The Bars and Bartenders That Took Home Top Honors at the 2025 Spirited Awards

Photo Credit: Eric Medsker

Each year, the global bar and spirits community converges in New Orleans for what’s become one of the industry’s most anticipated honors: the Spirited Awards, presented by Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF). This year, the awards returned for their 19th edition—celebrating the visionaries, game-changers, and standouts across every corner of cocktail culture. From the most innovative bartenders and hospitality teams to breakout new bars and must-read spirits writing, the 2025 honorees reflect a world in motion.

The Spirited Awards span a wide spectrum—recognizing excellence across U.S. and international categories, writing and media, and global distinctions like the Helen David Lifetime Achievement Award and World’s Best Bar. Winners are chosen by a panel of more than 250 hospitality professionals, with final selections led by Spirited Awards Chairs Tiffanie Barriere and Ryan Chetiyawardana.

“This year’s winners embody what it means to evolve—creatively, culturally, and personally,” said Charlotte Voisey, Executive Director of TOTCF. “They’re setting the tone for where our industry is headed. It’s a thrill to honor their work.”

In step with this year’s Tales of the Cocktail theme, Evolve, the 2025 winners are a masterclass in progress—shaping what’s next, one pour at a time.

2025 Spirited Awards Highlights

Photo Credit: Caitlyn Ridenour/Tales of the Cocktail

International Standouts:

International Bartender of the Year: Lorenzo Antinori, Bar Leone (Hong Kong)

Best International Cocktail Bar: Bar Leone (Hong Kong)

Best International Hotel Bar: Side Hustle, NoMad London

Best New International Cocktail Bar: Devil’s Cut (Madrid)

Best International Bar Team: Panda & Sons (Edinburgh)

U.S. Accolades:

U.S. Bartender of the Year: Christine Kim, Service Bar (Washington, D.C.)

Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar: Sip & Guzzle (New York City)

Best U.S. Cocktail Bar: Trick Dog (San Francisco)

Best U.S. Bar Team: Allegory, Eaton Hotel (Washington, D.C.)

Best U.S. Restaurant Bar: Kumiko (Chicago)

Best U.S. Hotel Bar: Little Rituals (Phoenix)

Global Category Winners:

World’s Best Bar: Kumiko (Chicago)

World’s Best Cocktail Menu: Panda & Sons (Edinburgh)

Best New Spirit or Cocktail Ingredient: Planteray Cut & Dry Coconut Rum

World’s Best Spirits Selection: Eleven Madison Park (New York)

Writing & Media:

Best Cocktail & Spirits Publication: Full Pour

Best Writing: “In War-Torn Ukraine, Nightlife Offers a Fleeting Escape” by Adam Robb for Wine Enthusiast

Best Broadcast/Podcast: Radio Imbibe

Best New Book on Drinks Culture: The Cocktail Parlor by Nicola Nice

Best Bartending Book: The Bartender’s Pantry by Jim Meehan & Bart Sasso

Legacy & Visionary Awards:

Helen David Lifetime Achievement Award: Ian Burrell

Tales Visionary Award: Lynnette Marrero

Timeless Awards: The Bar at Keens Steakhouse (NYC); Bar Cock (Madrid)

Photo Credit: Caitlyn Ridenour/Tales of the Cocktail