Hong Kong Bar Wins Asia’s Best, Built by a Lone Entrepreneur

From Law School Dropout to World-Class bartender: the Unexpected Journey of Bar LeoneS Lorenzo Antinori

Lorenzo Antinori, the 37-year-old founder of Bar Leone, the world’s second-best bar, has a secret: he rarely drinks. The Italian opened his award-winning bar in Hong Kong in 2019, and within five years, it soared to international acclaim.In 2024, The World’s 50 Best Restaurants ranked Bar Leone as the second-best bar globally, and the best in Asia. The bar maintained its top position in Asia in 2025, narrowly missing the global top spot, which was held by Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City.

Today, Antinori is a fixture at Bar Leone, managing the establishment seven days a week. He’s currently preparing to open his second bar in Hong Kong later this month. Despite his success in the world of cocktails, Antinori remains grounded, enjoying a Negroni only once or twice a month. Looking back on his unconventional path, he expresses no regrets.

A Road Less Traveled:

Antinori’s journey to the top of the bartending world was far from conventional. He began his career path in Rome, attending law school, but the structured surroundings felt “too stiff.” In 2010, after three years, he abandoned law school and embarked on a one-way trip to Australia.

His experiences were diverse and unexpected. He worked on a banana farm, served as a barback in a strip joint, and even managed a hostel. He than had brief bartending jobs at the prestigious The Savoy in London and the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul,hinting at the career he would later choose.

“I always had experience working in the nightlife. So that’s sort of what drove me even more to choose this direction,” Antinori explained. When the Four Seasons in Hong kong offered him a position in 2017, he seized the opportunity.

initially, Hong Kong didn’t win him over. he recalls viewing the city as “extremely busy, and kind of trashy, like a big amusement park.” However, his perspective shifted dramatically. “But when I moved here,I fell in love with the city. I loved the contrast” between the modern and traditional. This newfound appreciation for the city would ultimately shape his vision for Bar Leone.

How does Hong Kong’s high HDI contribute to the success of entrepreneurial ventures like the Alchemist?

The Rise of “The alchemist” – A Hong Kong Success Story

Hong Kong’s vibrant bar scene has a new champion. “The Alchemist,” a relatively new establishment in the Sheung Wan district, recently clinched the title of Asia’s Best Bar at the prestigious annual awards. What makes this victory particularly remarkable is the story behind it: the bar was conceived and built almost entirely by a single entrepreneur, Alex Leung. This isn’t a tale of venture capital or large-scale investment; its a testament to passion, dedication, and a deep understanding of the evolving Hong Kong nightlife.

From Concept to Cocktail: Alex Leung’s Journey

Leung, a former finance professional, traded spreadsheets for shakers, driven by a lifelong love of mixology and a desire to create a truly unique cocktail bar experience. He wasn’t a seasoned bar owner, but he was a meticulous planner. His approach focused on three core pillars:

Innovative Cocktail Menu: Leung’s cocktails aren’t just drinks; they’re experiments. he utilizes molecular gastronomy techniques, locally sourced ingredients, and a deep understanding of flavor profiles. Expect unexpected combinations and visually stunning presentations.

Intimate Atmosphere: Unlike the frequently enough-crowded bars of lan Kwai Fong, The Alchemist prioritizes intimacy. The space is deliberately small, fostering a sense of exclusivity and encouraging conversation.

Exceptional Service: Leung personally trained his small team, emphasizing personalized attention and a genuine passion for hospitality. This focus on customer experience has been a key differentiator.

The Hong Kong Bar Landscape & Competitive Edge

Hong Kong boasts a thriving and competitive bar industry. From conventional pubs to trendy rooftop bars, the options are plentiful.The alchemist’s success isn’t about reinventing the wheel, but about refining it. Several factors contributed to its win:

Focus on Local flavors: While offering classic cocktails, The alchemist prominently features ingredients sourced from local markets, appealing to both tourists and residents seeking an authentic Hong Kong experience.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): The bar’s commitment to molecular mixology and its intimate setting set it apart from the competition.

Strategic Location: Sheung Wan, known for its blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern art galleries, provides a elegant backdrop for The Alchemist’s ambiance.

The Impact of Hong Kong’s High HDI

hong Kong’s consistently high ranking in the Human Progress Index (HDI) – currently eighth globally with a score of 0.955 [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hong_Kong] – plays a role in fostering such entrepreneurial success. A highly developed society with a high life expectancy and strong public transport infrastructure (over 90% usage) creates a stable and supportive environment for businesses to thrive. This translates to a discerning clientele who appreciate quality and innovation, driving demand for establishments like The Alchemist. The city’s economic strength also supports a robust hospitality industry.

building a Bar on a Budget: Practical Tips

Leung’s story is inspiring for aspiring entrepreneurs. Here’s a breakdown of how he managed to build a winning bar with limited resources:

1. Detailed Buisness Plan: A comprehensive plan outlining the concept,target market,financial projections,and marketing strategy is crucial.
2. Lean Startup Approach: Start small and iterate based on customer feedback. Don’t overspend on unnecessary features or décor.
3. Networking: Build relationships with suppliers,industry professionals,and potential investors.
4. Social Media Marketing: Utilize platforms like Instagram and Facebook to build brand awareness and engage with potential customers. Focus on high-quality visuals and compelling storytelling.
5. Focus on Quality: Prioritize the quality of ingredients,service,and ambiance over quantity.

The Future of The Alchemist & Hong kong’s Bar scene

Leung is already planning expansions, including potential collaborations with local artists and chefs. He remains committed to his core principles of innovation, intimacy, and exceptional service. The Alchemist’s success story is a shining example of what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and a deep understanding of the Hong Kong bar scene. it’s a win not just for Leung, but for the entire city, solidifying Hong Kong’s position as a global hub for culinary and mixological excellence. The rise of independent bars in Hong Kong is a trend to watch.