For the 16th year in a row, the World’s 50 Best Bars list of the year has been unveiled, this time during an event in the Spanish capital Madrid. The list considers the opinions of an Academy of 700 experts, including mixologists, bar owners and drinks writers. For the first time ever, a Mexican bar has come out on top of the ranking.
Spain remains an influential nation in the global cocktail arena, making its capital a suitable location for the awards. “Madrid is iconic. Every bar here tells a story, and offers a unique chapter in the city’s narrative,” said Tim Brooke-Webb, managing director at The World’s 50 Best. “From the classic tapas bars to the temples of mixology, Madrid really is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.”
The list’s winner has historically been located in New York City or Europe. Thus, the fact that Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City—occupying the third spot in the ranking in 2023—came out on top is extra special.
“To be the first ever No.1 from Mexico is an outstanding achievement, of which Eric van Beek and his team are hugely deserving,” Emma Sleight, the head of content for the World’s 50 Best Bars, said in a statement. “The bar’s impressive rise through the list of The World’s 50 Best Bars over the years is a testament to their unique combination of flawless hospitality, innovative technique and truly excellent cocktails.”
The World’s Best Bar 2024 and The Best Bar in North America 2024, sponsored by Perrier is… Handshake Speakeasy in #MexicoCity! Huge congratulations to the whole team! #Worlds50BestBars @perrier pic.twitter.com/OgOeUvWHc3
— 50BestBars (@50BestBars) October 22, 2024
The bar, located in the Colonia Juárez neighbourhood, was inspired by the Prohibition era. Two spaces offer different vibes: one intimate Gatsby-esque room offers space for 32 guests, while the basement area sports a more Mexican energy. As far as the drinks go, head bartender Eric Van Beek “uses advanced culinary techniques in prep, each drink is more complex than meets the eye, often taking 48 hours to craft from start to finish and usually boasting unexpected textures” according to The World’s 50 Best Bars. When ordering, try The Fig Martini or the Salt N Pepper.
“Winning is a dream come true. Nothing is impossible, if you focus and really work at it. I’m super happy and proud of the entire team. We really are like a family, and we are beyond thrilled to represent Mexico”, co-founder Rodrigo Urraca said in an interview with Travel + Leisure.
World’s best bars 2024
- Handshake Speakeasy, Mexico City
- Bar Leone, Hong Kong
- Sips, Barcelona
- Tayēr + Elementary, London
- Jigger & Pony, Singapore
- Line, Athens
- Tres Monos, Buenos Aires
- Alquímico, Cartagena
- Zest, Seoul
- Paradiso, Barcelona
- Himkok, Oslo
- BKK Social Club, Bangkok
- Connaught Bar, London
- Double Chicken Please, New York
- Overstory, New York
- Lady Bee, Lima
- Baba au Rum, Athens
- Coa, Hong Kong
- The Cambridge Public House, Paris
- Tlecān, Mexico City
The rest of the top 50 can be found on The World’s 50 Best website.
