A watershed moment happened in 2020 when calendar events around the world announced that they were all going to be held virtually. Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2020 – where Singapore’s Jigger & Pony claimed the top spot – was no exception.
One year on, the pandemic rages on. But this time, it seems organisers are much better prepared and accustomed to the new realities. And rather than wait-and-see, Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2021 has already announced that it is going ahead with a digital event once again.
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Expect a similar rundown to last year for this 6th edition of the awards. Anyone can tune in to the event via The World’s 50 Best Bars Facebook and 50 Best Bars TV YouTube Channel on May 6, starting at 6pm in Singapore and Hong Kong (3.30pm in India; 5pm in Thailand; 7pm in Japan).
As always, the event comprises a celebratory countdown, starting from the 50th spot, of all the best cocktail bars in Asia.
An addition to this year’s programme is the unveiling of bars ranked 51st to 100th through a series of special award announcements on April 29, the first time this is being done. Usually, those ranked beyond the 50th spot are simply listed on the 50 Best website without much fanfare.
In line with 50 Best’s role now as one championing for the betterment and survival of bars during such difficult times, the announcement of winners up to the 100th placement is being done “in order to celebrate more great bars across Asia”, stated organisers in a press release.
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That’s not all. A new video content series titled ‘Breaking The Ice’ is also being launched. According to them, it will showcase “frank and honest discussions between Asia’s top bartenders on how they will be tackling this vital recovery phase and what they have learned over recent months.”
Says Mark Sansom, Content Editor for Asia’s 50 Best Bars: “Given the devastating impact the global pandemic has had on the region’s bar scene, 50 Best’s role in championing great bars is more important than ever as we look to inspire guests to return to bars through our lists and surrounding content programmes.”
“As travel routes begin to open up, we believe our content will provide a focus for the pent-up international demand for great bar experiences,” he adds.
Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2021 takes place on May 6 via The World’s 50 Best Bars Facebook and 50 Best Bars TV YouTube Channel.