When a drinker declares “This is the best pub in the world” on a night out, it’s usually taken with a pinch of salt – but now an official ranking has revealed the ultimate global drinking destinations.
Top 500 Bars, an online ranking site that does exactly what it says on the tin, has used a complex algorithm to crunch “thousands of data points” in over 20 languages, serving up a definitive list of the world’s finest watering holes, reports the Daily Mail.
UK bar crowned world’s best as Europe dominates top 10
In a major coup for Britain, the coveted top spot went to a UK bar, with an impressive six of the top 10 located in Europe.
From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the minimalist chic of Korea, the top 10 span the globe – but it’s the Scottish capital that’s home to the world’s number one.
1. Panda & Sons (Edinburgh, Scotland)
With an average rating of 4.6 stars based on more than 2,400 Google reviews, the top spot went to Scottish cocktail bar Panda & Sons.
According to the ranking, the bar is all about “friendly Scottish service in intimate and cosy surroundings”.
Panda & Sons is the brainchild of famed Scottish bartender Iain McPherson.
Their cocktail menu offers exciting drinks using the latest techniques, including their very own called “Switching.”
“Switching” involves isolating water from spirits and swapping it with another non-alcoholic liquid.
2. Paradiso (Barcelona, Spain)
With almost 7,000 Google reviews and an average rating of 4.3 stars, in second place, Paradiso in Barcelona, Spain, is a “speakeasy-style bar” located behind a Pastrami Bar you enter through an old refrigerator.
3. Bar Leone (Hong Kong, China)
In the heart of Hong Kong, Bar Leone is an Italian-inspired spot that pays homage to Roman neighbourhood bars.
Founded by Roman bartender Lorenzo Antinori, Bar Leone is a bar that celebrates community and the love of classic cocktails.
7. Tayēr + Elementary (London, UK)
In London’s first appearance on the list, Tayēr + Elementary took seventh place.
Close to Bartholomew Square, the cocktail bar was opened in June 2019 by renowned bartenders Monica Berg and Alex Kretena.
Tayer+Elementary is split into two different bar concepts. Elementary, situated at the front of the bar, is a light and casual bar focused on providing simple seasonal drinks and snacks. Tayer is a more progressive and experimental bar with a more elevated offering.
8. Alquimico (Cartagena, Colombia)
Alquímico in Cartagena, Colombia, is split over three floors, each with a different concept.
It offers cocktails highlighting local ingredients with music provided by DJs playing modern mixes of eclectic sounds.
9. Moebius (Milan, Italy)
With more than 1,500 Google reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, Moebius in Milan takes its spot in the top 10.
The ranking describes Moebius as a “space for sharing where cuisine, music and hospitality blend together in an inextricable intertwining”.
10. SIPS (Barcelona, Spain)
In tenth place, SIPS in Barcelona is “set to redefine Barcelona’s bar scene, blurring the lines between haute couture and pret-a-porter”, according to the Top 500 Bars.
Owned by internationally recognised mixologists Simone Caporale and Marc Alvarez, the bar is known for its innovative approach that combines high-level artistry with accessibility.
The bar is described as a “disruptive cocktail experience that evolves with every sip”.
