Bar Leone Crowned The World's Best Bar of 2025
On October 8, 2025, the prestigious title of The World's Best Bar of 2025 was awarded to Bar Leone, located in the vibrant heart of Hong Kong. This monumental recognition marks a significant milestone as it is the first time a bar in Asia has achieved this esteemed ranking, an event that has been celebrated globally among cocktail enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
A Tribute to Rome's Bar Culture
Bar Leone embodies the spirit of "cocktails popolari" or popular cocktails, a homage to the neighborhood bars of Rome where patrons gather to enjoy a casual drink and engage in lively conversations. Co-founder Lorenzo Antinori aimed to strip away the complexities of modern mixology, focusing instead on delivering high-quality, straightforward drinks served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The reception has been overwhelmingly positive, attracting a diverse clientele eager to savor its unique offerings.
The Top Five Bars of 2025
Following Bar Leone in the rankings were several noteworthy establishments:
- - #2 Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City, known for its hidden ambiance and inventive drinks.
- - #3 Sips in Barcelona, celebrated for its artistic cocktail presentations.
- - #4 Paradiso, also in Barcelona, recognized for its commitment to sustainability.
- - #5 Tayēr + Elementary in London, praised for its innovative cocktail menu.
Emma Sleight, the content head for The World's 50 Best Bars, expressed her excitement stating, "We are thrilled to announce that Bar Leone has been named The World's Best Bar of 2025, sponsored by Perrier. This marks a historic moment for Asia's cocktail scene, demonstrating Bar Leone's commitment to redefining excellence in the industry. We raise our glasses to all the bars that have earned their place in this prestigious list."
Awards and Recognitions
In addition to the exceptional recognition for Bar Leone, the awards ceremony also highlighted multiple bars from around the globe:
- - The Best New Opening award went to the New York establishment Sip Guzzle.
- - The Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award was awarded to Penang's Backdoor Bodega.
- - In Paris, The Cambridge Public House was honored with the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award, reflecting the growing importance of sustainability in the bar industry.
- - The accolade for Disaronno Highest New Entry went to Mirror Bar in Bratislava, showcasing its upward trajectory in the rankings.
A Bright Future for Asian Bars
Bar Leone's achievement not only celebrates its individual excellence but also highlights the burgeoning cocktail culture across Asia. With increasing global attention on bars from this region, future editions of The World's 50 Best Bars are likely to see even more Asian contenders breaking into the upper echelons of the rankings.
As the bar industry continues to evolve, Bar Leone stands as a beacon of innovation and quality, paving the way for future generations of bartenders and cocktail aficionados alike. This recognition is not just for the present moment; it signifies an ongoing commitment to craft, community, and the celebration of the joy that comes with sharing a drink.
In conclusion, Bar Leone's crowning as The World's Best Bar of 2025 serves as an inspiration and a testament to what is possible when passion and quality come together in the art of cocktail making. Cheers to the team at Bar Leone, and to all the bars that continue to shape the global drinking experience!