Hong Kong’s Bar Leone has retained its position as The World’s Best Bar 2026, sponsored by Perrier, marking the second consecutive year the venue has claimed the top spot in the annual ranking. The results were announced at a live awards ceremony in Milan, Italy, with this year’s list featuring bars from 26 cities worldwide.
Co-founded by Italian bartender Lorenzo Antinori, Bar Leone first made history in 2025 as the first Asian bar to take the global No.1 position. Its latest win further establishes Hong Kong as a major destination for contemporary cocktail culture.
Located in the city’s Central neighbourhood, Bar Leone takes its cues from the traditional bars of Rome’s Trastevere district. Its philosophy, Cocktail Popolari, or “cocktails for the people”, centres on approachable hospitality and well-executed classics rather than elaborate presentation. Italian-inspired drinks are served alongside casual bites, including smoked olives and mortadella sandwiches.
Since opening in 2023, the bar has risen rapidly through the rankings, debuting at No.1 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2024 before securing the global title the following year.
Asia’s cocktail capitals strengthen their presence
Hong Kong leads Asia’s representation with four bars in the 2026 ranking. Alongside Bar Leone at No.1, Argo returns at No.25, while newcomers Montana and Gokan enter at No.36 and No.41 respectively. Gokan’s founder, Shingo Gokan, also received the Roku Industry Icon Award for his contributions to the international bar industry.
Bangkok follows with three entries, led by Bar Us at No.4. Dry Wave Cocktail Studio makes its debut at No.27, while BKK Social Club ranks No.30. The Thai capital’s strong showing places it among the region’s leading cocktail destinations.
In Seoul, Zest takes No.7, securing a position among the world’s top 10 bars. Guangzhou’s Hope & Sesame ranks No.12, extending mainland China’s presence on the list.
Singapore and Tokyo each have two bars in the top 50. Singapore’s Jigger & Pony ranks No.18, followed by Nutmeg & Clove at No.38. Tokyo’s Bar Benfiddich comes in at No.44, while Virtù ranks No.48.
The results reflect the breadth of Asia’s bar scene, spanning established destinations and newer venues that draw on local ingredients, regional influences and international techniques.
Global honours extend beyond the top spot
Elsewhere, Milan’s Moebius Milano ranks No.2 and is named The Best Bar in Europe, while Colombia’s Alquímico takes No.3 and The Best Bar in South America. Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy ranks No.6 and receives The Best Bar in North America title.
Other notable winners include Athens’ Line at No.5, which receives the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award, and New York’s Schmuck, which debuts at No.11 and wins the Three Cents Best New Opening Award.
The 2026 ranking underscores the increasingly international character of cocktail culture, with Asian venues continuing to command attention alongside established bars across Europe and the Americas.
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