The list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024 was announced at a live awards ceremony in Hong Kong, with Bar Leone taking out the number one spot.
The awards featured bars from 18 cities across Asia, including 15 new entries.
Bar Leone clinched The Best Bar in Hong Kong title, as well as the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award and it is the first time in 50 Best Bars history that The Best Bar in Asia has been a new entry on the list.
The one-year-old neighbourhood bar in Central, Hong Kong, founded by bartender Lorenzo Antinori, embodies the Italian ethos of ‘cocktail popolari’ or ‘cocktails for the people’.
With behind-the-bar experience at Argo in Hong Kong and top bars in Seoul and London, Antinori brings expertise to a beverage programme focused on classic, approachable cocktails that are inspired by the traditional Roman bars of his home country.
The bar programme focuses on revived classics made with a low-intervention, seasonal approach, and is complemented by minimalist garnishes, like manicured citrus peels and quality olives.
The relaxed and fun vibe mirrors Lorenzo’s playful personality, with decor featuring burnt orange banquettes, a mahogany bar, church candles, Italy-themed posters, a 70s-80s Italian pop soundtrack and personal knick-knacks – all of which combine to create a space that feels both homely and high end.
“The region’s bars continuously redefine exceptional drinking experiences, showcased by the talent and creativity at this year’s winning establishments,” says Emma Sleight, Head of Content for Asia’s 50 Best Bars.
“With 15 new entries, the list is bound to entice and excite even seasoned cocktail enthusiasts.
“Huge congratulations to the tour de force that is Lorenzo Antinori and the whole team at Bar Leone for the impressive – and previously unheard of – feat of entering the ranking at No.1.
“This is undoubtedly a strong testament to the bar’s irreverent and casual approach to cocktails, design, service and hospitality.”
At No.2 is the intimate low-waste bar, Zest in Seoul, which has ascended three spots, making it The Best Bar in Korea.
A consistent presence in the top five is Jigger & Pony in Singapore at No.3, making it The Best Bar in Singapore for the fifth year running.
Last year’s top spot holder, Coa, comes in at No.4, and No.5 is Tokyo’s Bar Benfiddich, which takes the title of The Best Bar in Japan.
For the full list of Asia’s best bars, click here.
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