The Best Hotel Bars Around the World

The late, great Anthony Bourdain once famously advised, "Don’t drink at your hotel. Find out where the people who work at your hotel do their drinking." While Bourdain’s culinary and cultural insights were often profound, this particular piece of wisdom might have stemmed from hotels where the bars, regrettably, missed the mark. In reality, a well-executed hotel bar can be one of the most enriching and memorable drinking experiences available. These establishments are not merely watering holes; they are custodians of cocktail history and vibrant hubs of hospitality.

From the legendary American Bar at The Savoy in London, a haunt of icons like Marilyn Monroe and Neil Armstrong, to Raffles Singapore, the birthplace of the iconic Singapore Sling, hotel bars have played an indelible role in shaping the cocktail industry’s rich narrative. However, what elevates a hotel bar from merely good to truly exceptional transcends its famous patrons and signature drinks. These bars face the unenviable yet crucial task of catering to a diverse clientele. They are tasked with introducing wide-eyed tourists to the unique flavors and warm embrace of a new city, offering locals something refreshingly unexpected or a reliable favorite, and providing a sanctuary for the solitary business traveler, the loyal regular, the weary family, and the discreet VIP.

The true essence of a superior hotel bar lies in its ability to simultaneously ground patrons geographically while embarking them on a sensory journey. It should artfully showcase indigenous ingredients, making guests feel both at home and adventurous. It must offer anonymity to those who seek it, while also making them feel profoundly seen and appreciated. This is a delicate, choreographed performance, a true masterclass that can only achieve a perfect score through relentless practice and dedication from the bar team.

Over the past year, I’ve had the distinct pleasure of witnessing this intricate dance unfold across various global destinations. From my home city of London and a short Eurostar journey to Paris, to a three-day immersion in Bali, a pilgrimage to Singapore, and a riotous exploration of Mexico, the experiences have underscored the enduring allure of truly exceptional hotel bars.

American Bar, Gleneagles, Scotland

My travels have led me to some of the world’s most opulent hotels, yet a return to the timeless elegance of Gleneagles always feels like coming home. The soaring ceilings, the rich, dark oak paneling, and the sumptuously comfortable mohair furnishings of this "Glorious Playground" have rarely seemed more inviting. For me, Gleneagles holds a particularly poignant place in my heart, having been the backdrop for my parents’ wedding over three decades ago. During my numerous visits, I’ve honed my clay pigeon shooting skills, bonded with the resident Highland cows, and even held a majestic bird of prey at arm’s length. However, no stay is truly complete without the ritual of slipping through the plush velvet curtains of its American Bar. This bar is a masterful homage to the glamorous 1920s, the era of the hotel’s inception. There’s an undeniable pleasure in dressing up and sinking into one of its plush sofas, whether to savor a perfectly executed classic cocktail, a beautifully presented signature creation, or, naturally, a dram from its extensive yet thoughtfully curated whisky collection. I’ve raised many a glass of all three, toasting my own lineage within these hallowed walls.

Kioku Sake Bar, Raffles at The OWO, London

One might not immediately associate London’s historic Whitehall district with uninhibited revelry, but recent years have witnessed a welcome transformation, notably with the highly anticipated opening of Raffles at The OWO. This landmark development also ushered in Kioku, a compact yet, in my estimation, flawlessly designed listening bar. Remarkably, it also boasts Europe’s most extensive collection of sake. While numerous intimate nooks invite quiet contemplation of its impressive 140-bottle selection, my preferred method of enjoyment, often solo, is a meticulously crafted cocktail at the curved bar, serenaded by a rotating roster of vinyl. Served in exquisite, carefully sourced glassware, these libations feature house-made ingredients such as shiso leaf absinthe, wasabi distillate, and a delicate gingo sake vermouth, artfully blended with both familiar and exotic Japanese flavors in a variety of cocktail formats. Complementing the drinks, the accompanying snacks, sourced from the renowned restaurant upstairs, are an absolute must.

CopperBay Lancaster, Hotel Lancaster, Paris

For those seeking an evening steeped in cinematic history, the Hotel Lancaster offers an unparalleled experience. This elegant establishment was once home to the legendary film star Marlene Dietrich for three years. Situated a stone’s throw from the iconic Champs-Élysées, the Hotel Lancaster, which recently marked its centenary, is also home to CopperBay Lancaster. The cocktail menu here is a thoughtful tribute to the hotel’s most distinguished past guests, while simultaneously celebrating the finest French ingredients, from Cognac and Armagnac to pastis, and even the bar’s own signature gin. It is also worth noting that I encountered one of the most exceptional non-alcoholic cocktails I have ever tasted here: the "Monsieur," a sophisticated blend of bitters, Crodino, thyme water, and black balsamic vinegar. Any establishment that proudly stocks magnums of green Chartreuse is guaranteed to hold a special place in my affections.

Sora, Rosewood Phnom Penh, Cambodia

When it comes to breathtaking bar vistas, few can rival the panoramic spectacle offered by Sora at Rosewood Phnom Penh. Perched on the 37th floor, this Phnom Penh landmark commands an awe-inspiring view of the city skyline. Inside, the sophisticated lighting transforms the expansive main room into a space that is both dark and airy, while the spacious outdoor deck provides an ideal vantage point for those without a fear of heights to soak in the vistas of the Mekong River and beyond. As always, my inclination is to settle in at the bar itself (or, if accompanied, at the outward-facing armchairs that frame the magnificent views) and engage in conversation with the young and passionate bar team. This is especially rewarding when delving into the local spirits and ingredients that are ingeniously incorporated into their cocktails. Their current menu, "Alchemy of Anime," masterfully fuses Japanese and Cambodian influences, featuring comforting flavors like sesame, peanut butter, and banana, all expertly woven into reimagined classics.

The Hudson Rooms, Capella Hanoi, Vietnam

One of the distinct advantages of having family residing abroad is the guaranteed annual pilgrimage to visit. When that destination is Vietnam, the experience is all the more rewarding. Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of observing the nation’s burgeoning cocktail scene evolve dramatically. Capella Hanoi’s rooftop bar, The Hudson Rooms, has now become a cherished staple on my itinerary. Drawing visual inspiration from the grandeur of 1920s Grand Central Station, the wrap-around corner bar provides the perfect perch from which to commence an evening with champagne and caviar as the sun dips below the horizon over the "City of the Soaring Dragon." From there, one can delve into its thoughtfully curated, train-travel-themed cocktail menu of cleverly elevated classics, or explore the enticing whisky and oyster pairings. And if you’re wondering whether I mentioned its clandestine whisky bar, Track 61 – I didn’t.

Origin Bar, Shangri-La Singapore, Singapore

Nestled away from the more bustling urban thoroughfares, Shangri-La Singapore evokes the grandeur of a Bond villain’s secluded lair, just off the renowned Orchard Road. The lobby of this architecturally striking hotel is an experience in itself, a dramatic fusion of concrete and lush greenery. However, venturing beyond the living walls, Herculean pillars, and intricate stone art features reveals the understated elegance of Origin Bar. Drawing aesthetic cues from vintage travel, the bar’s cocktails are thoughtfully inspired by local flavors and historical narratives, incorporating ingredients that range from kimchi and lychee to calamansi, Thai tea, and even nacho powder. The presentation of the cocktails here is an art form in itself, promising a theatrical and unforgettable experience. During my visit, the entire bar team comprised talented women – a sight that always brings me immense joy.

Beach Club, Desa Potato Head, Bali

Having risen at 5 am for a soul-stirring sunrise sound healing session and spent the day exploring the ancient Balinese temples, the perfect conclusion to your day involves the soothing rhythm of the Indian Ocean waves accompanied by a well-deserved libation. For this, I wholeheartedly recommend Desa Potato Head, a tropical sanctuary that places sustainability at the core of its ethos. The cocktails are no exception to this commitment. The bar team collaborates closely with local farmers, artisans, and distilleries to implement a "circular" program, maximizing ingredient utilization across various drinks to minimize waste without ever compromising on flavor. While each of its five distinct venues offers a unique experience, it was the Beach Club that most pleasantly surprised me during a whirlwind visit early last year. Its unassuming bar produces exceptionally refreshing cocktails for a remarkable volume of guests throughout the day. I particularly enjoyed the homemade non-alcoholic Banana Coffee Tonic and the Bina Colada, a delightful concoction featuring mesoyi, nutmeg, and pineapple-infused arak. Be sure to sample the local snakefruit as well.

Zapote Bar, Rosewood Mayakoba, Mexico

During one of my many research trips to Mexico for my recently published tequila book, I had the immense pleasure of staying at the extraordinary Rosewood Mayakoba, nestled in the coastal region of Playa del Carmen. The property’s lush surroundings, impeccable service, abundant natural beauty, and sensational culinary offerings solidify its status as a standout among the hotel portfolio. However, it is the bar that truly elevates the experience. Zapote Bar, named after the native Yucatan tree, might just be the most enjoyable hotel bar experience I have ever had. The design is tactile, clean, and evokes the comfort of a well-appointed living room, serving as a tribute to local artisans. Its cocktails are clever interpretations of classics, and an on-site agave tasting room provides an unparalleled exploration of local spirits. Yet, it is the exceptional hospitality and the vibrant atmosphere cultivated by the team that truly redefine the perception of a luxury hotel bar.

Silver Lyan, Riggs Hotel, Washington DC

Ryan Chetiyawardana, widely known as Mr. Lyan, possesses a unique talent for creating extraordinary drinking experiences, and his first permanent U.S. outpost was celebrating its fifth anniversary during my visit in the uncomfortably humid conditions of July last year. Fortunately, descending into the former bank vault at DC’s Riggs Hotel, I felt instantly immersed in a world of sophisticated cool. Silver Lyan, resplendent in its mid-century furnishings, delivers the signature Lyan standard of unorthodox, mind-bending creations. The current menu features ingredients such as Riesling ink, fish sauce sherbet, and, remarkably, concrete. The ethereal Silver Apple Martini, crafted with vodka, clarified green apple, Capreolus ‘1000 Trees’ eau de vie, and bisongrass, would be a perfect final cocktail for me. The innovative jello shots, served with champagne chasers, are equally inspired. Coupled with delicious tater tots, ice-cold bottles of Miller High Life, and a charmingly attentive team, Silver Lyan is a destination that demands recognition.

Champagne Bar, Four Seasons at The Surf Club, Miami

Just when you believe you’ve experienced all the palm-tree-lined allure Miami has to offer, allow me to direct your attention to the Champagne Bar at the Four Seasons. Here, the domed ceilings, conservatory-style furnishings, and exquisite wooden accents create a captivating ambiance. The Surf Club, with its origins dating back to the 1930s, has long been a playground for some of the world’s most discerning imbibers, including luminaries like Winston Churchill, Elizabeth Turner, and Noel Coward. Today, it welcomes patrons to its resplendent Champagne Bar, which houses Miami’s most extensive collection of champagne. Complementing this impressive selection are elegantly crafted, classic cocktails. The bar embraces its playful, beach-adjacent locale with delightful serves like Cosmos, Palomas, and Espresso Martinis, though its dedicated Martini list is also a compelling reason to visit.