In the realm of new concepts, collaboration with acclaimed architects, designers, and artisans has become the norm. Meticulously crafted design details, custom-tailored uniforms, hand-blown glassware, and bespoke bars distinguish The World’s Best Bars. Here are a few establishments that caught my attention either through personal visits or their intriguing fusion with artistry.
Room by Le Kief, Taipei
This fusion of a modern restaurant and molecular bar centers around a bar island resembling an actor’s stage rather than a traditional bar. Bartenders here are artists, elegantly preparing drinks with fluid movements, creating an artistic experience. Design elements, furniture, and musical styles evolve with each new menu. Head bartender Seven Ji excels in food pairing, the cornerstone of every menu. It’s a place that offers an artistic experience through its bar performances, ever-evolving design, and artistic drink and food presentations.
Sketch, London
Starting with their website, Sketch London offers an artistically curated digital experience. With five distinct rooms, it’s a bar, restaurant, breakfast spot, and 5 o’clock tea destination, each breathtakingly unique in style and design. The interior designers here played with colors, shapes, and materials, making it a treasure trove for design enthusiasts and an inspirational visit for anyone planning a new establishment. It’s a must-visit when in London, providing ample design inspiration.
Insider Bar, Moscow
A futuristic creation emphasizing innovation in bar design, functionality, and sustainability. At the heart of the space lies the bar island crafted by the “bar design” experts, Behind Bars, renowned for their work at Tayēr + Elementary. The artistic and practical design of workstations offers a different experience, fostering closer interactions between bartenders and guests compared to traditional bars. Collaborating with local artists, Insider Bar features illustrated menus, breaking language barriers through pop art sketches.
Carousel Bar & Lounge, New Orleans
Situated in the French Quarter at Hotel Monteleone, this iconic bar has been a jazz culture hub for over seventy years. Known for its live musical performances, it has hosted local bands and global icons like Louis Prima, Liberace, and even writer Ernest Hemingway. The unique circular shape, resembling a carousel, mechanically rotates, providing guests with an immersive experience akin to a carousel ride.
Buha|i|rest Bar, Budapest
A fresh addition to Budapest’s gastronomic landscape, enticing design aficionados. The space, designed by Russian interior architect Roman Plyus, merges modern raw concrete, soft pink walls, and a marble bar, drawing inspiration from renowned sculptor Alexander Calder. Noteworthy are vintage chairs by architect and design revolutionary Pierre Jeanneret, enhancing the venue’s allure. Although pandemic delays might affect its opening, Buha|i|rest Bar is a must-visit among our southern neighbors.
The Connaught, London
A quintessential bar in Mayfair known to bar enthusiasts worldwide. A masterpiece in every aspect, designed by David Collins, the interior amalgamates 1920s Cubism with timeless elegance. The iconic “trolley service” elevates the experience—bartenders, dressed impeccably, craft Martinis in handcrafted artistic glassware, delivering a true theatrical bar experience.
Realm of the 52 Remedies, San Diego
An Asian-inspired speakeasy in California, blending minimalist reception design with detailed Chinese-inspired drawings. The main room, conceptualized by American designer Michael Soriano, replicates Asian bathhouses with aesthetic lighting and Chinese deity illustrations. Its illuminated amber bar board adds visual allure, complemented by lotus-shaped seating symbolizing purity. A visit here offers an aesthetic journey.
Atlas, Singapore
A constant on The World’s 50 Best Bars list since its opening in 2018, housed in the Gotham-esque tower, resonating with 20th-century Art Deco. Designed by local firm Hassell Studio, the bar program curated by Proof & Co. features an eight-meter Gin Tower and impressive high ceilings adorned with gilded and brass details. A must-visit in Singapore, especially to savor one of their 1,500 gins.
