Hong Kong's Bar Leone named world's best bar for second year as Moebius Milano takes second

Top honours in Milan

The 18th edition of The 50 Best Bars took place on the evening of 7 October 2026 at the Palazzo del Ghiaccio in Milan, marking the first time Italy hosted the ceremony. Bar Leone in Hong Kong secured first place globally for the second consecutive year, retaining the title it first won in 2025. Co-founded in 2023 by Roman bartender Lorenzo Antinori, the Central district establishment operates around the concept of "Cocktail Popolari", combining neighbourhood hospitality, classic drinks, smoked olives, and mortadella sandwiches. Milan venue Moebius took second place and earned the distinction of Best Bar in Europe, rising from seventh position in 2025. Alquímico in Cartagena placed third, receiving the title of Best Bar in South America along with the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award.

Antinori addressed the result following the presentation in Milan.

I did not expect it, I was not among the favourites. It is a great pride, especially considering all the new bars that have entered the global scene.

The rise of Bar Leone

Bar Leone expanded its footprint rapidly following its 2023 debut, entering the rankings with regional honours before reaching the global summit. In 2024, the bar placed first on the Asia's 50 Best Bars list and second on the global list. By 2025, it claimed first place worldwide as the first Asian establishment to top the global ranking, and opened a second location in Shanghai later that year. The venue draws aesthetic inspiration from Rome's Trastevere neighbourhood during the 1980s and 1990s, using wood panelling, football memorabilia, and straightforward serves rather than theatrical techniques.

Faye Huggett, community director for The 50 Best Bars, commended the venue's consistency during the ceremony.

It is with immense pride that we once again announce Bar Leone as The World's Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier. To be the first No.1 from Asia was already an outstanding achievement but to retain the title for a second year shows the true impact of Cocktail Popolari. Beyond the No.1, this year's rankings are a powerful reflection of the extraordinary talent, dedication and hospitality that continue to elevate bar culture around the world.

European and Mediterranean presence

Europe accounted for 18 venues across the top 50, though representation across cocktail capitals changed during this edition. Paris placed four venues on the list, matching New York and Hong Kong for the highest city representation and surpassing London for the first time. The French entries included The Cambridge Public House at 13th, Bar Nouveau at 15th, newcomer De Vie at 23rd, and Danico at 26th. London registered three establishments, led by Connaught Bar in eighth place alongside Satan's Whiskers and newcomer Waltz. Athens also placed three bars in the ranking: Line finished fifth, The Bar in Front of the Bar climbed 28 places to 19th, and Barro Negro entered at 40th.

Global spread and individual awards

The 2026 ranking featured bars from 26 cities, including 14 new entries within the top 50. Asia placed 13 establishments in the top 50 and 28 across the broader top 100 list, led by Bar Leone and Bangkok venue Bar Us in fourth place. Spain secured three spots in the top 50, with Barcelona establishments Sips and Paradiso taking 16th and 17th respectively, and Madrid bar Angelita entering at 50th after placing 51st the prior year. Special category awards included the Highest New Entry Award for Mexico City bar Bar Mauro at tenth, the Industry Icon Award for Shingo Gokan, and the Legend of the List award for Paradiso. Edinburgh venue Panda & Sons won the Best Cocktail Menu award, while Abu Dhabi venue Saikindō received the Best Bar Design Award.