#London #United Kingdom #Special Awards #50 Best Bars #Academy Chairs

Introduction

The anticipation is building as 50 Best, the organization renowned for its significant contributions to the global bar culture, gears up for its inaugural edition of Europe's 50 Best Bars. On January 14, 2026, they released compelling details about the award categories and the selected Academy Chairs, paving the way for what promises to be an exhilarating ceremony.

Overview of Awards and Academy Chairs

The official list of Europe's Best Bars 2026 and its special award winners will be unveiled during a live event, with specifics regarding the date and venue to be shared in the near future. The rankings will be determined through the votes of the Europe's 50 Best Bars Academy, which consists of a panel of 300 anonymous experts across the continent. This diverse group includes bartenders, bar owners, and well-traveled cocktail enthusiasts, all chosen under the oversight of the 11 Academy Chairs, each representing distinct sub-regions of Europe.

Special Award Categories

Among the exciting features of this launch edition are ten prestigious award categories, each designed to showcase the unique elements of the bar industry across Europe. Here’s a sneak peek into some of these special awards:

• - Michter's Art of Hospitality Award: Celebrating bars that go above and beyond in providing warmth and engagement to their guests.
• - Altos Bartenders' Bartender Award: An award decided by peers that recognizes innovation and significant contributions to the industry.
• - One To Watch Award: This award shines a light on emerging bars poised to make a mark in future editions.
• - Best New Opening Award: Acknowledges the most impressive newcomers in the bar scene of Europe.
• - Sustainable Bar Award: This award recognizes establishments making notable strides towards sustainable practices.

The complete list also includes the Best Cocktail Menu Award, Best Bar Design Award, and Best in Destination Award, culminating in the announcement of the Best Bar in Europe 2026, the top-ranking venue of the year.

Introducing the Academy Chairs

To bring integrity and balance to the voting process, the Academy Chairs have been selected for their expertise and connections within the bar community. The chairs represent various regions:

• - Bára Urbanová: Covering the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland
• - Eleni Nikoloulia: Representing Greece, Turkey, and the Southern Balkans
• - Alia Akkam: Covering Hungary, Southern Europe, and Northern Balkans
• - Juliane Reichert: Representing Germany, Austria, and Switzerland
• - Arina Nikolskaya: Overseeing Eastern Europe and the Baltics
• - François Monti: Focused on Spain and Portugal
• - Hamish Smith: Covering the UK and Ireland
• - Laurence Marot: Representing France
• - Jakob Sundin: Focused on the Nordics
• - Ara Carvallo: Representing Benelux
• - Penelope Vaglini: Covering Italy

These distinguished individuals have been entrusted with the vital task of ensuring a balanced and comprehensive evaluation of the bar landscape across Europe, promoting a diverse representation that reflects the region’s rich cocktail culture.

Conclusion

The launch of Europe's 50 Best Bars is an exhilarating event for both industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. As we await the grand reveal of the prestigious rankings and award winners, excitement continues to build around how these accolades and recognitions will shape the future of the bar and hospitality landscape across the continent. Stay tuned for the updates on this monumental occasion that celebrates the vibrancy and creativity within Europe’s thriving bar scene.