#United States #New York #SG Group #The SG Club #Sip & Guzzle

Sip & Guzzle: A New York Bar with Japanese Roots

In an exciting turn of events for the bar scene, Sip & Guzzle, a sister establishment to The SG Club in Tokyo, has been awarded the top spot in North America’s 50 Best Bars for 2026. Owned by the SG Group, led by renowned bartender Shingo Gokan, this accolade not only reflects the excellence of the bar but also underscores the growing stature of Japanese bar culture on an international level. Opening its doors in January 2024, Sip & Guzzle has quickly risen to fame, illustrating the vibrant hospitality landscape of North America, especially in a competitive metropolis like New York City.

The journey of Sip & Guzzle began with inspiration from the historical visit of Japanese samurai to America in the 1860s. Envisioned by Shingo Gokan, it propels the ethos of The SG Club into a contemporary New York setting. This fascinating narrative echoes the cultural exchange and heritage that bars represent. It imagines what would happen if the samurai returned to New York with expertise and knowledge acquired abroad, and Sip & Guzzle is the embodiment of that vision.

As a collaboration between Gokan and acclaimed mixologist Steve Schneider, the bar integrates the philosophy of The SG Club across various dimensions—brand ideology, interior design, menu innovation, and guest experience—all infused with a distinct flavor that resonates with both local residents and international visitors. This project is a testament to SG Group's commitment to extending the boundaries of bar culture and hospitality, influencing not just local norms but also setting new standards in the industry.

Shingo Gokan, who launched his career as a bartender in New York in 2001, cites the city as his professional foundation, having undergone rigorous training at prestigious bars. His notable achievements include winning the Bacardi Legacy competition in 2012, where he represented the U.S. and emerged as the global champion. With an impressive track record of successful ventures in Shanghai, Tokyo, and Okinawa, Gokan returned to New York to lead Sip & Guzzle toward its spectacular achievement of being crowned North America's number one bar.

At the awards ceremony held on April 22, 2026, at the Vancouver Convention Centre, industry leaders from across North America gathered to celebrate excellence in bar culture. The dramatic live reveal of rankings began from the 50th position, culminating in a jubilant uproar as Sip & Guzzle was heralded as the best bar. The event was a melting pot of camaraderie and commendation, reflecting the dedication and hard work of the participants in this vibrant sector.

The award from North America’s 50 Best Bars is highly coveted—it serves as a global benchmark for bar excellence based on a comprehensive evaluation that includes drink quality, hospitality, ambiance, creativity, and industry impact. It emphasizes the significant contributions bars make to their local cultures and inspires the global bar community.

Looking forward, the SG Group and Shingo Gokan are determined to continue their mission of promoting Japanese hospitality across the globe, showcasing their unique blends of culture and innovation. By elevating the bar experience on an international scale, they embody a narrative that bridges history and contemporary artistry, ultimately redefining how bars are perceived.

As Sip & Guzzle takes its place among the elite in the bar industry, it symbolizes the remarkable evolution of Japanese bar culture—a legacy that is being celebrated and recognized far beyond its origins. This achievement marks not only a personal triumph for Gokan but also a significant milestone for the global hospitality landscape. The journey has just begun, and the world eagerly anticipates what this dynamic team will craft next.