Mirror Hospitality Expo returned to Bratislava this May, turning Slovakia’s capital into one of the most exciting destinations in the global bar scene. What happens when 32 of the world’s best bars land in one city? You pay attention — and this year’s edition made it clear: Central Europe is stepping up.
Held from May 4 to 7, the expo brought top-tier bars, legendary bartenders, and cocktail enthusiasts together for a four-day celebration of creativity, community, and craft. With guest shifts at Mirror Bar, Sky Bar & Restaurant, and Old Fashioned Bar, the city became a living showcase of what hospitality looks like at its best.
Among the guest bars were world-renowned names like Maybe Sammy (Sydney), Little Red Door (Paris), BarChef (Toronto), Wax On (Berlin), and Tjoget (Stockholm) — each offering signature serves and sharing their distinct bar philosophies.
At its core, the event honored the values that drive the industry forward: The Art of Hospitality, The Joy of Sharing, The Love for Cocktails, and The Support for Community.
What Went Down
2,500+ cocktails crafted and served by guest bartenders
32 bars from 26 cities, taking over three iconic venues
74 international guests, from industry veterans to rising stars
19 packed seminars and masterclasses, exploring carbonated cocktails, signature serves, and more
Mirror Junior Bartender Challenge, spotlighting next-gen talent with speed rounds, blind tastings, and creative battles
Whether it was a session on the Future of Flavor or a perfectly executed Negroni, the common thread was clear: the region is stepping up — and the world is noticing.
Mirror Bar: The Soul of the Show
No surprise that Mirror Bar, currently ranked #62 in The World’s 50 Best Bars, was at the heart of the action. More than just a venue, it’s a showcase of what hospitality looks like when purpose and passion meet. Here, cocktails are expressions of story, culture, and care — and the Expo is its natural extension.
The Team Behind It
The event is led by Stan Harciník, Peter Marcina, and Adrián Chrzan, whose vision has turned Mirror Hospitality Expo into the go-to bar show for Central Europe. What started as a local idea is now an international movement — and the 2025 edition made it clear that this is only the beginning.
