Melbourne Bar Tops Australasian Rankings, Secures Global 19th Spot in Prestigious World List

World's 50 Best Bars awards. Discover how Australian bars are making their mark on the global cocktail scene.">
October 10, 2025

Australian Bars Shine at World’s 50 Best Bars Awards

The annual World’s 50 Best Bars list has been revealed, recognizing excellence in the global cocktail community. This year’s event, held in Hong Kong on October 8th, highlighted the growing influence of Australian establishments, with Melbourne’s Caretaker’s cottage earning significant acclaim. This news underscores Australia’s burgeoning reputation as a destination for innovative and high-quality bars.

Caretaker’s Cottage Crowned Australasia’s Best

For the second consecutive year, Caretaker’s Cottage has been named the Best Bar in Australasia, achieving the 19th position globally. The intimate venue, known for its minimalist design and expertly crafted martinis, has quickly become a favorite among both locals and international visitors. Owners Matt Stirling, Ryan Nordics, and Rob Libecans expressed their astonishment at the repeated recognition.

caretaker’s Cottage in Melbourne, celebrated for its remarkable cocktail offerings.

Sydney‘s Maybe Sammy Maintains Global Presence

Sydney’s Maybe Sammy, a four-time winner of the Best Bar in Australasia title from 2019-2022, secured the 42nd spot on the prestigious list.The bar’s owners conveyed their pride in being recognized for seven consecutive years, emphasizing the venue’s continual betterment and its contribution to Sydney’s thriving cocktail culture. Founder Stefano Catino suggested the bar is currently performing at its peak in terms of profitability and overall quality.

Othre Australian bars Recognized

Melbourne’s Byrdi, previously ranked 35th in 2024, placed 91st this year. Additionally, Sydney’s newcomer, Tigra and Disco Pantera, opened in 2024, received the Best Bar Design award for its unique 1970s-inspired aesthetic and commitment to using reclaimed materials. The judges applauded the bar’s thoughtful design, highlighting its use of repurposed elements like timber and vintage lighting.

Here’s a speedy comparison of the Australian bars featured:

Bar Name	City	2025 Global rank	2024 Global Rank
Caretaker’s Cottage	Melbourne	19	21
Maybe Sammy	Sydney	42	22
Byrdi	Melbourne	91	35

Did You Know? The World’s 50 Best Bars list utilizes a voting panel of 800 experts, including bartenders and drinks writers, to ensure a complete and unbiased assessment of the global bar scene.

Pro Tip: When exploring the cocktail scene in Melbourne or Sydney, consider making reservations, particularly at award-winning bars, as they tend to be popular and fill up quickly.

The judging process involves a confidential voting system, with 29 academy chairs across different regions to maintain fairness and depiction within the industry.

The Evolution of Cocktail Culture in Australia

Australia has experienced a significant surge in cocktail culture over the past decade. What was once a market dominated by basic spirits and mixers has evolved into a sophisticated landscape of craft cocktails, innovative techniques, and a focus on high-quality ingredients. This growth reflects a broader trend towards experiential dining and drinking, where consumers seek out unique and memorable experiences. The success of bars like Caretaker’s Cottage and Maybe Sammy demonstrates the country’s increasing prominence on the global stage. Self-reliant bars and speakeasies are growing in popularity, as people crave authenticity and personalization.

Frequently Asked Questions about the World’s 50 Best Bars

• What are the criteria for judging the World’s 50 best Bars? The judging criteria encompass the quality of drinks, atmosphere, service, and overall experiance.
• How does the World’s 50 best Bars list impact a bar’s buisness? Inclusion on the list can significantly boost a bar’s visibility,attracting a larger clientele and increasing revenue.
• What is the significance of the Best Bar in Australasia award? This award recognizes the leading bar within the Australasian region, showcasing the best of the local cocktail scene.
• Are there any trends shaping the future of bars? Sustainability, low-alcohol options, and personalized experiences are major trends shaping the future of the bar industry.
• How importent is bar design to the overall experience? Bar design is crucial, as it contributes significantly to the atmosphere and overall customer experience.

What do you think about the rising success of Australian bars? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow cocktail enthusiasts!

What criteria are used by the World’s 50 Best Bars academy to evaluate bars beyond just the quality of drinks?

Melbourne’s thriving bar scene has once again cemented its position as a global leader, achieving a remarkable 19th place in the latest edition of the World’s 50 Best Bars list. This prestigious ranking not only tops the Australasian charts but also highlights Melbourne’s growing reputation as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts and nightlife aficionados. The proclamation, made on October 7th, 2025, is a significant win for the city’s hospitality industry and a testament to the innovation and dedication of its bartenders.

Understanding the World’s 50 Best Bars Ranking

The World’s 50 Best Bars list is an annual ranking compiled by a global academy of over 650 experts, including renowned bartenders, writers, and cocktail connoisseurs. the judging process is rigorous, evaluating bars based on the quality of their drinks, the overall atmosphere, service standards, and innovation within the cocktail industry. A high ranking signifies not just excellent cocktails, but a holistic and memorable bar experience. This year’s list reflects a growing trend towards immersive and experiential drinking, with bars pushing boundaries in both technique and presentation.

Melbourne’s Winning Bar: A Deep Dive

While the specific bar claiming the 19th spot remains undisclosed at the time of writing (October 10th, 2025), industry speculation points towards a strong contender within Melbourne’s laneway bar scene. Several establishments have consistently featured in extended lists and garnered critical acclaim in recent years.

Here are some Melbourne bars frequently mentioned as potential candidates:

* Attaboy: Known for its bespoke cocktail experience and lack of a menu, relying on bartender-guest interaction.

* Maybe Sammy: A glamorous, 1950s-inspired cocktail bar offering a elegant atmosphere.

* Pearl Diver: A hidden gem specializing in tiki cocktails and a vibrant,playful ambiance.

* Section 8: A laneway staple offering a relaxed vibe and innovative drinks.

The winning bar’s success is highly likely attributed to a combination of factors, including:

* Extraordinary Cocktail Craftsmanship: Utilizing high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques.

* Unique Atmosphere & Design: Creating a memorable and immersive experience.

* Outstanding Service: Providing attentive and educated service.

* Commitment to Sustainability: Increasingly critically important to discerning drinkers.

Australasian Performance: A Regional Overview

Melbourne’s success isn’t an isolated incident.The Australasian region as a whole is experiencing a surge in recognition within the global bar scene.

Here’s a snapshot of the regional performance:

1. Melbourne (Australia) – 19th
2. Sydney (Australia) – 28th
3. Auckland (New Zealand) – 42nd

This demonstrates a growing sophistication in cocktail culture across Australia and New Zealand, with both countries attracting international attention for their innovative bar concepts and talented bartenders. The rise of locally sourced ingredients and a focus on unique Australian flavors are key drivers of this success.

The Economic Impact of a World-Class Bar Scene

A thriving bar scene isn’t just about great drinks; it’s a significant economic driver for Melbourne.

Consider these benefits:

* Tourism Boost: Attracts international and domestic tourists seeking unique experiences.

* Job Creation: Supports employment in hospitality, agriculture (ingredient sourcing), and related industries.

* Increased Revenue: Generates revenue for local businesses and the government through taxes.

* Enhanced City Image: Contributes to Melbourne’s reputation as a vibrant and culturally rich destination, as highlighted by Visit Australia.

Trends Shaping Melbourne’s Bar Landscape

Several key trends are currently influencing the evolution of Melbourne’s bar scene:

* Low & No-Alcohol Options: A growing demand for sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails.

* Lasting Practices: Bars are increasingly focused on reducing waste and sourcing ingredients responsibly.

* Experiential Drinking: Immersive experiences, cocktail classes, and themed nights are gaining popularity.

* Focus on Local Ingredients: Utilizing Australian native botanicals and supporting local producers.

* Hidden Bars & Speakeasies: The allure of discovering hidden gems continues to draw crowds.

Practical Tips for Exploring Melbourne’s Bar Scene

Planning a visit to Melbourne to experience its award-winning bars? Here are a few tips:

* Book in Advance: Popular bars frequently enough require reservations, especially on weekends.

* Explore Laneways: Melbourne’s laneways are home to many hidden gems.

* Try Local Spirits: Sample Australian gin, whisky, and other locally produced spirits.

* Engage with Bartenders: Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or learn about the cocktail-making process.

* Consider a Bar Tour: Guided tours can provide insights into the city’s bar history and culture.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Melbourne’s Bars

Melbourne’s 19th-place ranking is a significant achievement, but the city’s bar scene is constantly evolving. With a continued focus on innovation, sustainability, and exceptional customer experiences, Melbourne is poised to climb even higher in future World’s 50 Best