#Greece #Athens #Cocktail Culture #Europe's 50 Best Bars #Line in Athens

Line in Athens Triumphs as the No.1 Bar in Europe

On June 30, 2026, the highly anticipated list of Europe's 50 Best Bars was unveiled during a glamorous awards ceremony in Amsterdam. Dominating this first edition is Line, located in Athens, which has successfully claimed the title of the Best Bar in Europe and also the Best Bar in Greece. The ceremony honored bars from 22 cities across the continent, emphasizing the diversity and vibrancy of European drinking establishments.

About Line

Nestled in a former art gallery in the Kato Petralona neighborhood of Athens, Line has captured the imagination of cocktail enthusiasts with its innovative approach to mixology. The venue stands out not just for its cocktails but also for its commitment to sustainability, creativity, and thoughtfulness in hospitality. Spearheaded by acclaimed bartenders Vasilis Kyritsis and Nikos Bakoulis, Line combines a fermentation lab and a culinary on-site production facility, creating fruit wines and beers while ensuring that every byproduct is reused in cocktails and food.

The beverage menu features house-made fruit wines termed Why-ins, developed alongside winemaker Thanos Georgilas. These wines range from traditional styles to experimental offerings infused with aromatic distillates. The cocktails harmoniously blend innovative and familiar tastes, elevating classic favorites into unique concoctions.

To complement the drinks, the small plates curated by chef Pavlos Kyriaki incorporate ingredients from the fermentation process, ensuring a cohesive dining experience. The environment transforms seamlessly from a laid-back coffee spot during the day to a vibrant cocktail destination in the evening, mirroring the dynamic evolution of Athens' cocktail culture.

Significance of the Award

Faye Huggett, Director of Community for Europe’s 50 Best Bars, emphasized the achievement, stating, “We are immensely proud to name Line as the first-ever winner of The Best Bar in Europe. Their remarkable hospitality and stunning creativity have not only earned them this accolade but have truly cemented Athens' position on the global map.” This recognition serves to illuminate the expanse of exceptional bars across the continent, encouraging new patrons to explore the rich tapestry of European cocktail culture, from established hubs to emerging scenes.

Notable Winners and Awards

Alongside Line's triumph, several other bars received accolades during the event. Noteworthy winners included:

• - The Bar in Front of the Bar, also in Athens, which secured the No.2 spot.
• - Sips in Barcelona, celebrated as The Best Bar in Spain at No.3.
• - Himkok in Oslo, recognized as The Best Bar in Norway at No.4.
• - Bar Nouveau in Paris, which claimed the title of The Best Bar in France at No.5.

Additionally, various special awards highlighted bars excelling in different aspects:

• - Waltz in London was honored with the Three Cents Best New Opening award.
• - Panda Sons from Edinburgh snagged the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu award.
• - De Vie in Paris received the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award for its commitment to environmental consciousness.

Conclusion

The release of Europe’s 50 Best Bars provides an exciting glimpse into the continent’s bar landscape, spotlighting venues that excel in hospitality, creativity, and sustainable practices. As cocktail culture continues to evolve, the first edition heralds a future of innovation and excellence in European bartending. It celebrates not only established institutions like Line but also those emerging passionate scenes that are reshaping the way we experience drinking establishments across the continent.