A bar in New York City has been crowned the best in North America, according to the recently released rankings for the 2026 edition of “North America’s 50 Best Bars.” The establishment, known as Sip & Guzzle, has rapidly made a name for itself in the region’s cocktail scene, securing the top position in these prestigious rankings announced on April 22.
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According to the awards statement from the organisers, World’s 50 Best, Sip & Guzzle has emerged as a significant player in the cocktail culture. “The venue has rapidly established itself as a defining force in the region’s cocktail culture, celebrated for its dynamic approach to hospitality and expertly executed drinks program,” they remarked. This recognition speaks to the bar’s innovative concept and focus on exceptional service.
Sip & Guzzle, located on Cornelia Street in Manhattan, marks a new venture for its founder, Shingo Gokan, who gained acclaim with his bar SG Club in Tokyo, which he opened in 2018. The bar’s concept aims to capture the essence of historical interactions between Japan and New York City. Leaders at Sip & Guzzle envision crafting drinks that blend the best of both cities, encouraging guests to embark on a unique flavour journey inspired by travel.
The award ceremony was illuminated by Emma Sleight, Head of Content for North America’s 50 Best Bars, who highlighted the significance of this year’s list. “The bars on this year’s list are exemplary in their ability to push boundaries and influence hospitality not only in North America, but across the globe,” she noted. Sleight extended her congratulations to Sip & Guzzle for securing the leading position among a host of talented bars.
This year’s rankings, presented in partnership with Perrier, include an impressive representation of bars from the United States, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. Specifically, 28 bars from the U.S. made the list, along with 11 from Mexico, eight from Canada, and three from Caribbean nations. Notably, 15 entries on the current list are new to the rankings, showcasing a dynamic shift in the drinks landscape.
In addition to Sip & Guzzle, the list features a variety of other acclaimed establishments. Bar Mauro, situated in Mexico City, received the title of Mexico’s best bar and ranked second overall. The Keefer Bar, based in Vancouver, claimed seventh position, earning the title of Canada’s top bar. Other notable mentions include Jewel of the South from New Orleans, True Laurel from San Francisco, and Chicago’s Kumio, which was awarded the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award.
The rankings reflect not only the bars’ prowess in mixology but also their commitment to creating exceptional guest experiences. Commenting on the diversity and quality represented, Sleight added, “From established leaders to exciting new entries, the bars featured continue to push the standard of what a world-class drinks experience can be with their talent, creativity and resilience.”
As the cocktail culture in North America continues to evolve, Sip & Guzzle stands at the forefront, revered for its imaginative take on traditional libations and its commitment to excellence. The recognition as the continent’s best bar is a testament to the dedication of its founders and staff in redefining the drinking experience for connoisseurs and curious newcomers alike.
For those interested in exploring groundbreaking cocktail establishments, the full list of “North America’s 50 Best Bars” for 2026 serves as a valuable guide to some of the most exciting spots across the continent. As the bar scene continues to thrive, enthusiasts can look forward to tasting the innovations that these establishments will deliver in the years to come.