‘Εβίβα!’ It’s official: Europe’s Best Bar is in Greece

'Εβίβα!' It's official: Europe's Best Bar is in Greece

Εβίβα It s official - For the first time in its history, Europe’s 50 Best Bars list has been unveiled, marking a significant milestone in the continent’s vibrant bar culture. This annual ranking, compiled by UK-based business media company William Reed, has traditionally focused on the World’s 50 Best Bars, a list that has been published since 2009. Now, the spotlight is firmly on Europe, with Greece emerging as a standout destination. The announcement took place yesterday in Amsterdam during a live awards ceremony, where more than 300 drinks experts from across the region cast their votes to determine the top venues. The results reflect not only the excellence of individual bars but also the broader growth of Europe’s craft cocktail scene.

The Rise of European Bartending

Athens celebrated a strong showing on the list, securing two of the top three spots. Line, the Greek capital’s flagship bar, claimed the number one position, while The Bar in Front of the Bar followed closely at number two. Both venues are celebrated for their innovative approaches and immersive experiences. The Bar in Front of the Bar, with its name as a playful nod to Greece’s informal drinking culture, offers a plush lounge environment that contrasts with its street-level appearance. This duality has become a hallmark of its appeal, blending the simplicity of al fresco culture with sophisticated, locally inspired serves.

Meanwhile, London continued to dominate the list with seven entries in the Top 50, Barcelona had six, and Paris claimed five. These cities have long been recognized as global hubs for mixology, but the European list highlights a shift toward regional diversity. While the top spots were claimed by Greek bars, other notable entries included Barro Negro at No.13, Baba au Rum at No.14, and The Clumsies at No.30. Thessaloniki-based Gorilla rounded out the Greek contingent at No.33, proving that the country’s bar scene is a formidable force across the continent.

Notable Bars in the Top 10

Connaught Bar, a regular fixture on the World’s 50 Best Bars list since 2008, returned to the Top 10 with its timeless elegance. Known for its iconic martini trolley, the bar exemplifies the blend of luxury and tradition. “Perhaps the quintessential luxury hotel bar experience, Connaught Bar has perfected luxe hospitality and service,” said one expert. The trio of legendary bartenders—Agostino Perrone, Maura Millia, and Giorgio Bargiani—has maintained its reputation for over 15 years, crafting cocktails that balance sophistication with approachability.

Baradise, a Barcelona-based gem, offered a Gaudi-inspired speakeasy that transformed a pastrami shop into a cocktail wonderland. “Behind the fridge door of a pastrami shop in Barcelona, you’ll find this Gaudi-inspired speakeasy. Inside, a wonderland of cocktails awaits, dreamed up by the Paradiso team,” noted a judge. The duo Giacomo Giannotti and Margarita Sader, who lead the bar, have turned it into a cultural landmark, where whimsical designs and expertly crafted drinks create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Another highlight was the Mirror Bar, a strikingly designed lounge in Slovakia. “A glamorous, emerald-toned lounge centred around a striking central tree anchor, Mirror Bar is an intimate, theatrical and unforgettable space,” described one reviewer. The bar, which won the Michter's Art of Hospitality Award 2026, showcases a unique fusion of reinterpreted classics and avant-garde creations, such as the Lantern of Infinity, served in handcrafted vessels by local Slovak artists.

Paris also made its mark with The Cambridge, a cultural hub located in the historic Marais district. Founded in 2019 by three friends inspired by the traditional British pub, the venue combines Parisian cocktails with a selection of classic bar snacks. “Half-traditional pub, half-cocktail bar: The Cambridge is a one-of-a-kind drinks outpost,” explained a critic. The team’s ability to balance the gravity of Guinness with the lightness of cocktails has solidified its place in the rankings, offering a rare blend of formality and fun.

In Milan, a visually arresting venue stood out for its industrial minimalism and raw brutalism. This space features three distinct areas: a casual tapa bistrot, an exclusive fine dining counter restaurant, and a bar with one of Europe’s best drinks programs. The bar’s signature cocktail, the Pesto Martini, pays homage to the city’s culinary heritage while reimagining the classic drink for a modern audience. Despite its name, the cocktail relies on vintage vermouths and liqueurs, rather than contemporary spirits, creating a nostalgic yet innovative experience.

Iconic Bars and Their Legacies

Sips, a Barcelona-based bar, had previously claimed the number one spot on the World’s Top 50 Bars list. Now, it has returned to prominence as one of Europe’s very best. “When two of the industry’s most creative minds come together, expect the spectacular,” remarked a judge. Simone Caporale and Marc Alvarez, the bar’s founders, created a space where serious cocktails are served in unserious forms. The Primordial, a signature drink, combines 12-year-old Scotch, Ruby Port, and peranashi, presented in a metal cast of two hands for a striking visual impact.

Meanwhile, Himkok in Oslo, a Top 10 regular, is a moody delight that embodies the concept of “homecooked” in its approach. “Translated as ‘homecooked,’ Himkok is a masterclass in building the ultimate cocktail experience from scratch,” said one evaluator. The bar’s setup includes gin and vodka taps cascading over its entrance, alongside house-frozen ice and barrels of aquavit maturing on-site. This hands-on, artisanal approach has earned it a dedicated following among connoisseurs and casual visitors alike.

The list also features bars that represent the evolving tastes of Europe’s cocktail scene. For example, Bar Nouveau in Paris has become a favorite for its vintage-focused offerings. “Despite its name, you won’t find a single modern bottle of booze on the shelves at this relatively new, dual-floored Paris bar,” stated a panelist. Instead, the bar showcases a curated selection of vintage vermouths and liqueurs, creating a nostalgic ambiance that appeals to both history buffs and discerning palates.

With the inclusion of Greece in the Top 3, the European list underscores the continent’s growing influence in the global bar scene. These venues not only elevate the craft of mixology but also reflect the cultural richness and innovation that define modern European hospitality. As the 50 Best Bars in Europe take their places, they offer a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic landscape of the continent’s drinking culture, proving that the best of the best is still very much rooted in its own traditions.

For those eager to explore, the full Top 50 list is available for review, alongside the top 10 European bars for 2026. Each entry tells a story of creativity, dedication, and the art of blending the old with the new. Whether you’re drawn to the theatricality of a Greek lounge or the historical flair of a Parisian speakeasy, the Europe’s Best Bars list is a testament to the region’s ability to innovate and inspire. As the bar scene continues to evolve, these top-rated venues will undoubtedly remain at the forefront, setting new standards for excellence in every corner of Europe.