The secret hidden cocktail bar in Scotland that's been named one of the best in the world

The annual list of The World’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, has been unveiled as part of a live awards ceremony in Madrid, Spain and only one Scottish bar has made the list.

Now in its 16th edition, the awards once again united the global bar community in recognition of the bartenders, bar owners and brands at the forefront of the international cocktail scene.

The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 features venues from 28 cities, with Mexico City’s Handshake Speakeasy crowned The Best Bar in North America and The World’s Best Bar. This is the first time a bar from Mexico has claimed the number one spot in the list.

Tucked away in the Colonia Juárez neighbourhood of Mexico City, Handshake Speakeasy is one of the capital’s best-kept open secrets. 

Hidden behind a secret door in a dimly lit room stocked with an impressive array of vintage spirits, the bar’s interiors masterfully evoke the bygone age of the Hollywood speakeasy.

Closer to home, another hidden secret speakeasy style bar has been named on the prestigious list.

Panda & Sons in Edinburgh has risen nine places to number 30 as founder Iain McPherson was awarded the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award.

London retains its crown as the cocktail capital of Europe with four bars out of 19 for the continent, including number four Tayēr + Elementary with co-founder Monica Berg also being named the Roku Industry Icon. 

At number 13 is Connaught Bar joined by Satan’s Whiskers at number 29 and Scarfes Bar at number 37.

The Best Bar in Europe title once again goes to Barcelona’s Sips at number three, with Paradiso (Barcelona) at number 10 and host city Madrid’s Salmon Guru at number.23. 

In Italy, Rome’s Drink Kong (number 33) and Florence’s Locale Firenze (number 36) are joined by new entries Moebius Milano (number 38) and 1930 (number 50), both in Milan.

Emma Sleight, head of content for The World’s 50 Best Bars, said of this year’s list: “It is with immense pride that we announce Handshake Speakeasy as The World’s Best Bar 2024, sponsored by Perrier. 

“To be the first ever No.1 from Mexico is an outstanding achievement, of which Eric van Beek and his team are hugely deserving. 

“The bar’s impressive rise through the list of The World’s 50 Best Bars over the years is a testament to their unique combination of flawless hospitality, innovative technique and truly excellent cocktails. 

“We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every bar on this year’s list, which once again highlights the incredible diversity of the global bar sector. 

“We hope that this year’s list continues to operate as a beacon for cocktail lovers the world over.”

Full list of the Top 50 bars in the world 2024