World's 50 Best Bars 2026 announced at Milan event

Bar Leone in Hong Kong takes No.1 rank for second year in succession

October 9th, 2026

The annual list of The 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, was unveiled this week as part of a live awards ceremony in Milan, Italy. Now in its 18th edition, the awards unites the global bar community in recognition of the bartenders, bar owners and brands at the forefront of the international cocktail scene.

The list of The 50 Best Bars 2026 features venues from an impressive 26 cities, with Hong Kong’s Bar Leone crowned The Best Bar in Asia and The World’s Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier. This is the second time the bar, which was the first ever No.1 from Asia in 2025, has taken the top spot.

Bar Leone has quickly established itself as one of Hong Kong’s defining cocktail destinations, bringing a slice of Roman drinking culture to the city’s Central neighbourhood. Co-founded by Italian bartender Lorenzo Antinori, the venue draws inspiration from the traditional bars found in Rome’s Trastevere district.

The bar’s philosophy of Cocktail Popolari – translating from the Italian as “cocktails for the people” – focuses on straightforward hospitality and impeccably made drinks while the design reflects Antinori’s roots, combining vintage Italian references with a welcoming neighbourhood atmosphere. Wood finishes, football memorabilia and nostalgic décor create an informal setting that feels authentic and lived-in, encouraging repeat visits as much as special occasions.

Together with his team, Antinori has built a drinks programme centred on expertly executed classics, many featuring Italian influences and premium ingredients. Signature serves sit alongside popular snacks such as smoked olives and a mortadella sandwich. Since opening in 2023, Bar Leone’s rise has been remarkable. The bar made history by debuting at No.1 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2024, retained the regional crown in 2025, and went on to be named The World’s Best Bar in 2025 after placing No.2 globally the previous year.

Hong Kong dominates in Asia – Bangkok closes gap

Hong Kong has reclaimed its status as Asia’s leading cocktail city, placing four bars in the ranking. Leading the charge is Bar Leone, ranked No.1 and retaining the titles of The World’s Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier and The Best Bar in Asia. The city also welcomes back Argo at No.25 and celebrates two new entries: Montana at No.36 and Gokan at No.41. The latter’s founder, Shingo Gokan, was also honoured with the Roku Industry Icon Award. Hope & Sesame in Guangzhou ranks No.12.

With three bars in the top 50, Bangkok remains close behind Hong Kong. Bar Us secures No.4, while new entry Dry Wave Cocktail Studio debuts at No.27 alongside BKK Social Club at No.30. Seoul’s Zest is at No.7.

Both Singapore and Tokyo place two bars in the ranking, represented by: Jigger & Pony (No.18), Nutmeg & Clove(No.38), Bar Benfiddich (No.44) and Virtù (No.48).

Special awards included The Best Bar in Europe 2026 awarded to Milan’s Moebius Milano, which ranked at No.2. While Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy claimed the title of The Best Bar in North America. Retaining their titles for 2026 are Dubai’s Mimi Kakushi, The Best Bar in the Middle East, and ranked at No.42 and Melbourne’s Caretaker’s Cottage, The Best Bar in Australasia.

Other special award winners announced in the run up to the awards include Alquímico, winner of the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award, and Takuma Watanabe, named this year’s Altos Bartenders’ Bartender.