THE EXPERTS’ CHOICE

Holly Graham, Founder, Tokyo Confidential

The Bellwood (Tokyo)

“A local bar with just a touch of Japanese flair. The bartenders wear smart uniforms and the cocktails are pretty special, but it’s got the feel of a tiny pub you could sit in for hours.

The Pontiac (Hong Kong)

“Brooklyn dive bar feel, wicked soundtrack, great cocktails and a highly inclusive ethos. The kind of place you can roll solo whatever time, whether you want a quiet one or a rowdy night.”

François Monti Cocktail Writer

The Dash (Madrid)

“First of the new wave of Madrid cocktail bars to venture out of the city centre. Understated look, great music and impeccable classics. Neighbourly and homely, as it should be.

Onda Cocktail Room (Lisbon)

“I like the small, quiet room, fell for the short but to the point drinks. I like the history too. Co-owner Peter O'Connor was Master of Whiskey for Diageo, but on a visit to Lisbon he decided to give up his job and open this bar.”

Jim Meehan

Author, Meehan's Bartender Manual

Bryant’s (Milwaukee)

“A blueprint for the perfect bar. Peerless sightlines over dozens of corner seats if you can’t get a seat at the bar, a fish tank and a McIntosh sound system long before listening bars became popular here in the States.

Best Intentions (Chicago)

“Opened by a former co-worker, Chris Marty with his brother Calvin. It's a quintessential Chicago tavern where every detail is meticulously considered. Come for Angostura on draft and stay for the decadent Wondermint Malted.”