Archive · 25 Jul 2025
The Secret Ingredients to an Award-Winning Bar
Imagine going to a really cool bar.
It's not just about the fancy drinks!
The best bars are friendly and make you feel good.
This year, a bar called Bar Leone in Hong Kong won the top award again.
Lots of bars in India also did really well.
What makes them special?
They focus on being welcoming, having a unique style, and making sure everyone has a great time, from the staff to the customers.
Bar Leone in Hong Kong wins Asia's Best Bar for the second year in a row.
India sees a record number of bars (9) on the Asia's 50 Best Bars list.
Key factors for award-winning bars include hospitality, authenticity, and vibe.
Some bars excel by creating a strong sense of place, transporting guests.
The team's happiness and inspiration extend into a bar's drinks and service.
- Who
- Lorenzo Antinori (Bar Leone), bar owners, staff, and guests.
- What
- Factors that make a bar award-winning.
- When
- Recent and upcoming awards ceremonies.
- Where
- Asia, with focus on Hong Kong, Macau, and India.
- Why
- To understand what makes bars successful and celebrated.
Customer's Perspective
Bar Operator's Perspective
Focus on Drinks vs. Beyond Drinks
Customer's Perspective
Customers want good drinks.
Bar Operator's Perspective
Good drinks are the minimum; customer wants more than the drink.
- Bar Leone Awards
- Asia's Best Bar (2024, 2025), Best Bar in Hong Kong, Highest New Entry Award
- India's Representation (2025)
- 9 bars on the Asia's 50 Best Bars list
- Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award
- Barc (Kathmandu)
- Asia's Most Sustainable Bar Award
- Fura (Singapore)
- Emphasis
- Kindness, Authenticity, Team happiness