Bar Leone Crowned The World's Best Bar at The 50 Best Bars 2026 Ceremony
Bar Leone Crowned The World's Best Bar
In a dazzling ceremony held in Milan on October 7, 2026, Bar Leone, nestled in the vibrant heart of Hong Kong, proudly reclaimed its title as The World’s Best Bar, a recognition sponsored by Perrier. This achievement marks the second consecutive year that Bar Leone has held this esteemed position, further solidifying its reputation as a beacon of cocktail excellence on the international stage.
Founded by Lorenzo Antinori, Bar Leone draws inspiration from the traditional bars of the Trastevere district in Rome. The bar's unique philosophy, dubbed Cocktail Popolari (which translates to “Cocktails for All”), insists on authentic hospitality paired with extraordinary drinks. Unlike many modern establishments that chase fleeting trends or employ flashy techniques, Bar Leone focuses on creating a warm, inviting atmosphere complemented by vintage Italian decor.
The 2026 list of The 50 Best Bars featured 26 cities with 14 new entrants, showcasing a rich diversity in cocktail culture globally. Following Bar Leone, the list's top five included Moebius Milano at No. 2, Alquímico from Cartagena at No. 3, Bar Us in Bangkok at No. 4, and Line located in Athens at No. 5. This ranking not only highlights the bar’s sustained excellence but also serves as a testament to its innovative approach to mixology.
Faye Huggett, the director of the community for The 50 Best Bars, expressed immense pride in the announcement, stating, “It is with great honor that we once again declare Bar Leone as The World's Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier. Achieving the title of the first No. 1 in Asia was already a remarkable feat, but retaining this title for another year showcases the tangible impact of the Cocktail Popolari philosophy. Beyond the No. 1 spot, this year's rankings powerfully reflect the extraordinary talent, dedication, and hospitality that continue to elevate cocktail culture worldwide.”
In addition to Bar Leone’s significant recognition, several other awards were presented during the ceremony. Shingo Gokan, iconic for his contributions to the bar scene, was bestowed with the Roku Industry Icon Award. Three Horses in Melbourne was honored with the Campari One to Watch Award, while Line in Athens received the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award. Bar Mauro in Mexico made headlines by securing the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award, debuting in the rankings at No. 10.
The 50 Best Bars ceremony continues to be a pivotal moment in the global bar industry, fostering a sense of community among bartenders while celebrating innovation in drinks and hospitality. The full 1-50 list is available on their website, highlighting the vibrant and ever-evolving landscape of bars worldwide.
This recognition comes as Bar Leone continues to push the envelope in mixology, consistently elevating the standards of what it means to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail in a welcoming environment. As patrons from around the world flock to experience the magic of Bar Leone, the excitement surrounding this establishment is set to inspire even greater creativity in the cocktail sphere for years to come.