MADRID, Spain – The annual list of The World’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, has been unveiled as part of a live awards ceremony in Madrid, Spain on October 22, 2024. Now in its 16th edition, the awards once again united the global bar community in recognition of the bartenders, bar owners and brands at the forefront of the international cocktail scene.
The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 features venues from an astonishing 28 cities, with Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy crowned The Best Bar in North America and The World’s Best Bar, sponsored by Perrier. This is the first time a bar from Mexico has claimed the No.1 spot in the list.
Tucked away in the Colonia Juárez neighbourhood of Mexico City, Handshake Speakeasy is one of the capital’s best-kept open secrets. Hidden behind a secret door in a dimly lit room stocked with an impressive array of vintage spirits, the bar’s interiors masterfully evoke the bygone age of the Hollywood speakeasy.
While the atmospheric black marble, rich brass detailing and moody lighting of the interior are akin to stepping back a century, the innovative cocktail menu is rooted firmly in the future. Bar Director Eric van Beek effortlessly melds 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.
Emma Sleight, Head of Content for The World’s 50 Best Bars, says: “It is with immense pride that we announce Handshake Speakeasy as The World’s Best Bar 2024, sponsored by Perrier. To be the first ever No.1 from Mexico is an outstanding achievement, of which Eric van Beek and his team are hugely deserving. 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. We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every bar on this year’s list, which once again highlights the incredible diversity of the global bar sector. We hope that this year’s list continues to operate as a beacon for cocktail lovers the world over.”
The Region of Madrid and Madrid City Council, say: “Huge congratulations to the teams whose bars have been named on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 list. It has been a great honour to host so many talented bar owners and bartenders from all around the world, here in Madrid. Madrid has established itself as a key gastronomic and drinks destination worldwide, thanks to the diverse talent of internationally renowned chefs and bartenders who have chosen the city as the location for their restaurants and bars. The recognition of hosting The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 reinforces Madrid’s appeal for those looking for high quality cocktail experiences.”
