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Leone, an Italian-style cocktail bar located in Hong Kong’s bustling Central district, has claimed the top spot in the prestigious World’s 50 Best Bars 2025 list, becoming the first Asian bar in history to do so, reports Robb Report.

Opened less than three years ago, Leone has already been named Asia’s best bar for two consecutive years and ranked second globally last year. The brainchild of Roman bartender Lorenzo Antinori, the bar draws inspiration from the intimate neighborhood bars of Rome and focuses on the concept of cocktail popolari — “cocktails for the people.” The cocktail menu is regularly updated and shared as a Google Doc with full recipes, ensuring every drink is accessible to guests.

Antinori, who has worked in top-tier European hotel bars, has moved away from complex modern mixology in favor of straightforward cocktails that highlight the quality of the ingredients. Signature drinks like the Yuzu Negroni and Olive Oil Sour are complemented by light snacks such as mortadella focaccia and smoked olives, bringing the authentic atmosphere of Rome to the heart of Hong Kong.

Coming in second is Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy, last year’s top bar, which retains its title as North America’s best. Barcelona spots Sips and Paradiso took third and fourth places, while London’s Tayēr + Elementary and Connaught Bar ranked fifth and sixth, respectively.

Other accolades included Mexico City’s Mauro being named One to Watch, New York’s Sip & Guzzle winning Best New Opening, Australia’s Tigra + Disco Pantera taking home Best Bar Design, and Penang’s Backdoor Bodega awarded Best Cocktail Menu. Greece’s Baba au Rum was honored as Legend of the List.

The World’s 50 Best Bars rankings are determined by over 800 global experts in the beverage industry, including bartenders, consultants, writers, and cocktail specialists.

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