Italian venue rises to top spot from second place, marking first Asian winner in awards’ history as Hong Kong’s bar scene rebounds.
Hong Kong’s Bar Leone has been named the World’s Best Bar 2025, marking the first time an Asian venue has claimed the prestigious title. The Italian-themed establishment, which opened less than three years ago, has climbed from second place last year to secure the top spot.
Located in Hong Kong’s Central district, Bar Leone has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant cocktail scene under the leadership of Roman mixologist Lorenzo Antinori. The bar has earned particular acclaim for its innovative takes on classic cocktails, including its signature olive oil sour and refined interpretations of the negroni.
“We want to share this with the city of Hong Kong and the Asia bar community,” Antinori said to Bloomberg, who previously honed his craft in London and Seoul. “It’s really about having a vision and creating spaces that have a true identity.”
The top 10 was dominated by European venues, with Barcelona claiming two spots (Sips and Paradiso at third and fourth), London also securing two positions (Tayer & Elementary and Connaught Bar at fifth and sixth), alongside newcomers Moebius Milano and Athens’ Line. The Americas were represented by Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy at second place and Buenos Aires’ Tres Monos at tenth, while Singapore’s Jigger & Pony rounded out the Asian presence in the top ranks.
The accolade comes at a crucial time for Hong Kong’s hospitality sector, which is steadily recovering from the impact of strict pandemic restrictions. Bar Leone’s success has already prompted expansion plans, with a Shanghai branch set to open in November.
The annual rankings, compiled by 50 Best organisation with input from over 800 industry experts, were announced at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, marking only the second time the ceremony has been held in Asia.
The award also comes days after our own guide to Hong Kong’s most affordable cocktail bars — check it out if you want to experience the city’s burgeoning bar scene without breaking the bank.
