#China #Hong Kong #Bars #Bar Leone

Bar Leone Claims Top Honours at The 50 Best Bars 2026

On October 7, 2026, the prestigious annual list of The 50 Best Bars was unveiled in Milan, Italy, revealing Bar Leone in Hong Kong as not only The World's Best Bar but also the best in Asia for the second consecutive year. This event, sponsored by Perrier, unites the global community in celebrating excellence in the cocktail scene.

Bar Leone, co-founded by Lorenzo Antinori, is renowned for its philosophy of 'Cocktail Popolari', which translates to 'cocktails for the people'. This approach emphasizes genuine hospitality and expertly crafted drinks, eschewing ephemeral trends and theatrical mixology. The bar's design draws on vintage Italian influences, creating a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of the traditional bars found in Rome's Trastevere district.

Faye Huggett, Director of Community for The 50 Best Bars, expressed her pride in Bar Leone’s achievement, highlighting its significant impact on the bar culture both regionally and globally. “Being the first bar from Asia to claim the top spot was remarkable, and to retain that honor underscores the lasting effect of their commitment to quality and service,” she stated.

In the 2026 ranking, Bar Leone was joined in the top five by other distinguished establishments: Milan's Moebius Milano secured the second position, while Cartagena's Alquimíco and Bangkok's Bar Us came in third and fourth, respectively. Athens' Line rounded out the top five.

The awards night also recognized various other bars and individuals for their contributions to the cocktail industry. Among the highlights:

• - Shingo Gokan was awarded the Roku Industry Icon Award, acknowledging his outstanding influence on bartending.
• - Three Horses in Melbourne was celebrated with the Campari One to Watch Award.
• - The Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award was presented to Line in Athens, emphasizing a commitment to sustainability in bar practices.
• - Bar Mauro in Mexico City earned the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award, breaking into the top ten at position ten.
• - The Bar in Front of the Bar in Athens achieved the Nikka Highest Climber Award, moving up 28 ranks to secure the 19th spot.
• - In a further nod to creativity, Panda Sons in Edinburgh received the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award.
• - The SevenRooms Best Bar Design Award was awarded to Saikindō in Abu Dhabi, showcasing innovation in bar aesthetics.
• - Takuma Watanabe was recognized as Altos Bartenders' Bartender, while Alquímico in Cartagena took home the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award.

In total, the 2026 list features a remarkable variety of bars from 26 cities around the world, including 14 new entries, reflecting the dynamic nature of the global cocktail scene. As Faye Huggett articulated, this year's rankings serve as a testament to the extraordinary talent and hospitality that define the modern bar experience.

With its continued recognition, Bar Leone remains a bastion of quality in Hong Kong's vibrant nightlife, blending traditional cocktail-making with modern sensibilities to create a unique offering for patrons. As the bar community looks ahead, the influence of such standout establishments only promises to grow, with Bar Leone leading the charge into the next era of cocktail culture.

For those interested in exploring the full list of The 50 Best Bars, a comprehensive overview is available, showcasing the diverse talents and innovative bars that shape the industry today.