Singapore, known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, has consistently proven itself to be a hub for exceptional bars, competing on the global stage with elegance and finesse. The World’s 50 Best Bars list, sponsored by Perrier, is an annual ranking that celebrates the best bars globally, selected by an academy of over 500 experts in the drinks industry. In 2020, this list saw several Singaporean bars making significant strides, showcasing the city-state’s prowess in mixology and hospitality. This article delves into the details of Singapore’s representation in the 2020 World’s 50 Best Bars list, highlighting the achievements, the bars themselves, and what this means for the global bar scene.
Introduction to the World’s 50 Best Bars
The World’s 50 Best Bars is more than just a list; it’s a celebration of the art of bartending, innovation, and the cultural significance of bars in society. Started in 2009, it has grown to become one of the most anticipated and respected awards in the hospitality industry. The ranking is based on the votes of the Academy, comprising More than 500 industry experts from around the world. These experts include renowned bartenders, bar owners, drinks writers, and cocktail aficionados, ensuring a diverse and informed voting process.
Singapore’s Bar Scene
Singapore’s bar scene has evolved significantly over the years, transforming from a rather conservative drinking culture to a vibrant, diverse, and innovative industry. This evolution is largely due to the pioneering efforts of a few key bars and bartenders who dared to challenge the status quo, introducing new concepts, techniques, and ingredients that elevated the art of mixology in the city. Today, Singapore boasts a range of bars, from sophisticated spots in luxury hotels to more laid-back, independent outfits in trendy neighborhoods. The city’s small size and highly competitive market have pushed bars to be incredibly creative and customer-focused, factors that have contributed to their success on the global stage.
Achievements in 2020
In 2020, Singapore saw an impressive number of its bars featured in the World’s 50 Best Bars list. Four bars from Singapore were recognized for their excellence, showcasing the city’s rich and diverse bar culture. These included classics that have been staples on the list for years, as well as newcomers, demonstrating the evolving nature of Singapore’s nightlife.
The Bars Representing Singapore
Let’s take a closer look at the Singaporean bars that made it into the prestigious list in 2020. Each of these bars brings a unique perspective to the table, from their innovative cocktail menus to their impeccable service standards.
- Atlas Bar, known for its extensive gin collection and beautifully designed interior, has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Its inclusion in the list is a testament to its dedication to providing an exceptional drinking experience.
- 28 HongKong Street, a pioneer in Singapore’s craft cocktail scene, has been consistently recognized for its innovative approach to mixology and its contributions to elevating the bar industry in the city.
- Native, with its focus on using regional and foraged ingredients, represents a new wave of bars that are deeply connected to their environment and community.
- Manhattan, located in the Regent Singapore, offers a sophisticated bar experience with its extensive cocktail menu and luxurious surroundings, making it a standout in the city’s upscale bar scene.
Impact on Singapore’s Nightlife and Tourism
The recognition of these bars on the global stage has a significant impact on Singapore’s nightlife and tourism. It enhances the city’s reputation as a destination for culinary and nightlife experiences, attracting visitors who are eager to explore the best of what Singapore has to offer. Additionally, it promotes local talent and innovation, encouraging more bartenders and entrepreneurs to strive for excellence and push the boundaries of what is possible in the industry.
Challenges and Future Directions
Despite the successes, the bar industry in Singapore, like many around the world, faces challenges such as maintaining consistency, dealing with competitive pressures, and adapting to changing consumer preferences. The COVID-19 pandemic also posed unprecedented challenges, forcing bars to rethink their operations, from delivery and takeaway services to implementing strict safety measures. However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation, as seen in the rise of virtual bar experiences and online cocktail masterclasses, which have helped bars stay connected with their customers during difficult times.
Conclusion
Singapore’s strong showing in the 2020 World’s 50 Best Bars list is a reflection of the city’s vibrant bar culture and its ability to innovate and adapt. As the global bar scene continues to evolve, Singapore is well-positioned to remain a key player, thanks to its talented mixologists, diverse range of bars, and a customer base that is always looking for the next great experience. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Singapore’s bars offer something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the art of mixology and the magic of a well-crafted cocktail. With its sights set on the future, Singapore is ready to continue making waves in the world of bars, inspiring new generations of bartenders and bar enthusiasts alike.
What is the World’s 50 Best Bars List and how is it determined?
The World’s 50 Best Bars List is an annual ranking of the best bars globally, as voted by an Academy of over 500 experts in the industry. The list is determined by a voting process where each member of the Academy submits a list of their top seven bars, with the ranking based on their personal experiences and opinions. The votes are then tabulated to produce the list of the top 50 bars, with the ranking of each bar determined by the number of votes it receives.
The voting process for the World’s 50 Best Bars List is designed to be fair and unbiased, with the Academy comprising a diverse group of industry experts from around the world. The experts include bartenders, bar owners, and drinks writers, among others, who have a deep understanding of the bar industry and are well-traveled, allowing them to provide informed opinions on the best bars globally. The list is widely regarded as the most authoritative and prestigious ranking of bars, and is closely followed by the industry and bar enthusiasts alike.
How has Singapore performed in the World’s 50 Best Bars List 2020?
Singapore has performed exceptionally well in the World’s 50 Best Bars List 2020, with a record number of bars from the city-state making it to the list. The top-performing bar from Singapore was Atlas, which ranked 4th on the list, followed by other notable bars such as Native and 28 HongKong Street. The strong showing by Singapore’s bars is a testament to the city-state’s vibrant and sophisticated bar scene, which has gained international recognition in recent years.
The success of Singapore’s bars in the World’s 50 Best Bars List 2020 can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the city-state’s favorable business environment, its highly skilled and innovative bartenders, and its thriving food and beverage scene. Singapore’s bars have also been at the forefront of the industry in terms of creativity and innovation, with many of them offering unique and immersive experiences that set them apart from other bars around the world. As a result, Singapore has established itself as a must-visit destination for bar enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
What are some of the key factors that contribute to a bar’s ranking in the World’s 50 Best Bars List?
There are several key factors that contribute to a bar’s ranking in the World’s 50 Best Bars List, including the quality and creativity of its cocktails, the expertise and hospitality of its staff, and the overall atmosphere and ambiance of the bar. Other factors such as the bar’s innovation, uniqueness, and consistency are also taken into account by the Academy’s voters. The ranking is not solely based on the bar’s technical skills, but also on the overall experience it provides to its customers.
The Academy’s voters also consider factors such as the bar’s contribution to the industry, its influence on the local and global bar scene, and its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. Additionally, the voters’ personal experiences and opinions of the bar, including the quality of the drinks, the service, and the atmosphere, play a significant role in determining the bar’s ranking. The combination of these factors allows the Academy to produce a list that is representative of the best bars globally, and provides a comprehensive and authoritative ranking of the industry’s top performers.
How does the World’s 50 Best Bars List impact the bar industry in Singapore and globally?
The World’s 50 Best Bars List has a significant impact on the bar industry in Singapore and globally, as it provides a platform for bars to gain international recognition and publicity. The list also sets a benchmark for excellence in the industry, with many bars striving to improve their offerings and services in order to be included in the ranking. The list’s influence extends beyond the industry, with many consumers using it as a guide to discover new and exciting bars to visit.
The World’s 50 Best Bars List also has a positive impact on the local economies of cities with bars that are ranked highly, as it attracts tourists and industry professionals who are looking to experience the best of the bar scene. In Singapore, for example, the success of its bars in the World’s 50 Best Bars List 2020 is expected to boost tourism and revenue for the local hospitality industry. The list also provides a platform for bartenders and bar owners to network and share ideas, driving innovation and growth in the industry as a whole.
What are some of the trends and innovations that are shaping the bar industry in Singapore and globally?
Some of the trends and innovations that are shaping the bar industry in Singapore and globally include the use of sustainable and locally sourced ingredients, the increasing popularity of low- and no-alcohol cocktails, and the incorporation of technology and social media into the bar experience. There is also a growing focus on wellness and health in the industry, with many bars offering healthy and nutritious options for customers. Additionally, the rise of experiential and immersive bars is changing the way customers interact with bars and their offerings.
The bar industry is also seeing a shift towards greater diversity and inclusivity, with many bars prioritizing diversity and representation in their hiring practices and marketing efforts. The use of social media and online platforms is also becoming increasingly important for bars, as it allows them to connect with customers, promote their offerings, and build their brand. In Singapore, the bar industry is also being shaped by the city-state’s unique cultural and regulatory environment, with many bars adapting to the local market and finding innovative ways to comply with regulations while still providing a world-class experience for customers.
How can bars in Singapore and globally improve their chances of being ranked in the World’s 50 Best Bars List?
Bars in Singapore and globally can improve their chances of being ranked in the World’s 50 Best Bars List by focusing on providing a unique and exceptional customer experience, investing in staff training and development, and prioritizing creativity and innovation in their offerings. They should also engage with the local and global bar community, participate in industry events, and build relationships with influencers and industry experts. By doing so, bars can increase their visibility and reputation, and demonstrate their commitment to excellence and innovation.
Bars can also improve their chances of being ranked by staying up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations in the industry, and by being adaptable and responsive to changing customer preferences and behaviors. They should also prioritize sustainability, social responsibility, and diversity, and demonstrate a commitment to these values in their operations and practices. By taking a holistic approach to their business and prioritizing excellence in all areas, bars can increase their chances of being recognized as one of the world’s best, and reap the benefits that come with being included in the World’s 50 Best Bars List.
What does the future hold for the bar industry in Singapore and globally, and how will the World’s 50 Best Bars List continue to shape the industry?
The future of the bar industry in Singapore and globally looks bright, with the industry expected to continue growing and evolving in response to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. The World’s 50 Best Bars List will continue to play a major role in shaping the industry, as it provides a benchmark for excellence and a platform for bars to gain international recognition. The list will also continue to drive innovation and growth, as bars strive to improve their offerings and services in order to be included in the ranking.
As the industry continues to evolve, the World’s 50 Best Bars List will also adapt and change, incorporating new trends and innovations, and providing a comprehensive and authoritative ranking of the industry’s top performers. The list will also continue to have a positive impact on the local economies of cities with bars that are ranked highly, and will provide a platform for bartenders and bar owners to network and share ideas, driving growth and innovation in the industry as a whole. With its influence and reputation, the World’s 50 Best Bars List will remain a major driver of the bar industry, shaping its future and providing a benchmark for excellence for years to come.