asia’s 50 Best Bars ([translate:Asia’s 50 Best Bars]), the ‘Billboard of the Bar Industry’ the 2025 rankings have been released. this year, eight bars from South Korea made the list, proving that Seoul has emerged as the center of Asia’s cocktail bar culture. We visited three of the top 50 – Zest, Alice Cheongdam, and Le Chamber – to see for ourselves.

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2nd place: Zest ([translate:Zest]) – Sustainable Fine Drinking

zest came in second in Asia this year, solidifying its title of ‘Best Bar in Korea’. their core philosophy is ‘zero waste’. scraps of fruit, herbs, and even coffee grounds are dried and fermented into new flavors. once you pass through the cavernous entrance, you’ll find yourself in a world of creative cocktails that take the heavy subject of sustainability and turn it into something delicious and fun.

the signature ‘Z&T’: house-made gin and tonic water, plus seasonal fruit (tangerine), for a surprisingly well-balanced drink.

the adventurous ‘Last Piece’: an ingenious combination of pineapple peel wine, baguette tails and burnt gorgonzola cheese. the pairing with the accompanying mini croissants is superb.

13th place: Alice Cheongdam ([translate:Alice Cheongdam]) – Cocktails in Wonderland

open the hidden entrance to this underground flower shop and you’ll find yourself in a world as mysterious as Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Alice Cheongdam has been awarded the ‘Highest Climber’ award, rising 33 places from last year. the trump card-shaped menu and friendly bartender’s explanations make it fun for cocktail novices.

the Face to Vase ([translate: Face to Vase]): a cocktail that started with the idea of “what would it taste like to drink water from a vase? the flavor of eucalyptus and the sweetness of mango combine in a refreshing way.

‘Bordeaux Martini ([translate:Bordeaux Martini])’: a unique martini that combines wine and gin and is cloudy with the cloudy-fi technique for added visual interest.

no. 50: Le Chamber ([translate:Le Chamber]) – Behind the bookcases, the opulence

this speakeasy bar has been on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list for 10 years in a row. slide through a secret bookcase and you’ll find yourself in an opulent, expansive space. the cocktail list is both classic and creative.

the Laughing Buddha ([translate: Laughing Buddha]): As the name suggests, this cocktail is served in a Buddha-shaped glass. the combination of soft rice wine and pineapple gives it an exotic, tropical flavor.

‘Bittersweet Kiss ([translate:Bittersweet Kiss])’: a cucumber-based tonic rimmed with white chocolate, this drink is a refreshing and sweet combination.

seoul’s cocktail bars are more than just a place to drink, they are now offering a complete experience with original concepts, philosophies, and quality service. this weekend, why not take a trip to one of Seoul’s world-renowned bars?

frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q. what is a ‘Speakeasy Bar’?

A. It originated from the 1920s American Prohibition-era speakeasies that operated in secret without signage. Like Alice’s Cheongdam and Le Chamber, they are characterized by hidden entrances or special entry methods to create a mysterious atmosphere that only those in the know can visit.

Q. why do I pay a cover charge when visiting a cocktail bar?

A. A cover charge is a seat tax, usually around 10,000 won per person. Places like Alice Cheongdam and Le Chamber charge a cover charge, and in return, they provide a welcome drink, light snacks, water, etc. to increase your satisfaction.

Q. how are the Asia 50 Best Bars selected?

A. The list is voted on by more than 300 industry experts from across Asia, including bartenders, bar owners, and journalists specializing in spirits. it is recognized as the most prestigious award in the Asian bar industry due to its fairness and credibility.