SINGAPORE — Asia’s bar industry gave recognition to the top watering holes in the region even as business reeled from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, with Singapore’s Jigger & Pony clinching top spot.
The fifth edition of the annual Asia’s 50 Best Bars ranking was announced yesterday in a virtual countdown which was streamed online. The ceremony was originally planned to take place in Singapore at Capitol Theatre, but lockdown prohibitions against large gatherings made organisers change plans. The 2020 ranking spanned bars from Asian countries including China, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines. See the full list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars below.
Jigger & Pony at Amara Hotel was named the Best Bar in Asia and the Best Bar in Singapore, after being ranked at No. 9 last year. The bar specialises in thoughtful reimaginations of classic drinks. Innovative cocktails such as Mango Hazelnut Daiquiri and Mineral Vodka Soda feature alongside signatures such as its Ramos Gin Fizz.
Mark Sansom, content editor of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, said, “Today’s announcement was less of a celebration, and rather a form of recognition and an expression of solidarity across the bar-loving world. The coming months may indeed be some of the toughest we’ve experienced, both personally and professionally, as we prepare for an unknown future. But today, we stand with Asia. Stay healthy, stay safe, stay strong, and together, we will overcome this.