Europe’s 50 Best Bars awards to launch in 2026, spotlighting top venues across the continent

The organisation behind The World’s 50 Best Bars, 50 Best has announced it will launch a new regional awards programme and ranking – Europe’s 50 Best Bars – in 2026. The initiative aims to recognise leading establishments across the continent and will culminate in a live ceremony next year, with the date and location to be confirmed in the coming months.

This marks the first time 50 Best has introduced a new bars ranking since the launch of North America’s 50 Best Bars in 2022. The European edition will join the existing portfolio of regional and global rankings, which includes an Asian list and a world list. Like them, this new one is intended to highlight both well-established and emerging venues, offering what organisers describe as a “trusted, expert-curated guide” to bar culture – this time on the continent.

Emma Sleight, head of content for Europe’s 50 Best Bars, said: “We couldn’t be more excited to launch our new bar awards programme in Europe. Following the growing success of our regional lists in Asia and North America, we’re confident this new addition will become a vital part of the regional bar landscape, shining a light on both established and, excitingly, emerging destinations across the continent. The result will be a list of the most memorable bars experiences from the region, celebrating its passion, talent and hard work and providing a credible and trustworthy guide for discerning drinkers.”

The event will include several days of events, including the Bartenders’ Feast, held the night before the ceremony. The main event will feature red-carpet arrivals, a drinks reception and a live countdown of the top 50 bars. Special accolades will also be presented to individuals and venues, including the title of The Best Bar in Europe, sponsored by Perrier.

The selection will be determined by the votes of 300 anonymous European bar industry professionals, including bartenders, bar owners, drinks media and experienced cocktail enthusiasts. The voting process is independently managed, and neither the 50 Best organisation nor its sponsors can influence the outcome. Voters are asked to select bars where they have had their most memorable experiences in the 18 months prior to the voting deadline. The live ceremony will also be streamed globally via the 50 Best YouTube channel.

Food Desk

For further information about Europe’s 50 Best Bars, visit the organisation’s website here.