Independent bar journalism.
Top 50 Bars Asia is an editorial project ranking and profiling standout bars worldwide. We are not affiliated with any single hotel group or spirits brand.
From a spreadsheet to a global directory.
Top 50 Bars Asia began as a private shortlist shared among bartenders visiting each other’s cities. We turned it public when readers asked for the same detail we gave friends.
Today a jury of bartenders, writers, and hospitality operators scores new entries each season. Editorial staff writes every profile in house.
We publish in English first, then translate once copy is final. List positions never change because of advertising or sponsorship.
Editorial planning session, London office
Eight years on the road.
- 2018
First public list
Twenty-five bars across London and New York with short profiles.
- 2020
Europe expansion
Barcelona, Paris, and Athens rooms joined the core ranking.
- 2023
The 50-bar format
We adopted the annual 50-bar structure readers expect from global lists.
- Today
Full directory launch
Every ranked bar receives a searchable profile and city landing pages.
Principles behind every profile.
Four rules the editorial team applies before a bar earns a list position.
- Trusted by
- International press
- Global bar jury
- City editors
Frequently asked questions
Answers from the Top 50 Bars Asia editorial team.
Who votes on the bar list?
A rotating jury of bartenders, bar owners, drinks writers, and hospitality operators. Voters are disclosed each season on the methodology page so readers know who shaped the ranking.
How often is the list updated?
The core 50-bar ranking is refreshed annually. Individual profiles update whenever a venue reopens, changes concept, or earns a new award from Europe’s or the World’s 50 Best Bars.
Do brands sponsor list positions?
No. Brand partnerships may fund photography and travel, but they never change rank order, scores, or the editorial text on a bar profile in Top 50 Bars Asia.
How do I correct a bar profile?
Email editorial@top50bars.asia with the bar name and the detail to fix. We verify with the venue or its published channels before updating hours, menus, or contact information.
Nominate a bar for the next list.
Tell our editorial desk about a room we should visit next season.