China's cocktail scene has reached a new milestone as Guangzhou-based Hope & Sesame was named The Best Bar in Asia 2026 at the Asia's 50 Best Bars awards ceremony held in Macao on July 28.

The recognition marks the first time a bar from the Chinese mainland has claimed the top spot of the prestigious regional ranking, highlighting the growing influence of Chinese creativity and cultural storytelling in Asia's rapidly evolving bar industry.

Located in Guangzhou's historical Yuexiu district, Hope & Sesame has been a fixture on the Asia's 50 Best Bars list for seven consecutive years. Hidden behind a traditional Cantonese storefront, the bar has gained international attention for its innovative cocktails that reinterpret Chinese flavors, culinary traditions and cultural memories through modern techniques.

Source: China Daily
Editor: Xue Yan