Felice Capasso of Norway has been crowned World’s Best Bartender 2025 at the Diageo World Class Global Finals in Toronto, the 16th edition of one of the cocktail world’s most prestigious competitions.
This year’s finals gathered bartenders from 51 countries across six continents, each vying for the industry’s most coveted title. Representing Nedre Løkka Cocktailbar in Oslo and as founder of the Sesto Senso Academy, Capasso impressed judges with an array of imaginative serves that balanced storytelling, technical mastery, and global inspiration.
A Defining Career Moment
Winning the title marks a pivotal moment in Capasso’s career. Along with the trophy, he will embark on a year-long global journey that includes guest shifts at leading bars, mentorship opportunities, and appearances across Diageo markets. His role will also involve educating and inspiring other bartenders worldwide.
“Winning World Class is not just a dream come true. It is a goal I have worked tirelessly to achieve. It’s living proof that if you want something and you work for it, and you never, ever give up, no matter what – you can achieve it. By winning I know that I am taking on a responsibility which I plan to take seriously, promoting education in spirits and inspiring other bartenders who want to progress in the industry,” Capasso said.
Innovative Challenges
Capasso’s creativity shone during the competition’s themed challenges:
Johnnie Walker Black Label: He reinvented gin-based classics with a whisky twist, including a serve called Top Notes, inspired by the French 75.
Don Julio 1942: Inspired by an original AI artwork, Capasso created an aperitif capturing tequila’s roots and modern artistry.
The Singleton: In a multisensory cocktail experience, he paired his drink Between Us with a custom-designed record sleeve inspired by the classic song That’s Amore, evoking the warmth of Napoli street life.
Judged by Industry Icons
Competitors were evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges including Eric Van Beek of Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy, Monica Berg of London’s Tayēr + Elementary, and Ago Perrone, Director of Mixology at London’s Connaught Bar.
“World Class is such a special occasion, bringing together some of the world’s most creative and driven bartenders. Its impact on the industry is tangible, not only in driving innovation but also in inspiring and nurturing generations of rising talent. Year on year, the competition gets tougher, as a testament to the progress of our cocktail industry. Congratulations to Felice for such an outstanding performance and all the best for the new career journey ahead!” said Perrone.
A Global Celebration of Bartending
“World Class is the ultimate toast to the people who are the beating heart of the hospitality industry. The best bartenders create cocktails at the highest level of craft whilst having their finger on the pulse of the trends of today, tomorrow and the future. We have celebrated and nurtured the careers of over 450,000 bartenders through the World Class program and tonight is the pinnacle moment of celebration for this incredibly special community. We welcome Felice into the Diageo family and congratulate the outstanding efforts of all our brilliant participants,” said Kevin Delaney, Global Head of World Class.
