The Cocktail Renaissance: Handshake Speakeasy Takes the Crown
October 24, 2024, 6:41 am
In the world of mixology, the stakes are high, and the competition is fierce. The recent unveiling of The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list in Madrid has stirred excitement among cocktail enthusiasts. This year, the spotlight shines brightly on Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy, which has claimed the coveted title of the world’s best bar. It’s a historic moment, marking the first time a bar from Mexico has topped this prestigious list.
The Handshake Speakeasy is not just a bar; it’s an experience. Nestled in the vibrant Colonia Juárez neighborhood, it hides behind a secret door, beckoning adventurous souls. Inside, a treasure trove of vintage spirits awaits. Bar Director Eric Van Beek has mastered the art of blending tradition with innovation. His team crafts cocktails that are both familiar and surprising, elevating classic recipes with unexpected flavors. This fusion of old and new is what sets Handshake apart. It’s a cocktail revolution in a glass.
The competition was stiff. The top five bars also include Hong Kong’s Bar Leone at No. 2, Barcelona’s Sips at No. 3, London’s Tayēr + Elementary at No. 4, and Singapore’s Jigger & Pony at No. 5. Each of these establishments brings its own unique flair to the table. Bar Leone, a newcomer, has made waves with its innovative approach, while Sips, last year’s champion, continues to impress with its creativity. Tayēr + Elementary offers a blend of culinary and cocktail expertise, and Jigger & Pony has risen dramatically from No. 14 to No. 5, showcasing the dynamic nature of the bar scene.
This year’s list features bars from 28 cities, with 16 new entrants. It’s a testament to the global cocktail culture that continues to evolve. Each bar tells a story, reflecting its city’s spirit and the creativity of its bartenders. The awards celebrate not just the drinks but the community behind them. They recognize the hard work and passion that goes into crafting the perfect cocktail.
Among the notable awards, Monica Berg was named the Roku Industry Icon, a recognition of her influence in the bartending world. The Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award went to Zest in Seoul, highlighting the growing importance of sustainability in the industry. The Cambridge Public House in Paris earned the Nikka Highest Climber Award, jumping 19 places to No. 19. These accolades shine a light on the diverse talents and innovations shaping the bar landscape.
The Campari One To Watch Award was given to Singapore’s Cat Bite Club, a nod to its potential and rising popularity. Meanwhile, the Rémy Martin Legend of The List award went to Florería Atlántico in Buenos Aires, a bar that has consistently delivered exceptional experiences. Superbueno in New York snagged the London Essence Best New Opening Award, proving that the Big Apple remains a powerhouse in the cocktail scene.
The awards ceremony was a celebration of camaraderie and creativity. Bartenders from around the globe gathered to share their passion and expertise. It’s a community that thrives on collaboration and inspiration. The event not only recognizes individual achievements but also fosters connections among industry professionals.
As the cocktail renaissance continues, bars are pushing boundaries. They are experimenting with flavors, techniques, and presentations. The focus is not just on the drink itself but on the entire experience. Ambiance, service, and creativity all play crucial roles in crafting memorable moments.
The rise of plant-based bars, like Analogue Initiative, reflects changing consumer preferences. However, this bar will pause operations soon, reminding us of the transient nature of the industry. Trends come and go, but the essence of mixology remains rooted in creativity and passion.
The World’s 50 Best Bars list serves as a guide for cocktail lovers. It highlights the best places to sip and savor. Each bar on the list offers a unique experience, inviting patrons to explore new flavors and techniques. It’s a journey through the world of cocktails, where every sip tells a story.
As we raise our glasses to the winners, we celebrate the artistry of bartending. The craft is evolving, and the future looks bright. With each new cocktail, bartenders are redefining what it means to enjoy a drink. They are not just mixing ingredients; they are creating experiences.
In conclusion, the 2024 edition of The World’s 50 Best Bars is a testament to the vibrant cocktail culture. Handshake Speakeasy’s triumph is a beacon of innovation and creativity. As the industry continues to grow, we can expect more surprises and delights. The world of cocktails is a canvas, and the bartenders are the artists. Cheers to the future of mixology!
The Handshake Speakeasy is not just a bar; it’s an experience. Nestled in the vibrant Colonia Juárez neighborhood, it hides behind a secret door, beckoning adventurous souls. Inside, a treasure trove of vintage spirits awaits. Bar Director Eric Van Beek has mastered the art of blending tradition with innovation. His team crafts cocktails that are both familiar and surprising, elevating classic recipes with unexpected flavors. This fusion of old and new is what sets Handshake apart. It’s a cocktail revolution in a glass.
The competition was stiff. The top five bars also include Hong Kong’s Bar Leone at No. 2, Barcelona’s Sips at No. 3, London’s Tayēr + Elementary at No. 4, and Singapore’s Jigger & Pony at No. 5. Each of these establishments brings its own unique flair to the table. Bar Leone, a newcomer, has made waves with its innovative approach, while Sips, last year’s champion, continues to impress with its creativity. Tayēr + Elementary offers a blend of culinary and cocktail expertise, and Jigger & Pony has risen dramatically from No. 14 to No. 5, showcasing the dynamic nature of the bar scene.
This year’s list features bars from 28 cities, with 16 new entrants. It’s a testament to the global cocktail culture that continues to evolve. Each bar tells a story, reflecting its city’s spirit and the creativity of its bartenders. The awards celebrate not just the drinks but the community behind them. They recognize the hard work and passion that goes into crafting the perfect cocktail.
Among the notable awards, Monica Berg was named the Roku Industry Icon, a recognition of her influence in the bartending world. The Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award went to Zest in Seoul, highlighting the growing importance of sustainability in the industry. The Cambridge Public House in Paris earned the Nikka Highest Climber Award, jumping 19 places to No. 19. These accolades shine a light on the diverse talents and innovations shaping the bar landscape.
The Campari One To Watch Award was given to Singapore’s Cat Bite Club, a nod to its potential and rising popularity. Meanwhile, the Rémy Martin Legend of The List award went to Florería Atlántico in Buenos Aires, a bar that has consistently delivered exceptional experiences. Superbueno in New York snagged the London Essence Best New Opening Award, proving that the Big Apple remains a powerhouse in the cocktail scene.
The awards ceremony was a celebration of camaraderie and creativity. Bartenders from around the globe gathered to share their passion and expertise. It’s a community that thrives on collaboration and inspiration. The event not only recognizes individual achievements but also fosters connections among industry professionals.
As the cocktail renaissance continues, bars are pushing boundaries. They are experimenting with flavors, techniques, and presentations. The focus is not just on the drink itself but on the entire experience. Ambiance, service, and creativity all play crucial roles in crafting memorable moments.
The rise of plant-based bars, like Analogue Initiative, reflects changing consumer preferences. However, this bar will pause operations soon, reminding us of the transient nature of the industry. Trends come and go, but the essence of mixology remains rooted in creativity and passion.
The World’s 50 Best Bars list serves as a guide for cocktail lovers. It highlights the best places to sip and savor. Each bar on the list offers a unique experience, inviting patrons to explore new flavors and techniques. It’s a journey through the world of cocktails, where every sip tells a story.
As we raise our glasses to the winners, we celebrate the artistry of bartending. The craft is evolving, and the future looks bright. With each new cocktail, bartenders are redefining what it means to enjoy a drink. They are not just mixing ingredients; they are creating experiences.
In conclusion, the 2024 edition of The World’s 50 Best Bars is a testament to the vibrant cocktail culture. Handshake Speakeasy’s triumph is a beacon of innovation and creativity. As the industry continues to grow, we can expect more surprises and delights. The world of cocktails is a canvas, and the bartenders are the artists. Cheers to the future of mixology!