#China #Guangzhou #Hope & Sesame #Asia's Best Bar

Hope & Sesame Takes the Top Spot

In an exciting announcement from Macau, Hope & Sesame has been named The Best Bar in Asia for 2026, backed by Perrier. This esteemed recognition highlights the bar's unique blend of contemporary cocktail techniques with Cantonese cultural influences, setting the standard for innovation in mixology.

A Stellar Achievement

The Asia's 50 Best Bars 2026 ceremony celebrated bars across the region, with Hope & Sesame not only clinching the title for Asia but also being recognized as the Best Bar in Mainland China. This marks a remarkable seven-year continuous presence on the prestigious list, demonstrating the establishment's resilience and adaptation in the ever-evolving cocktail landscape.

Among 22 cities represented, the awards also highlighted other prominent bars. Notably, Lennon's in Bangkok debuted at No.7 and secured the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award, while Bar Sathorn, also in Bangkok, was honored with the Nikka Highest Climber Award, moving up 31 ranks to No.17.

Celebrating Diversity in Mixology

The results from this year's awards show a vibrant cocktail culture across Asia. Bangkok led the pack with eight bars in the rankings, followed by Hong Kong with seven, showcasing the region's commitment to quality and creativity in the hospitality industry. Jigger & Pony in Singapore, ranked No.9, was awarded the title of The Best Bar in Singapore, confirming the city-state's strong mixology scene.

Seoul's Zest claimed the No.2 position, achieving the title of The Best Bar in Korea for three consecutive years. This highlights the ongoing excellence and innovation that defines the cocktail culture in South Korea.

Highlighting Key Awards and Recognitions

The ceremony also honored several noteworthy establishments and personalities. Smoke Bitters from Hiriketiya was recognized with the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award, while Mius’ Shelley Tai received the Altos Bartenders' Bartender Award, underscoring the talent within the industry.

Not to be overlooked, Bar Us from Bangkok won the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award, emphasizing a growing trend toward sustainability in hospitality. Each of these accolades not only celebrates individual establishments but reflects a larger trend of excellence and diversity across the bar scene in Asia.

Faye Huggett, Director of the Community for Asia's 50 Best Bars, expressed that the 2026 list is a testament to the creativity and resilience characterizing today's cocktail culture across Asia. She remarked, “From revered establishments to ambitious newcomers, the bars in this lineup continually elevate the hospitality standard throughout the region.”

Conclusion

As Hope & Sesame continues to shine as a beacon of innovation in Guangzhou, the future looks promising for the Asian cocktail landscape. With a blend of tradition and contemporary techniques, bars across the continent are setting new standards and redefining the art of mixology. For a complete list of all bars ranked from 1-50, visit the Asia's 50 Best Bars website.