The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024: Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico, Jigger & Pony in Singapore & More Bars You NEED to Visit
PUBLISHED October 23rd, 2024 10:30 am | UPDATED October 31st, 2024 11:09 am
The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list has been revealed, and it’s a true celebration of the finest cocktail havens from every corner of the globe! This year, the competition was fiercer than ever, with 28 cities serving up some seriously innovative drinks and experiences. Leading the pack is Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City, crowned No.1 for the first time – a huge milestone for Mexico. This sleek speakeasy is all about art deco decor combined with cutting-edge cocktails like the Matcha Martini, Olive Oil Gimlet, and Saffron – we can see why it’s a world favourite!
Among the top ten, Mexico’s Handshake Speakeasy is followed by Hong Kong’s Bar Leone at No.2, an exciting newcomer that also took home the Disaronno Highest New Entry Award. Barcelona’s Sips ranks third, while London’s Tayēr + Elementary takes the fourth spot, maintaining its reputation as one of Europe’s finest. Singapore’s own Jigger & Pony holds the No.5 spot, reinforcing its status as a bar that combines stellar service with world-class cocktails. Other standout mentions include Line in Athens (No.6), Tres Monos in Buenos Aires (No.7), and Zest in Seoul (No.9), which also snagged the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award.
Asia’s Cocktail Renaissance & Exploring New Cocktail Frontiers
Singapore had a remarkable showing this year, with four bars making the list. In addition to Jigger & Pony, Nutmeg & Clove came in at No.28, and newcomer Analogue Initiative secured No.47. Atlas, a perennial favourite known for its opulent art deco setting and gin collection, ranked No.43. Singapore’s continued dominance in the bar scene is further highlighted by Cat Bite Club, which received the prestigious Campari One To Watch Award, suggesting it’s one to keep an eye on for future editions of the list.
Beyond Singapore, Asia saw notable success. Hong Kong’s Coa, joined Bar Leone in the top 50 list, coming at (No.18). Seoul’s Zest came in at No.9, while Tokyo’s Bar Benfiddich and newcomer Virtù ranked No.25 and No.42, respectively. Bangkok’s BKK Social Club took the No.12 spot, and Bar Us joined the ranks at No.41. This year’s list underscores Asia’s thriving bar culture, with creative concepts and expertly crafted cocktails continuing to win over international critics.
Moreover, the diversity of the cocktail scene really stands out this year. Bars from cities like Guadalajara’s El Gallo Altanero (No.48) and Bogotá’s La Sala de Laura (No.44) are proof that top-tier cocktails are emerging beyond the usual capitals. It’s a great sign for those on the lookout for unique cocktail experiences in new places.
Special Awards & Celebrating Industry Trailblazers
This year’s list wasn’t just about the rankings – it also celebrated some unique achievements. Monica Berg of London’s Tayēr + Elementary (No.4) was awarded the Roku Industry Icon Award for her leadership in sustainability and education within the cocktail scene, further cementing her status as a trailblazer in the industry. New York’s Superbueno (No.27) was named Best New Opening, while The Cambridge Public House in Paris claimed the Nikka Highest Climber Award, leaping 19 places to No.19. These awards highlight the ever-evolving innovation and influence of key figures and bars shaping the future of cocktails.
Here’s the full list:
What are your thoughts on this year’s list? Who do you want to see on the list next year? Share with us on our social media platforms at @citynomads.
All images courtesy of respective establishments. Top Image: Handshake Speakeasy (L), Jigger & Pony (R)
