Tucked along Bridges Street in Central, Bar Leone has moved well beyond local acclaim. Since opening in 2023, the Roman-inspired cocktail bar has rapidly established itself as one of Hong Kong’s defining nightlife destinations and, more recently, as a global leader in contemporary bartending.
In October 2025, Bar Leone made history by becoming the first bar in Asia to be named No.1 in The World’s 50 Best Bars, with the awards ceremony held in Hong Kong for the first time. The recognition followed another milestone earlier that year, when the venue retained its title as Best Bar in Asia at Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025.
Together, the honours cement Bar Leone’s reputation not simply as a successful opening, but as a venue shaping the international conversation around cocktail culture.
Italian spirit, Hong Kong setting
Founded by Rome-born bartender Lorenzo Antinori and co-founder Justin Shun Wah, Bar Leone draws inspiration from traditional Roman neighbourhood bars, particularly those of Trastevere. The space blends wood-panelled warmth, memorabilia and relaxed conviviality with an approach to hospitality rooted in accessibility rather than exclusivity.
Antinori has described the ethos as “cocktails for the people” — a philosophy reflected in the venue’s no-reservations policy and welcoming atmosphere.
Despite global attention, the intention remains grounded: to create a bar that feels local, social and unpretentious.
Cocktails and snacks that built a following
While drinks are central to its identity, Bar Leone has developed a reputation for the details that surround them.
Its low-intervention cocktail programme prioritises craftsmanship, seasonality and ingredient quality over theatrics. Classic serves are revisited with subtle twists, such as martinis elevated by smoked olive brine or refreshed takes on familiar aperitivo-style drinks.
Equally talked about are the snacks.
Smoked olives and focaccia layered with mortadella have become signature orders, reinforcing the venue’s Italian roots and contributing to the communal, neighbourhood feel that defines the experience.
Recognition on the global stage
The bar’s rise has been unusually swift. Since debuting, it has collected a series of industry accolades including:
- The World’s Best Bar — The World’s 50 Best Bars 2025
- Best Bar in Asia — Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025
- Best New Bar in Asia — Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2024
Founder Lorenzo Antinori has also been recognised among the world’s most influential bar personalities, reflecting the influence of Bar Leone beyond Hong Kong itself.
A neighbourhood bar at heart
Despite international expansion plans and growing recognition, the guiding philosophy remains consistent.
Antinori has repeatedly emphasised that Bar Leone was conceived as a neighbourhood bar first and foremost — a space defined by hospitality and connection rather than prestige.
That balance between global acclaim and local sensibility is arguably what continues to resonate with guests, and what positions the venue as a defining part of Hong Kong’s contemporary bar landscape.
Bar Leone
G/F, 11–15 Bridges Street, Central, Hong Kong
