World’s 50 Best Bars 2012 - the crème de la crème of the industry

Every bar aspires to be exceptional, have something unique that clients desire and seek. Be it an amazing hospitality and service, cocktail menu, décor or a seducing atmosphere. This year’s awards ceremony of the World’s 50 Best Bars once again honoured those who made it reality.

It took place on the 10^th of October and was one of the highlights of the London Cocktail Week, an excellent opportunity to see and taste through what is new in the drinks industry. 

It was staged just steps away from Trafalgar Square at London’s 8 Northumberland, a venue that represents Victorian grandeur and luxury at their finest.

The Old Billiard Room was transformed for this occasion into a modern style club bathed in a dimmed dark blue light. Four bars installed around the place and starring some of the most talented London mixologists were serving cocktails incessantly all through the night for a 400-strong guestlist that featured the academy of judges, top bartenders, bar owners and trade press. The extravagance, elegance and glamour of the guests and their attire was akin to the richness and diversity of the industry.

Everybody looked very cool and relaxed while sipping on sophisticated cocktails, chatting away and nibbling on the elaborate finger food that circulated around the venue on platters carried by sharply dressed waiters who moved between the guests with catlike agility. However, there was a lot of tension and anticipation in the air. The hunger to win, to show off, to beat the competition was massive.

Nearly 150 judges from 38 countries voted in the competition. They were not just a random lot but world class specialists and gurus including the industry legends such as “King Cocktail” Dale DeGroff and “the Maestro” Salvatore Calabrese; multi-awarded mixologists, and bar owners who have been setting new trends for years.

As the results were being announced there was a general thrill of excitement and joy. After all, many bartenders and owners of the competing bars have known each other for years either from work, events or competitions, often supporting each others’ careers. It is undoubtedly a community that spreads an amazing energy and makes fun and magic happen for all of us. Without any doubt they are addicted to the nightlife, and even unsocial working hours, which in fact could not be more social, cannot stop them from making bars their second home for life.

The results

World’s Best Bar – Artesian, Langham Hotel, London

Best Bar in North America – PDT, New York

Best Bar in Asia Pacific and Highest New Entry – Baxter Inn, Sydney

Best Bar in Europe and Highest Climber – Mutis, Barcelona

Best Bar in Latin America & Caribbean – La Capilla, Tequila

Best Bar in Africa & Middle East – Asoka, Cape Town

For complete list of the bars click here

For the list of the Academy 2012 click here

Originally published in Spanish in  BAR AND DRINKS.