You might not know this, but many of the world’s most famous cocktails were actually created in luxury hotel bars by passionate mixologists catering to the whims of an ever-demanding clientele.
In fact, for generations, it’s been hotel bars – from The American Bar at The Savoy Hotel, where the White Lady was created, to The Sazerac Bar at The Roosevelt New Orleans, the famous birthplace of the Ramos Gin Fizz – that have defined and driven the cocktail trends that are then picked up and explored by independent bars, and this continues today, with the world’s leading hotel bars ceaselessly exploring new flavour profiles and ingredients while providing the very best in contemporary hospitality.
We take a look at some of the world’s best hotel bars, each a haven of innovation and sophistication and a place of pilgrimage for lovers of elegant libations.
Peacock Alley, Waldorf Astoria Osaka, Japan
The newest contender for the best hotel bar in the city, Waldorf Astoria Osaka’s infinitely elegant Peacock Alley is a striking, seductive Art Deco-esque space created by internationally acclaimed architect André Fu.
This chic lounge, inspired by the original Peacock Alley of New York, is the social hub around which the hotel’s lobby gravitates. With its triple-height ceilings, grand chandeliers, mosaic floors, and striking wood and bronze clock, Peacock Alley is a space that transcends time.
Guests can dress to the nines and slip into a plush lounge chair to order from a series of fascinating twists on timeless classics – I’d suggest the bar’s take on the Gibson, which is made with local Roku Gin, Mancino Secco vermouth and Japanese Sakura bitters.
Sora Bar, Rosewood Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Lofty and luxurious, Sora Bar is the most coveted cocktail destination in the Cambodian capital.
Perched on the 37th floor of the Vattanac Capital Tower, home to the luxurious Rosewood Phnom Penh, the stunning award-winning Sora Bar features both indoor and outdoor spaces (from which you can spy the Mekong River), as well as an elegant cocktail bar where thoroughly contemporary cocktails are crafted by director of bars Nimol Leourng, who focuses on telling the story of Cambodia through unique ingredients, including lemongrass, chilli, and palm sugar, while maintaining an industry leading sustainability program that sees 70% of the bar’s ingredients sourced locally or from the hotel’s hydroponic gardens.
I’d suggest my favourite martini in town, the Sora Martini, a zero-waste classic made with vermouth crafted from kitchen scraps, orange peels and pulp, Kampot pepper and gin from Seekers Spirits. Also, be sure to browse the bar’s Whisky Library, which offers Cambodia’s widest selection of dark spirits.
Long Bar, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Macau
A sophisticated speakeasy inspired by legendary journeys, the Long Bar at the Raffles at Galaxy Macau (the city’s newest luxury enclave) is the city’s premium hotspot for cocktail creations and a superbly sexy ambience.
Modelled on a traditional gin bar (so expect an impressive list of locally-produced artisanal spirits), this opulent venue pays homage to the original Long Bar, where the Singapore Sling was created in 1915 by Raffles bartender Ngiam Tong Boon.
With interiors by designer Joyce Wang that take their cues from the storied Portuguese carrack ship, the Madre de Deus, the bar features a sophisticated drinks menu with several libations by acclaimed bar consultant Antonio Lai, who pays tribute to common gin ingredients carried on the Madre de Dues, including pepper, cloves, cinnamon, mace and nutmeg – be sure to try his Million Dollar Cocktail.
Elephant Bar, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Cambodia
Elegant and sophisticated, the Elephant Bar is one of the most coveted watering holes in the Cambodian capital.
This award-winning bar, located at historic Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh, is another hotel bar renowned for having one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse and thoughtfully curated gin collections, with more than 150 labels on offer (take the World Gin Tour to sample your way through them all), including the coveted Sipsmith Raffles 1915 and the bar’s own Elephant Gin.
The Elephant Bar exudes timeless charm and sophistication with its rich wood accents, colourful ceiling frescoes and historic photographs on the walls, while wicker chairs and leather sofas bask behind high French windows and arched colonnades in true colonial style.
The best seats in the house are on the patio (perfect for sundowners) or at the bar top, where you can order a Femme Fatale, a champagne and cognac-laced cocktail specially created for Jacqueline Kennedy during her visit in 1967.
Ozone, The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, Hong Kong
If you like spectacular views and sensational drinks, you can’t go past The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong’s elegant Ozone, the highest rooftop bar in the world.
Located on the 118th floor (approximately 490 meters above sea level), Ozone was designed by Japanese firm Wonderwall around the concept of an Edenic Experiment, and while the bar features two private rooms and a cavernous (and rather sci-fi) interior setting, you’ll come here for the unforgettable views of Hong Kong from the outdoor terrace (be sure to book ahead), where you can pair your drinks with a menu of global snacks – think Katsu Sandos and Wagyu sliders with tomato chutney.
If you’re looking to splurge, opt for the bar’s signature Ritz Royale, a twist on the classic Sidecar cocktail made with Maison Ferrand’s S.D.A. – Selection des Anges, a 30-year-old Cognac, Oloroso 1842 Solera Sherry, Manuka honey, yuzu, and absinthe and topped with Dom Pérignon Champagne.
The Fleur Room, Moxy Chelsea, United States
Located on the 35th floor of the Moxy Chelsea in New York City, The Fleur Room is a rooftop lounge encased in glass, showcasing panoramic 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline.
In a city famed for its elegant hotel cocktail bars, The Fleur Room, conceptualised by Tao Group, is an intimate space that draws an eclectic crowd lured by lush interiors that reference the surrounding Flower Market – think a chandelier resembling oversized water droplets, dazzling floral-patterned seating, and a copper-clad bar. You can also expect impressive views of the Empire State Building and even the Statue of Liberty.
A list of creative cocktails (we love the range of mini martinis) is accompanied by a simple, elegant menu of elevated bar snacks and a massive vintage disco ball — a one-of-a-kind artefact salvaged from the notorious 1980s L.A. nightclub Vertigo. The real showstopper: The lounge’s glass walls descend at the touch of a button, transforming the space into an alfresco sky veranda.
Rock Bar, Ayana Estate Bali, Indonesia
One of the most famous hotel bars in Asia, Ayana Bali’s iconic Rock Bar is the place to savour the island’s famous sunsets.
Perched on natural rock formations along Jimbaran Bay, the Yasuhiro Koichi-designed bar (accessed from Ayana Estate via an exciting inclinator) is located just 14 meters above the Indian Ocean, offering guests stunning, unobstructed views of the sunset and the southern coast of Bali.
One of Bali’s most popular evening spots, be sure to book ahead for a coveted lounge table, where you can soak up the ocean views with classic tropical cocktails, a menu of gourmet tapas and light bar bites and tracks spun by world-class DJs, who play a mix of chill-out and sunset beats.
Vesper Bar, The Dorchester, United Kingdom
A London institution, the Vesper Bar at The Dorchester has long been famed for its signature Vesper Martini, a classic blend of gin and vodka shaken with the warmth of sherry and a surprising spritz of lemony magic.
During The Dorchester’s recent renovation, Swedish architect Martin Brudnizki redesigned the popular Vesper Bar, taking inspiration from the spirit and elegance of the roaring 1930s. The resulting cocktail divan features an eye-catching Palladium leaf ceiling that creates a warm effect for Martini Hour, as well as a series of Cecil Beaton photographs.
All this sets the stage for the bar’s cocktail list, created by bar manager Lucia Montanelli and head bartender Denise Elisei, which includes all the classics (the bar’s namesake libation is made with Stolichnaya Elit vodka, Dorchester Old Tom gin, Del Duque 30 and re-distilled Forbidden Fruit) as well as the Eterna list, which celebrates the power of the Golden Ratio – try the Herbaceous, a blend of Doorly’s three year old rum, tamarillo, basil and absinthe.
Charles H., Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, South Korea
One of Asia’s most awarded hotel bars, Charles H. is a seductive, brooding space that’s a must-visit for Seoul-bound cocktail lovers.
This elegant cocktail destination was named for legendary American author and epicurean Charles H. Baker, who travelled the world from the 1920s to the 1950s, and is one of Asia’s most awarded hotel bars.
Charles H. offers a range of innovative and classic cocktails, as well as a lineup of drinks by head bartender Odd Strandbakken and beverage creative director Alyssa Heidt that pay tribute to four cities featured in Baker’s writings. This includes my favourite, the NYC Flight, a trio of Manhattan cocktails inspired by the creations of famous contemporary Big Apple mixologists and named after New York neighbourhoods.
Also, look out for Yellow Taxi, a creative take on the classic Penicillin cocktail with a smoky mezcal base, homemade ginger-honey mustard and a unique hot dog-inspired smoky float and garnished with ginger jelly with a chilli kick.
Ume Lounge at Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Japan
Ski bunnies can warm their bodies and souls at Niseko’s elegant Ume Lounge, a chic ski chalet-styled cocktail lounge.
Travellers to Japan’s favourite Alpine playground can relish in the sound of a crackling fireplace while watching snow fall gently to the ground at the Ume Lounge, located at the luxurious Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, tucked between Mt Yōtei and Mt Niseko Annupuri in Japan.
Offering a portfolio of creative cocktails, locally brewed beers and an impressive selection of Japanese whiskies, there is something for every traveller seeking a refreshing and elegant drink in the serenity of Niseko Village’s breathtaking alpine setting.
As for the best cocktail, the bar’s alpine mixologist creates customised cocktails for each guest, so everyone has a personal favourite based on their desired palette.
Principe Bar, Hotel Principe di Savoia, Italy
Nestled in the heart of Hotel Principe di Savoia, Principe Bar is the place in Milan to see and be seen, particularly around notable events such as Fashion Week.
The Thierry Despont-designed bar is opulent glamour at its best, and features a custom-made banquette wrapped dramatically around a grand piano. The bar is a work of art in itself, with its sculpted crystal and back-lit mirrored wall perfectly complementing the light playing around the room.
Beverage consultant Marco Russo and head barman Daniele Celli, renowned mixologists and co-founders of the iconic Milanese speakeasy 1930, serve up seasonal, locally-inspired cocktails – six signature cocktails and six classics with a creative spin – inspired by great drinks dating back to the 1800s.
Signature cocktail highlights include El Milanes, a saffron-based libation that emphasises the relationship with the city and Milanese tradition, and A Gift from the Field made with gin, artichoke bitter, rhubarb and vermouth.
Rosebay at Hotel 1000, United States
Get a sense of place with sophisticated cocktails at Rosebay, the luxurious bar at Seattle’s acclaimed Hotel 1000.
Located at the lobby level of the hotel, Rosebay promises a captivating experience all of its own. Warm, woodsy corners combine with elevated maritime details, a custom fireplace and a colour palette informed by the city’s vibrant energy and natural landscape.
Cocktails – infused with elements of fire, smoke and pine – are a nod to the Pacific Northwest, while popular Aperitivi, amari and other herbal spirits lend complexity and firewater tinctures, black lemon bitters, and flamed orange twists add a contemporary flair of showmanship.
Reserve Cocktails feature rare and vintage spirits and include the Reserve Bijou with Monkey 47 Gin, Green Chartreuse, Cocchi Dopo Teatro and Seville orange bitters.
Roof Terrace, El Fenn, Morocco
If there’s a place to be in Marrakech’s bustling centre, it has to be the uber-chic Roof Terrace at boutique hideaway El Fenn.
Set within the medina of Marrakech, this popular roof terrace is dressed in the hotel’s signature red and white colour scheme, and offers stunning cityscape views that include the Koutoubia Mosque, as well as drinks served from a spectacular 30-foot marble bar.
Resembling a chic beach club, the terrace, one of the city’s hottest sunset spots, boasts sun lounges and day beds as well as bespoke furniture in an iconic Suzani pattern, a classic Arabic print.
Signature cocktails to look out for include my favourite, the El Fenn Mule, with saffron-infused vodka, fresh ginger and fresh lime; and the Red City Rosé Cooler, with rosé wine, fresh strawberry, triple sec and sparkling wine.
SEEN Sky Bar, Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa, Portugal
The city’s most coveted cocktail destination, SEEN, located at the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade in Lisbon, captures the essence of the Portuguese capital to perfection.
At this lofty respite, head bartender Hugo Feijão incorporates gastronomic techniques and culinary elements into the bar’s insightful cocktails. For instance, Wasabi Papi is a cocktail inspired by wasabi paste, while Le Citron is finished with a burnt sugar topping like a crème brulé and Drink Me 2.0 (my go to libation in the city) stands out for its herbal palate featuring coriander.
For those who want to skip dessert and head straight to the bar, Coco Loco is an inventive take on the Espresso Martini, combining white tequila, coffee and salted caramel with fleur de sel.
Be sure to pair your drink with dishes by renowned ‘chefpreneur’ Olivier de Costa, including truffled linguini and the SEEN Taco (the restaurant’s most requested dish).
The Street Bar, Newbury Boston Hotel, United States
Cosy and discreet, The Street Bar is your exclusive cocktail haunt in the centre of Beantown.
A testament to Newbury’s rich history, which dates back to its 1927 origins as one of the country’s first Ritz-Carlton hotels, The Street Bar actually overlooks the Boston Public Garden and has been designed by Jeffrey Beers International to embody the glamorous 1920s with classic leather barstools, dark wood panelling and a crackling fireplace (which is great on those frosty Bostonian evenings).
Curated by the Major Food Group, the bar menu offers expertly crafted cocktails – be sure to try the Leave It To Me with Grey Goose vodka, maraschino, raspberry, lemon and egg white – and New England-inspired culinary delights.
Exclusive seating in the adjacent Library lounge adds a layer of sophistication for hotel guests and serves as a nod to the property’s distinguished past.
The Collins Club, The Leinster, Ireland
Combining contemporary cocktails with Georgian glamour, The Collins Club is a chic little hideaway housed in Dublin’s newest lifestyle hotel.
Located on the ground floor of the oh-so-swanky Leinster boutique hotel, The Collins Club has quickly become the heartbeat of the city’s dynamic evening scene. Under the guidance of visionary mixologist and food and beverage manager Milan Ormanovic, the bar’s cocktails are a seamless blend of tradition and innovation, crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
These can be paired with a showcase of music performances throughout the week by emerging and established Irish talents. In addition, The Collins Club elevates the classic brunch with its Champagne Cha Cha, a fizz-fuelled affair featuring Mumm Champagne.
Song Bar, Hilton Saigon, Vietnam
With stunning views of Ho Chi Minh City, Song Bar is a luxurious retreat from the chaos of street level.
Located on the highest floor of Hilton Saigon, Song Bar encompasses wraparound views of the city skyline through its floor-to-ceiling windows, offering spectacular sunset views for its guests. The bar’s interior is a blend of oriental and contemporary design with rich wood panelling, plush velvet seating and striking statement lights.
The bar’s menu showcases a sophisticated collection of fine wines and innovative cocktails, highlights of which include East Meets West, a harmonious blend of Vietnamese mandarin – a symbol of freshness and vitality from the East – and elderflower, a fragrant, delicate ingredient representing the elegance and sophistication of the West.
Zephyr Sky Bar, Hyatt Regency Sydney, Australia
With its nautical-inspired décor and high-flying clientele, Zephyr is one of Sydney’s hottest hotel bar destinations.
This award-winning retreat, perched on level 21 of the Hyatt Regency, in the heart of Sydney’s bustling downtown, Zephyr Sky Bar is best known for its open-air lounge and celebrated views of iconic Darling Harbour, making it one of Sydney’s sexiest cocktail gems.
The bar’s extensive signature cocktail and spirits menu promises to take sippers on a sensory journey and includes innovative creations with jalapeno-infused mezcal through to kaffir lime-infused vodka.
Whilst sipping on the delicious cocktails, guests can enjoy a delicious contemporary food menu featuring dishes enhanced with fortified wines and rum reductions, alongside timeless favourites such as Pacific Oysters, a classic charcuterie board and fan-favourite lobster popcorn.
Il Bacaro, Hotel Cipriani, Italy
Part of the hotel’s renovation by architect and interior designer Peter Marino, who draws on the vibrant Dolce Vita of the 1950s and ‘60s, Venice’s iconic Hotel Cipriani, a Belmond Hotel, has launched Il Bacaro Dior, an indulgent new lagoon-side cocktail bar.
Located on the Fondamenta and boasting sweeping west-facing views of St. Mark’s basin and offering some of the city’s best sunset vistas, Il Bacaro Dior is the first Dior Bar in Italy, and the space is elegantly dressed in reinterpretations of Dior’s iconic toile de Jouy.
At the new alfresco hotel bar, guests can indulge in a curated menu of cocktails – try the New Look, a twist on the Manhattan with whiskey, Sangue Morlacco, and orange bitters – and a selection of Venetian cicchetti tapas that ranges from steamed langoustines with horseradish and bottarga, to sea lettuce with oysters, lagoon shrimps and caviar.