The World’s 50 Best Bars 2025, sponsored by Perrier, was unveiled at a live awards ceremony in Hong Kong, bringing together the global bar community for its 17th edition. This year marks a historic moment as Bar Leone in Hong Kong is named The World’s Best Bar and The Best Bar in Asia, the first time a bar from the region has claimed the No.1 position.
Nestled in Hong Kong’s Central district, Bar Leone is led by Lorenzo Antinori, known for his tenure at iconic venues such as The American Bar at The Savoy and Dandelyan in London. Drawing from his Roman roots, Antinori created Bar Leone around the idea of cocktail popolari—cocktails for the people—celebrating simplicity, approachability, and community. Opened in 2023, the bar quickly rose to prominence, debuting at No.2 globally and No.1 in Asia in 2024, before securing the world’s top honor this year.
Emma Sleight, Head of Content for The World’s 50 Best Bars, said, “It is such a delight to unveil Bar Leone as The World’s Best Bar 2025. This achievement not only represents a milestone for Asia but also a testament to Lorenzo and his team’s dedication to redefining hospitality and accessibility.”
Global Highlights
The 2025 list includes bars from 29 cities worldwide, with eight new entries spanning Athens, Bratislava, Guangzhou, Lima, New York, Oslo, Tirana, and Tokyo. Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City ranked second, followed by Sips in Barcelona at third, which also earned co-founder Simone Caporale the Roku Industry Icon Award.
Other major honors include Bratislava’s Mirror Bar (No.25) winning the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award, Moebius Milano (No.7) earning the Nikka Highest Climber Award, and Backdoor Bodega in Penang receiving the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award.
Regional Highlights
London remains Europe’s cocktail capital with four entries, while Barcelona’s Sips retains its title as The Best Bar in Europe, sponsored by Monkey Shoulder. In the Americas, Handshake Speakeasy is named The Best Bar in North America, and Tres Monos in Buenos Aires retains The Best Bar in South America.
Across Asia, Tokyo continues to shine with Bar Benfiddich (No.18) and The Bellwood (No.48), alongside Singapore’s Jigger & Pony (No.9), Bangkok’s Bar Us (No.15), and Penang’s Backdoor Bodega, which won for its innovative menu.
For the first time, Mimi Kakushi in Dubai (No.36) is recognized as The Best Bar in the Middle East, while Hero Bar in Nairobi earns The Best Bar in Africa distinction. In Australia, Caretaker’s Cottage in Melbourne (No.19) retains its title as The Best Bar in Australasia, and Tigra + Disco Pantera in Sydney takes home the Best Bar Design Award.
A Global Celebration of Cocktail Culture
The World’s 50 Best Bars 2025 once again highlights the diversity and creativity shaping the international bar landscape. With Hong Kong now leading the global stage, Asia continues to assert its influence in redefining the art of mixology and hospitality.
