Award-winning Hong Kong cocktail bar Bar Leone has announced the opening of its second venue in Shanghai, China this autumn. Co-founders Justin Shun Wah and Lorenzo Antinori will bring their acclaimed concept of Cocktail Popolari – “cocktails for the people” – to Huangpu, offering signature serves, aperitivo-style service, and the bar’s renowned Italian-inspired snacks across two floors.
The move marks a bold new chapter for Bar Leone, which has quickly risen to global prominence since opening in Hong Kong’s Central district in 2023. In 2024, it made history as the first bar to debut at No. 1 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars, a title it retained in 2025. The bar also ranked No. 2 on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024, cementing its reputation as a leader in contemporary mixology.
At its core, Bar Leone is rooted in Roman hospitality and Italian charm. Its interiors are lined with vintage football jerseys, retro posters, and lively nods to Italy’s timeless culture. Guided by its ethos of Cocktail Popolari, the bar is celebrated for delivering classics with consistency, simplicity, and speed.
Co-founder Lorenzo Antinori sees Shanghai as the ideal next step:
“The city’s cosmopolitan energy, cutting-edge cocktail culture, and diverse local flavors create the perfect stage for Bar Leone’s mix of innovation and Italian flair.”
With the upcoming Shanghai outpost, Bar Leone continues to expand its influence across Asia, blending global excellence with a distinctly Roman spirit.
