The Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026 ceremony was held in Macau, where China’s Hope & Sesame from Guangzhou took the top spot. The list features 50 bars from 22 cities, with 14 new entries this year. India had three bars on the list, with Bengaluru taking two spots, retaining its status as the bar capital of the country.
Hope & Sesame is a hidden speakeasy located behind a Cantonese store in the historic Dongshankou district. Founders Bastien Ciocca and Andrew Ho use techniques such as centrifugal clarification, sous vide infusions, and rotary distillation to marry tradition and innovation. China won seven spots on the list this year, its highest ever, showcasing its fast-growing cocktail scene.
Bangkok won eight spots on the list, cementing its position as a powerhouse, with Dry Wave Cocktail Studio, BKK Social Club, and Opium. Hong Kong was another clear winner with seven bars, such as Bar Leone, Shelley Tai, and Montana. Singapore, Seoul, and Jakarta secured four spots each.
The Indian bars on the list include Boilermaker from Goa, which came in at number 8 and was awarded The Best Bar in India. SOKA from Bengaluru ranked 18th, and Bar Spirit Forward from Bengaluru ranked 30th. These wins are indicative of the sustained effort and artistry of these establishments.
Boilermaker embodies the laid-back ‘susegad’ spirit of Goa, with a menu heavy on Goan ingredients. SOKA captures the local Bengaluru flavor, nostalgia, lingo, and ingredients in its cocktails. Bar Spirit Forward focuses on creating a buzzy atmosphere with technically sound cocktails.
While last year, five Indian bars had made the cut, and this year only three did, the wins are a testament to the creativity and consistency of these establishments. The full list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026 is available online.
