Mexico City bar tops World’s 50 Best list for 2024
Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City has ranked No.1 in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024, the first bar from Mexico to take the top spot in the annual list.
The 16th awards ceremony was held in Madrid and saw venues from 28 cities around the world recognised.
Handshake Speakeasy is tucked away in Mexico City’s Colonia Juárez neighbourhood. Hidden behind a secret door and stocked with an array of vintage spirits, the bar features black marble, rich brass detailing and moody lighting to evoke the bygone age of the Hollywood speakeasy.
Bar Director Eric van Beek is described as “effortlessly melding tradition and innovation, elevating the classics through cutting-edge technique developed in the on-site lab, revolutionising familiar recipes with unexpected flavours and a complex palate. Homemade tinctures and infusions add signature Art Deco flare alongside the use of considered rare and aged spirits.”
Other major awards on the night included the Roku Industry Icon Award for Monica Berg of London’s Tayēr + Elementary and the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award for Lyaness in London.
The Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award went to Seoul’s Zest, Himkok in Oslo won the Bareksten Best Bar Design Award and Superbueno in New York was named London Essence Best New Opening.
For the first time in five years, Australia has a new best bar, with Melbourne’s Caretaker’s Cottage rising two places to No.21 . It is joined by Sydney’s Maybe Sammy at No.26 and new entry Byrdi, also in Melbourne, at No.35.
Top 10 – World’s 50 Best Bars 2024
1. Handshake Speakeasy - Mexico City
2. Bar Leone - Hong Kong
3. Sips - Barcelona
4. Tayēr + Elementary - London
5. Jigger & Pony - Singapore
6. Line - Athens
7. Tres Monos - Buenos Aires
8. Alquímico - Cartagena
9. Zest - Seoul
10. Paradiso - Barcelona
W: Find the full list at worlds50bestbars.com
