HONG KONG'S BAR LEONE NAMED WORLD'S BEST BAR FOR SECOND YEAR

Bar Leone in Hong Kong has been named the world's best bar for the second consecutive year in The 50 Best Bars 2026 list. More than 800 industry experts voted to compile the ranking, sponsored by Perrier and published by its owner, William Reed. Bar Leone, which opened in 2023 in the city's Central district, was recognised for bringing what organisers described as Roman drinking culture to Hong Kong. The results were announced at a live ceremony in Milan on 7 October. The list covers 50 venues across 26 cities, with Paris, Hong Kong and New York each placing four bars in the top 50.

London's Connaught Bar also featured on the list, alongside two Mexico City venues, Handshake Speakeasy and Bar Mauro, which ranked in the top 10. Satan's Whiskers in Bethnal Green and Waltz in Shoreditch also scored well for London. Separately, Edinburgh's Panda & Sons received the "Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award" for its Transcend menu at the same ceremony. The 2026 edition includes 14 new entries from cities including Athens, Bangkok and Buenos Aires. The 50 Best Bars list has been published annually since 2009.

Faye Huggett, director of community for The 50 Best Bars, said the rankings reflect what she called the extraordinary talent, dedication and hospitality elevating bar culture worldwide. She said organisers were delighted to celebrate teams whose passion and innovation earned them a place on the list, while also recognising the diversity of the global drinks industry. Huggett added that the list represents the best the industry has to offer, from established destinations to newer venues. No further awards ceremonies or list updates were announced beyond the Milan event.