‘Exceptional’ Scottish speakeasy bar named among the best in the world
A multi-award-winning hidden Scottish bar has been named as one of the best in the world.
The 50 Best Bars has recently unveiled the bars ranked No.51 to No.100, marking the tenth consecutive year of the extended ranking. Published two weeks ahead of The 50 Best Bars 2026 awards ceremony, the extended list celebrates an even broader selection of outstanding bars and cocktail destinations from around the world, and one of these is in Scotland.
The 51-100 list includes bars spanning 34 cities worldwide and there are 13 new entries in this year's ranking across Accra, Athens, Bangkok, Dublin, Goa, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Melbourne, Mexico City, San José, Shenzhen and Singapore.
In the UK there are three entries including Edinburgh’s Panda & Sons which is at number 72. The others are in London and are Three Sheets (Soho) at No.73 and Scarfes Bar at No.77.
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Panda & Sons has consistently been named in the Top 50 bars in the UK for years, and has made this global ranking for the last couple of years.
Opened in 2013 by Iain McPherson, the speakeasy style bar whose frontage is that of a Victorian barbers, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Milan will host The 50 Best Bars 2026 as the awards programme returns to Europe for its 18th edition. Widely regarded as a benchmark of excellence in the global drinks industry, the annual ranking is compiled from the votes of The 50 Best Bars Academy, comprising more than 800 independent bartenders, drinks writers, educators and industry specialists from around the world.
The 51-100 list is intended to shine a light on an even greater number of bars, teams and individuals whose creativity, innovation and influence continue to shape cocktail culture on a global scale.
Faye Huggett, director of community for The 50 Best Bars, said: “The 51-100 list has become a vital part of The 50 Best Bars programme, allowing us to recognise an even broader range of exceptional venues from around the world while encouraging cocktail lovers to discover new destinations and experiences.
“It celebrates the diversity, innovation and energy that define today’s global bar scene, shining a spotlight on establishments that consistently deliver outstanding drinks and world-class hospitality.
“From renowned industry favourites to rising stars pushing the boundaries of cocktail culture, the bars featured in this year’s ranking reflect the talent, passion and dedication that continue to elevate our industry. We are thrilled to celebrate their achievements and the remarkable teams behind them.”
The countdown of the list of The 50 Best Bars 2026, sponsored by Perrier, will also be broadcast live to a global audience at 20:00 Milan time on 7 October 2026. Bar and cocktail lovers are invited to join through The 50 YouTube channel.
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