Bar Leone Retains Top Spot in World's 50 Best Bars 2026

The venue, co-founded by Italian bartender Lorenzo Antinori, continues to find success through its philosophy of Cocktail Popolari. By prioritizing straightforward hospitality and classic techniques inspired by Rome’s Trastevere district, the bar has cemented its reputation as a defining destination in Hong Kong’s Central neighbourhood. Its ability to retain the top position marks a rare achievement in an industry frequently defined by the pursuit of novelty.

While Hong Kong remains a dominant force, the 2026 rankings reveal significant geographic shifts. Paris has overtaken London as Europe’s most represented city, now tied globally with New York and Hong Kong at four entries each. Meanwhile, Athens continues to command attention, with Line securing the sustainability award and The Bar in Front of the Bar recording the most significant climb in the list. Across the Atlantic, Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy maintains its status as the leader in North America, further diversifying the concentration of high-end cocktail culture.