HONG KONG – The clink of glasses echoed through Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Cruise Terminal last night as the global bar elite gathered under the glittering lights of Victoria Harbour. For one electric evening, the city that never sleeps was the center of the cocktail universe. And when the announcement came that Bar Leone had been named The World’s Best Bar 2025, the crowd erupted in cheers that could rival the city’s famous skyline.

For the first time ever, the world’s most prestigious bar awards, The World’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, were hosted in Hong Kong, bringing together over 2,000 of the industry’s brightest talents for a weeklong celebration of mixology and creativity. From guest shifts to cocktail collaborations, Hong Kong’s streets buzzed with the kind of energy only great drinks and even greater dreams can create, a win not just for Bar Leone but the city itself.

At the heart of it all stood Bar Leone, the Italian-inspired cocktail haven helmed by industry visionary Lorenzo Antinori. Tucked away in Hong Kong’s SoHo district, Bar Leone has become a symbol of craftsmanship and conviviality, where classic Italian aperitivo culture meets the city’s unmistakable pulse. “To be named the number one bar in the world is not only an incredible honour for us, but also a truly proud moment for Hong Kong,” said Antinori, raising a Negroni to the crowd. “This recognition affirms that our city belongs at the very heart of the global bar industry, celebrated for its creativity and warm hospitality.”

That blend of creativity and warmth is precisely what defines Hong Kong’s bar scene today: a melting pot of influences that mirrors the city itself. Alongside Bar Leone’s crowning glory, COA, the beloved agave temple led by Jay Khan, landed at No. 38 on this year’s list. “Being recognised among the world’s best is a testament to our team’s hard work and passion,” said Khan. “Hosting the awards in our hometown makes it even more special. It’s a proud moment for Hong Kong.”

And the pride runs deep. Hong Kong owned the spotlight: with five local bars featured across the extended list, including ARGO (No. 56), newcomer GOKAN (No. 70), and The Savory Project (No. 86), the city reaffirmed its status as Asia’s cocktail powerhouse. This was a declaration that Hong Kong, resilient and ever-evolving, has reclaimed its place on the global stage as a beacon of creativity, craftsmanship, and connection. As the evening unfolded over the twinkling waters of Victoria Harbour, one thing became clear: the world’s best bars aren’t just about drinks; they’re about stories, spirit, and the people who bring them to life.

So if you find yourself wandering the city’s neon-lit streets this season, step into one of its many award-winning bars. Order something bold, something beautiful, something that tastes like Hong Kong itself, a city that continues to raise the bar, one cocktail at a time.

Find out more about the World’s 50 Best Bars 2025 hereTo start planning your trip to Hong Kong, visit https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/explore/dining/50-best-hong-kong.html.