and being named The Best Bar in Korea for the third consecutive year, while last year’s No.1 bar Bar Leone in Hong Kong ranked No.3 and retained its title as The Best Bar in Hong Kong, sponsored by Amaro Lucano.
Bangkok continued its position as one of Asia’s leading cocktail capitals, with eight bars placing on the Top 50 list. Dry Wave Cocktail Studio ranked No.4 and was named The Best Bar in Thailand, while Bar Us placed No.6 and received the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award. New entrant Lennon’s debuted at No.7, receiving the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award, while Bar Sathorn climbed 31 places to No.17, earning the Nikka Highest Climber Award.
Singapore maintained a strong presence with four bars on the list, led by Jigger & Pony at No.9, which was named The Best Bar in Singapore, sponsored by Back to the Roots. Its co-founder Indra Kantono also received the Roku Industry Icon Award 2026 for his contribution to Asia’s cocktail industry.
The 2026 ranking also highlighted the continued growth of emerging cocktail destinations across Asia. Workshop14 in Hanoi ranked No.34, earning both The Best Bar in Vietnam title and the Three Cents Best New Opening Award. Meanwhile, Problem Child in Makati entered at No.44 and was named The Best Bar in the Philippines, while Smoke & Bitters in Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka, ranked No.29 and received both The Best Bar in Sri Lanka and the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award.
The Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026 list featured 14 new entries and two re-entries, reflecting the continued development of cocktail culture across the region. According to Faye Huggett, Director of Community at Asia’s 50 Best Bars, this year’s ranking highlights how the region’s bar scene is expanding beyond traditional capitals, with new cities and emerging concepts contributing to Asia’s evolving hospitality landscape.
The annual ranking is voted on by more than 300 independent Academy members across Asia and celebrates bars that demonstrate creativity, hospitality, and influence within the region’s cocktail community.
