Bar of the Year Award

Bar of the Year Award

The Bar of the Year Award recognizes an establishment that exemplifies excellence across every aspect of the bar experience. This honor celebrates venues that consistently deliver outstanding cocktails, exceptional hospitality, and a clear, cohesive identity that elevates the craft of mixology.

More than a destination, the winning bar represents a standard. It is a place where creativity, professionalism, and atmosphere come together to create memorable experiences night after night.


What the Award Represents

The Bar of the Year Award honors establishments that demonstrate:

  • A well-defined vision and distinctive identity

  • Consistent excellence in cocktail execution

  • A strong and thoughtfully curated program

  • Outstanding hospitality and guest experience

  • Leadership within the local or global bar community

This award recognizes bars that do not simply follow trends, but help shape them.

Path to Consideration

Bars are identified through industry recognition, standout cocktail programs, and submitted nominations throughout the year.

Evaluation reflects:

  • Quality, balance, and originality of the cocktail menu

  • Team training, culture, and professionalism

  • Cohesion between concept, service, and execution

  • Influence and reputation within the broader hospitality landscape

Final selection is determined by a review panel based on performance, impact, and overall excellence.


Why It Matters

Bars are the heartbeat of mixology. They are where ideas are tested, standards are refined, and culture is built. The Bar of the Year Award exists to honor establishments that understand this responsibility and rise to it.

This award celebrates not just a place, but the people and principles behind it.


The Bar of the Year Award is reserved for venues that define what a great bar can be.

A destination of purpose.
A standard of excellence.
A place worth returning to.