India Claims Three Spots in Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026 as Regional Powerhouses Shift
Goa's Boilermaker secured a top-ten position while Bengaluru confirmed its status as a premier cocktail hub with two entries. The 2026 rankings saw China's Hope & Sesame take the lead during a ceremony in Macau.
Regional Leaders and Emerging Trends
Guangzhou’s Hope & Sesame climbed to the premier position in the 2026 Asia’s 50 Best Bars rankings, unveiled during a recent ceremony in Macau. This hidden speakeasy, operating behind a traditional storefront in the Dongshankou district, utilizes advanced methods like rotary distillation and centrifugal clarification. The broader regional performance indicates a significant shift toward mainland China and Thailand. China secured seven positions—its strongest showing to date—while Bangkok emerged as a dominant force with eight entries, including Dry Wave Cocktail Studio and BKK Social Club.
The Indian Contingent: Reliability and Growth
India maintained a solid presence with three establishments making the final cut, down from five the previous year. Despite the volume decrease, the remaining entries displayed significant upward mobility. Goa’s Boilermaker achieved the highest rank for the country, jumping from 30th to 8th and earning the title of Best Bar in India. Co-founder Pankaj Balachandran attributes the success of the Siolim-based shack to genuine hospitality over aesthetics, utilizing distinct regional components like the local spirit dukshiri in their signature Biso Manana Karamel.
Bengaluru Maintains Cocktail Dominance
Bengaluru continues to function as India’s primary hub for mixology, hosting the country's other two ranked venues. Located in Indiranagar, SOKA ascended ten places to reach number 18. Led by Sombir Choudhary and Avinash Kapoli, the bar focuses on liquid nostalgia, featuring drinks like the Cheese Cherry Pineapple and Black Cadillac that reference historic local landmarks. Meanwhile, Bar Spirit Forward moved to the 30th spot, recognized for its sleek, New York-inspired atmosphere and technically precise cocktails, such as the tequila-based Southern Star.
Snapshot of the Asia’s 50 Best Bars Top 10
- 1. Hope & Sesame, Guangzhou
- 2. Zest, Seoul
- 3. Bar Leone, Hong Kong
- 4. Dry Wave Cocktail Studio, Bangkok
- 5. MO Bar Shenzhen, Shenzhen
- 6. Bar Us, Bangkok
- 7. Lennon’s, Bangkok
- 8. Boilermaker, Goa
- 9. Jigger & Pony, Singapore
- 10. Obsidian Bar, Shenzhen
Source: The Hindu - Lifestyle
