The Bar in Front of the Bar jumps 28 places

The Bar in Front of the Bar delivered one of the most significant climbs in this year’s rankings, rising from No. The Athens venue also won the Nikka Highest Climber Award, recognising its rise of 28 places. The bar began as a street-side pop-up in 2021, serving drinks through a hatch after its original indoor venue temporarily closed.

The concept proved popular and developed into a permanent destination, retaining its informal atmosphere and close connection with the street. Its creative approach to cocktails and relaxed style have helped it build an international following while maintaining a distinctly urban Athens identity. The venue also ranked second in the 2026 Europe’s 50 Best Bars list, announced earlier this year.

Barro Negro breaks into the global top 50 Barro Negro completed the Greek trio, climbing from No. 40 in the world, securing a place among the top 50 bars for the first time. Located on Paparigopoulou Street in central Athens, the venue has built its reputation around agave spirits and Mexican drinking culture.

Its cocktail offering reflects the founders’ research trips to Mexico, with tequila and mezcal playing a central role in the bar’s identity. The rise follows its strong performance in the European rankings, where Barro Negro also earned recognition earlier in 2026. Its latest result further demonstrates the diversity of Athens’ cocktail scene, which encompasses everything from fermentation-focused experimentation to specialist agave bars.

Hong Kong bar retains the world’s No. 1 spot While Athens celebrated three entries in the top 50, Hong Kong’s Bar Leone retained first place for the second consecutive year. The global top 10 for 2026 is: Bar Leone, Hong Kong Moebius Milano, Milan Alquímico, Cartagena Bar Us, Bangkok Line, Athens Handshake Speakeasy, Mexico City Zest, Seoul Connaught Bar, London Lady Bee, Lima Bar Mauro, Mexico City The rankings showcase the international reach of contemporary cocktail culture, with venues from Asia, Europe and Latin America represented among the leading establishments.

Athens strengthens its international appeal Athens’ success comes amid the city’s growing profile as a destination for food, drink and cultural experiences. The Greek capital has increasingly attracted visitors seeking more than a stopover before travelling to the islands.