Hong Kong’s Bar Leone named World’s Best Bar
Hong Kong’s Bar Leone, helmed by Lorenzo Antinori, has been crowned the World’s Best Bar 2025, taking the top spot at The World’s 50 Best Bars ceremony, sponsored by Perrier.
Bar Leone’s win underscores a growing global appreciation for hospitality-driven, locally rooted cocktail culture — and a milestone for Asia’s vibrant bar scene (Pic: Pexels)
Now in its 17th year, the list is compiled from votes by 800 bar professionals, drinks writers and cocktail experts worldwide.
Bar Leone, which debuted in 2023 and placed second in 2024, is a neighbourhood-style venue celebrating cocktail popolari – simple, Italian-inspired classics and refined bar food such as its famed mortadella sandwich – all served with a dose of Roman hospitality.
It marks the first time an Asian bar has topped the global list, joining the ranks of past winners from London, New York, Barcelona and Mexico City.
Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy took second place and the title of Best Bar in North America, while Barcelona’s Sips claimed third and Best Bar in Europe.
Other top contenders included Paradiso (Barcelona), Tayer + Elementary (London), and The Connaught Bar (London).
The 2025 list also highlighted excellence across regions, naming Tres Monos in Buenos Aires as Best Bar in South America, Mimi Kakushi in Dubai as Best Bar in the Middle East, and Hero in Nairobi as Best Bar in Africa.
Special awards included the Campari One To Watch for Bar Mauro (Mexico City), Best New Opening for Sip & Guzzle (New York), and the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award for Uno Jang of Jigger & Pony (Singapore).
Bar Leone’s win underscores a growing global appreciation for hospitality-driven, locally rooted cocktail culture — and a milestone for Asia’s vibrant bar scene.
