Top 500 Bars 2025: The World’s most influential Bars Revealed in Florence

On November 10, 2025, the historic Palazzo Borghese in Florence became the stage for the global cocktail community as the Top 500 Bars Gala unveiled its highly anticipated ranking of the world’s most influential bars. This neoclassical jewel, part of Florence’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, offered an elegant setting for an evening dedicated to creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange and following the unforgettable experiences in France at the Crillon and the Ritz, setting the bar even higher was no easy feat!

The ceremony, attended by bartenders, journalists and cocktail connoisseurs, revealed the Top 100 bars from the global ranking. The event was supported by drink partners Altamura, Monkey 47, Paragon, and Three Cents, adding a refined touch to the night.

#1 Bar: Panda & Sons (Edinburgh) claimed the top spot, celebrated for its innovative techniques and hospitality.
Top 10: Paradiso (Barcelona), Bar Leone (Hong Kong), Handshake Speakeasy (Mexico City), Jigger & Pony (Singapore), HIMKOK (Oslo), Tayer + Elementary (London), Alquímico (Cartagena), Moebius (Milan), SIPS (Barcelona).
French Presence: Paris shone with six entries in the Top 100:
The Cambridge Public House – Paris (14th)
Danico – Paris (17th)
Bar Nouveau – Paris (18th)
Harry’s Bar – Paris (60th)
Moonshiner – Paris (81st)
Candelaria – Paris (84th)
Bar De Vie – Paris (93rd)

Side Events

Guests enjoyed an opening aperitivo at W Florence:

and a closing brunch at Cibrèo Ristorante & Cocktail Bar, reinforcing Florence’s reputation as a hub for gastronomy and mixology:

Florence Bar Crawl: Beyond the Gala

The Top 500 Bars Gala was undoubtedly the centerpiece of our trip, but Florence also offered an incredible bar-hopping experience—every stop within easy walking distance, making it a true cocktail lover’s paradise:

Caffè Paszkowski – A historic café in Piazza della Repubblica, blending timeless elegance with live music and classic cocktails like the Negroni:

Giacosa 1815 – The birthplace of the Negroni, but after trying more drinks I have to say it’s really worth a visit:

The Social Hub Rooftop Bar – Trendy, youthful, and boasting panoramic views of the Duomo, perfect for aperitivo at sunset:

Hotel Firenze Number Nine – Orientalist Cocktail Bar – Exotic, East-inspired cocktails in a chic boutique setting and live music:

1564 Lounge Bar (The James) – A Renaissance palace turned mixology haven, known for rare spirits and candlelit sophistication. Loved the décor!

La Ménagère – A concept space combining floral artistry, fine dining, and creative cocktails in a botanical ambiance:

Santa Cocktail Club – Stylish and cosmopolitan, with bold, artistic cocktails on Piazza Santa Maria Novella:

Rasputin – Florence’s secret speakeasy, hidden in Oltrarno, offering candlelit intimacy and avant-garde drinks:

Savoy Hotel – Irene Bar – A chic, contemporary bar in the heart of Florence, combining Italian elegance with creative cocktails and a stylish ambiance perfect for aperitivo or late-night drinks:

Gucci Giardino 25 – A luxurious cocktail bar by Gucci, where fashion meets mixology. Expect avant-garde drinks, impeccable design, and an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a couture dream:

Four Seasons Hotel Firenze – Atrium Bar – A luxurious escape in a historic villa, offering refined cocktails crafted with premium Italian ingredients and impeccable service in a stunning garden setting. A little bit outside the city center but really really really worth a visit!

Locale Firenze – A Top 100 bar blending Renaissance architecture with cutting-edge mixology. Known for theatrical presentations and cocktails that tell a story, Locale is a must for design and flavour enthusiasts. Try the mezcal ‘Remember the main’’cocktail:

And for food lovers, Il Gusto di Xinge delivered an exceptional dim sum lunch, featuring refined dishes like the Dream of Red Chambers dumplings—an elegant fusion of artistry and flavour.

Why Florence?
Italy has a deeply rooted aperitivo culture and a reputation for exceptional hospitality, making it a natural choice for hosting one of the world’s most prestigious cocktail event. The country’s passion for conviviality and craftsmanship aligns perfectly with the spirit of the Top 500 Bars Gala. With local icons like Locale and Gucci Giardino featured in the Top 100, Florence offered not just a venue, but an authentic experience of Italian elegance and mixology artistry.