Hong Kong’s Bar Leone tops the 2025 World’s 50 Best Bars, with UK bars in London and Edinburgh also making the list.
Hong Kong Makes History
The 2025 World’s 50 Best Bars list has crowned Hong Kong’s Bar Leone as the world’s best bar. This is the first time an Asian bar has taken the top spot in the history of the awards.
Another Hong Kong bar, COA, also made the list, ranking 38th. Bar Leone co-founder Lorenzo Antinori told the media that Hong Kong’s bar scene is diverse. His bar combines Italian inspiration with local ingredients, focusing on quality and continuous improvement. He added that Bar Leone plans to open a new bar in Shanghai this November.
COA founder Jay Khan said the recognition means a lot to his team. He is satisfied with their 38th place and looks forward to improving further. COA has been operating for nearly nine years and may undergo a small renovation soon.
While Hong Kong leads the way in Asia, mainland cities like Shenzhen are developing vibrant bar scenes. The region’s bar culture is evolving rapidly, offering exciting experiences for locals and international visitors alike.
UK’s Best Bars: London and Edinburgh
The UK remains strong in the rankings. Four bars from London and one from Edinburgh made the top 50:
- Tayēr + Elementary (London) – 5th
- Connaught Bar (London) – 6th
- Satan’s Whiskers (London) – 21st
- Scarfes Bar (London) – 31st
- Panda & Sons (Edinburgh) – 34th
These bars are known for their creative cocktails, unique atmospheres, and consistent quality. Panda & Sons in Edinburgh, for example, uses a speakeasy theme with imaginative drinks and a cosy environment.
A Taste of Innovation
Bar Leone and COA showcase Asia’s rising bar culture. Bar Leone blends Italian techniques with Hong Kong flavours, while COA focuses on craftsmanship and innovation. In the UK, London and Edinburgh bars continue to highlight classic mixology and historic charm.
Additional reporting by KHCNA.
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