Earlier this week, at a live ceremony held in Madrid, The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024 were announced, with three of Australia’s bars ranking among the best global hospitality venues.

After taking home the prestigious Mitcher’s Art of Hospitality Award earlier this month, Caretaker’s Cottage in Melbourne climbed two places to number 21, triumphantly claiming the title of Best Bar in Australasia, which has previously been won by Maybe Sammy every year since 2019.

In a statement on Instagram, owners Rob Libecans, Ryan Noreiks and Matt Stirling said: “Our heads are still spinning from the news. Thank you to all that voted and to all that support us day in, day out. And to our incredible staff. We love you, none of this would be possible without you.

“We’re just 3 best friends who thought opening a bar was a good idea. We never imagined to reach such highs,” they continued.

Caretaker’s Cottage was followed closely by Sydney’s Maybe Sammy in 26^th place, a previous recipient of the Mitcher’s Art of Hospitality Award in 2020, and Melbourne’s Byrdi entering the list as a new entrant in 35^th place.

Stefano Cantino, Co-founder of Maybe Sammy, shared his pride in his team’s efforts and the continued recognition of the venue, which just last year was named the most influential bar in the world.

“Being recognised among the top 50 bars in the world is a tremendous honour. We are so proud of what our team has accomplished – from five years as Australasia’s best to being the first ever Australian Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award winners. Their passion and creativity are at the heart of everything we do at Maybe Sammy.

“We’re also very proud of Caretaker’s Cottage on being named Best Bar in Australasia this year – it’s fantastic to see Australian talent continue to shine on the global stage,” he stated.

The 2024 list features bars from 28 cities including 16 new entries, with Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City becoming the first Mexican bar to take the top spot.

Emma Sleight, Head of Content for The World’s 50 Best Bars, says: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every bar on this year’s list, which once again highlights the incredible diversity of the global bar sector. We hope that this year’s list continues to operate as a beacon for cocktail lovers the world over.”

Other special award winners announced in the run-up to the awards include Iain Mcpherson who was given the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award, and Cantina OK! And Above Board who landed at 96 and 100 respectively in the extended 51-100 list.

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