The World’s 50 Best Bars 2025 (51–100)

September 24, 2025

Every autumn, The World’s 50 Best Bars ranking captures the attention of the global bar industry. While the dazzling Top 50 often dominate headlines, the “secondary list” of 51–100 is increasingly significant. It not only offers recognition to more bars around the world but also reveals shifts in cultural influence and geographic balance within the cocktail scene. The 2025 edition reaffirms one message: cocktails are no longer confined to a handful of global capitals—they are becoming a truly multi-centered phenomenon.

A Multi-Centered Landscape: From Global Capitals to Secondary Cities

For much of the past decade, New York, London, and Singapore seemed to monopolize the conversation. This year’s extended list, however, highlights the rise of secondary cities. Medellín in Colombia, Taichung in Taiwan, and Hiriketiya in Sri Lanka are not typically seen on the cocktail map, yet their bars now stand on the global stage.

This decentralization adds layers of richness. Local ingredients, cultural traditions, and urban energy are being reinterpreted through cocktails. Sri Lanka’s tropical spices and island sensibilities, for example, offer a completely different narrative from the classic styles of New York or London.

Asia’s Internal Rivalries

Asia continues to be one of the most fiercely contested regions. Hong Kong’s strong showing—with three bars in the 51–100—signals its post-pandemic recovery as an international hub. Taichung’s first-ever entry underscores that Taiwan’s cocktail culture is no longer confined to Taipei.

Yet, the same momentum also points to growing competition within Asia itself. Singapore, Tokyo, Bangkok, and Hong Kong are all vying for the title of “cocktail capital of Asia.” For bar operators, this means not only keeping innovation alive but also finding ways to stand out in markets that are increasingly saturated. Consumers may enjoy more options, but the pressure on venues is immense.

Latin America and Africa: Reinterpreting Cultural Identity

Latin America remains a dynamic force. Mexico City continues its strong presence, but the two debut entries from Medellín stand out. These are more than just new names on a list—they symbolize recognition for a city that has historically been overlooked. In contrast to the established reputations of Buenos Aires or São Paulo, Medellín’s rise feels like a new chapter for the region.

Africa and the Middle East also deserve attention. Bars in Nairobi and Dubai are steadily climbing, reflecting their ambition to integrate into the global cocktail conversation. These markets may still sit at the periphery of international attention, but with growing tourism and rising local demand, they could become much more visible in the years ahead.

Beyond the Ranking: What This Means for Bar Culture

A thoughtful reading of the 51–100 list goes beyond tracking who moved up or down. It highlights broader industry directions:

-Innovation plus local identity: Judges are increasingly valuing reinterpretations of local culture and flavors rather than just technical perfection in classic cocktails.

-A platform for cultural exchange: The list itself is becoming a stage where consumers encounter unfamiliar cities through a glass of something new.

-Risks of the “list economy”: As rankings gain influence, there’s a danger that bars may chase trends to please voters, sometimes at the expense of their true local audience.

The Unique Value of the Extended List

Some might dismiss the 51–100 ranking as “consolation prizes,” but its value lies precisely in its diversity. This list captures the energy of a global cocktail culture that is expanding outward—geographically, creatively, and culturally.

For the industry, it offers recognition and encouragement to those operating outside the usual hotspots. For drinkers, it provides a new travel map: each bar becomes not just a venue but a window into the soul of a city.