Europe’s 50 Best Bars to debut regional awards in Amsterdam this June

The first edition of Europe’s 50 Best Bars will take place in Amsterdam this June, organisers announced this week. The event, hosted at De Kromhouthal, will unveil a new regional ranking that aims to recognise and celebrate the leading bars, bartenders and cocktail destinations across Europe. The ceremony marks a significant expansion for the 50 Best brand, which has previously produced similar lists for Asia, North America and the world at large.

The list will be determined by the votes of over 300 gender-balanced, anonymous experts from across the continent. The voting panel, known as the Europe’s 50 Best Bars Academy, includes bartenders, bar owners, drinks media and experienced cocktail enthusiasts, all selected by 11 Academy Chairs representing different European regions. Votes are cast confidentially, with each member of the panel choosing bars where they have had their best experiences in the 18 months prior to the deadline. Organisers emphasise that neither bars nor sponsors can influence the outcome, and members of the 50 Best organisation do not participate in the ballot.

The awards programme in Amsterdam will begin with the Bartenders’ Feast on the evening prior to the ceremony – an event reserved for those whose bars have made the ranking. The main ceremony on 30^th June will include red-carpet arrivals, a drinks reception and the live countdown of the top 50 bars, culminating in the announcement of The Best Bar in Europe 2026 (sponsored by Perrier). The big day will also be broadcast live via the 50 Best YouTube channel, allowing a global audience to follow the proceedings.

Ahead of the main attraction, two special accolades will be announced: the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award and the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award, recognising individual and venue achievements over the past year. Additional categories to be revealed include the One To Watch, the Roku Industry Icon, the Three Cents Best New Opening, the Ketel One Sustainable Bar, the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu, the SevenRooms Best Bar Design and the Best in Destination awards.

The team commented: “We are delighted to host the first ever awards ceremony for Europe’s 50 Best Bars in Amsterdam – a first in 50 Best history across all our awards. As the city’s drinks culture continues to evolve and inspire, we look forward to celebrating the exceptional European bar community in this dynamic and cosmopolitan destination. Our aim is to encourage drinks enthusiasts everywhere to discover their next favourite bar and to join us in recognising the outstanding venues shaping the industry worldwide.”

Food Desk

Europe’s 50 Best Bars takes place 30^th June 2026 at De Kromhauthal, Gedempt Hamerkanaal 231, 1021 KP Amsterdam, Netherlands. For further information, visit the 50 Best website here.