Line in Athens Crowned as No.1 in Europe's 50 Best Bars 2026 List
Line in Athens: The Best Bar in Europe
In an exciting twist for the bar culture, Line in Athens has been recognized as the premier establishment in Europe's 50 Best Bars 2026 ranking, an inaugural event sponsored by Perrier. This prestigious accolade was revealed during a grand ceremony held in Amsterdam on June 30, 2026, which marked the first annual celebration of this new listing curated by 50 Best, the organization that is known for ranking the world's elite bars.
Line's approach to mixology stands out significantly, focusing on a unique fermentation practice that allows them to create homemade wines, beers, and various other ingredients. This innovative method leaps beyond traditional bar offerings, merging experimental techniques with accessible flavors that resonate with a wide audience. This combination of creativity and approachability is what has clinched them the title of The Best Bar in Europe and Greece.
The comprehensive ranking showcases bars from an impressive 22 cities, demonstrating the evolving landscape of cocktail culture across the continent. Following Line in Athens, the list features several remarkable establishments: The Bar in Front of the Bar comes in second, while Sips ranks third as the best bar in Spain, sponsored by Torres Brandy. Himkok, representing Norway, takes fourth place, and Bar Nouveau from France rounds out the top five.
Among other notable mentions, Moebius Milano of Italy comes in at sixth place, winning as The Best Bar in Italy. Further acclaim is bestowed upon Nouvelle Vague at sixteenth position, recognized as The Best Bar in Albania, and Wax On in seventeenth place, taking the title of The Best Bar in Germany. The competition is fierce, and accolades such as The Best Bar in Denmark go to Bird at twenty-four, while Alma Prague is singled out as the Best Bar in Czechia at twenty-five.
The awards ceremony included recognition of excellence across various categories. Salvatore Calabrese was honored with the Industry Icon Award, reflecting his significant contributions to the cocktail scene. Waltz from London secured the Three Cents Best New Opening Award, highlighting fresh talent entering the industry. Immensely creative menus were acknowledged as well, with Panda & Sons in Edinburgh earning the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award.
For sustainability, De Vie in Paris received the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award, underscoring an essential shift towards environmental responsibility within the sector. Hide in Budapest won the SevenRooms Best Bar Design Award, showcasing the importance of aesthetic ambiance in the hospitality industry. Additionally, Mirror Bar, located at eighth and hailing from Slovakia, was celebrated by winning the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award.
More than a list, the recognition of these establishments highlights the ever-evolving nature of bars in Europe, with establishments embracing innovation, sustainability, and creativity to craft memorable experiences for their patrons. Connaught Bar, placed at tenth in the rankings, was celebrated as the Best Bar in the UK, showcasing the diversity and excellence that the European bar scene has to offer.
As we toast to this fantastic achievement by Line in Athens, it serves as a reminder of the vibrant culture surrounding bars across the continent. The fusion of craft, ambition, and tradition truly shapes the art of mixology, setting the stage for new drinks, experiences, and the continued rise of the cocktail culture in Europe.