The 50 Best Bars 2026: 18 spots in Europe make extended list

The 50 Best Bars has just unveiled its extended 51-100 list for 2026, and Europe is the most represented region with 18 watering holes making the cut.

Of those 18, four are in Italy, with three bars apiece in Spain and the UK, and two each in Sweden and Greece. Norway, Türkiye, France and Ireland all have one each.

The list is based on votes from the 800-strong academy, which is made up of one third bartenders and bar owners, one third drinks writers, and one third global cocktail experts.

Each voter nominates eight bars – five in their region, and three internationally. They must have visited the bar in question within the last 18 months.

“The 51-100 list has become a vital part of The 50 Best Bars programme, allowing us to recognise an even broader range of exceptional venues from around the world while encouraging cocktail lovers to discover new destinations and experiences,” Faye Huggett, director of community for The 50 Best Bars, said.

“It celebrates the diversity, innovation and energy that define today’s global bar scene, shining a spotlight on establishments that consistently deliver outstanding drinks and world-class hospitality.

“From renowned industry favourites to rising stars pushing the boundaries of cocktail culture, the bars featured in this year’s ranking reflect the talent, passion and dedication that continue to elevate our industry.”

The 50 Best Bars full ranking for 2026 will be revealed in Milan, Italy, on 7 October.

New entries on the extended list

Of those included in Europe, many featured on the 51-100 list last year, or are a re-entry from previously.

There are three new spots that made the cut: Bar Gabriel in Istanbul (68th), Naked in Athens (76th), and Bar 1661 in Dublin (98th).

Marking Türkiye’s debut on the list, Bar Gabriel opened just a year ago. House cocktails you need to try include the kunefe, with kunefe sherbet and pistachio vodka; the oud, with angostura bitters and rye whisky; and the nazar, with oregano, fennel and absinthe.

Bar 1661 also marks Ireland’s first time on the list. Named Ireland’s bar of the year, you can book in for tasting experiences with mini serves that take you through the menu, which changes periodically but always heavily promotes Irish whiskey.

At Naked in Athens, the menu focuses on raw (aka naked) ingredients. The drinks we most want to try include the spicy mango paloma, the Nkd-aiquiri banana, and the carob old fashioned.