Meanwhile, Singapore's Jigger & Pony clinched the prize for overall best bar in Asia
Asia’s increasingly dynamic bar scene was recognised last night when the 2020 Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards, after consultation with the bar community, proceeded with a virtual ceremony that was live-streamed on their social media channels. The organisers affirmed the importance of providing recognition to the bars and promoting positivity, particularly during the current coronavirus crisis. And, indeed, local imbibers would be pleased to learn that a bar in Singapore has once again regained the number one position on the feted list.
Jigger & Pony dethroned The Old Man Hong Kong (now at No. 2) when it claimed the coveted top spot for the first time since opening its doors in 2012 on Amoy Street. Founded by Indra Kantono and Gan Guoyi, it has since moved to a fancier premise in Tanjong Pagar and continues to serve thoughtful re-imaginations of classic drinks.
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Manhattan, which was No. 2 in the 2019 list, dropped to No. 8 but clinched the inaugural Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award 2020. Joining Jigger & Pony and Manhattan in the top 10 are Singapore’s Atlas at No.5, and Native at No.6. Newcomer The Old Man Singapore debuted at No. 22 and also took home the London Essence Best New Opening Award.
Other Singapore bars that completed the prestigious list were D.Bespoke, which rose two places to No. 23; Gibson at No. 25; and 28 HongKong Street at No. 30. It was good news for Nutmeg & Clove, too, which re-entered the list at No. 32, as well as Mo Bar which debuted at No. 46.
Greater China also won big last night with 12 entrants to the prestigious ranking, including 81⁄2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana, which jumped 10 places to No. 28, and newcomer Caprice Bar at No. 34. Japan's Best Bar is The SG Club, at No. 9, and in Taiwan, the prestigious Best Bar title went to Indulge Experimental Bistro, at No. 4.
Thailand's vibrant bar scene was represented by five of its top bars, with The Bamboo Bar at Mandarin Oriental coming in at No. 7, making it the Best Bar in Thailand.
The Best Bar in Malaysia, Bar Trigona, leapt 26 places to No. 14 and garnered the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award.