When you’re searching for the ultimate bar experience from the World’s 50 Best Bars North America list, you’re really asking: which single venue truly defines excellence right now? As of the most recent rankings (2023), the undisputed champion for North America is Double Chicken Please in New York City, which also holds the #2 spot globally. This isn’t just a high-ranking bar; it’s a statement about innovation, atmosphere, and truly exceptional drinks.
First, Define the Question Properly
The phrase "World’s 50 Best Bars North America" can be a little misleading. It doesn’t refer to a separate, distinct list of 50 North American bars. Instead, it typically means two things:
- The Highest-Ranking North American Bars on the Global World’s 50 Best Bars List: This is the primary interpretation. The global list includes bars from around the world, and we look at which North American establishments placed highest.
- The "North America’s Best Bar" Award: Each year, The World’s 50 Best organization also gives out regional awards. This is the official designation for the top bar within the continent.
Understanding this distinction is key, as the official regional winner might not always be the highest-ranking North American bar on the global list if, for example, a bar from another continent took the absolute top global spot. However, for 2023, Double Chicken Please achieved both: the #2 spot globally and the official "North America’s Best Bar" title.
The Reigning Champion: Double Chicken Please, New York City
Double Chicken Please, located on New York City’s Lower East Side, isn’t just serving drinks; it’s crafting an experience that has captivated the global bar community. It secured the #2 spot on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 list and, crucially, was named North America’s Best Bar. What makes it stand out?
- Concept: The bar operates with a dual concept. The "Front Room" offers playful, refreshing tap cocktails, while the "Back Room" delivers a more intricate, reservation-only experience with inventive drinks inspired by classic dishes (think French Toast or Cold Pizza).
- Innovation: Their cocktails are known for their unexpected flavor combinations and meticulous presentation, pushing the boundaries of what a drink can be.
- Atmosphere: It blends a casual, vibrant energy with sophisticated mixology, making it approachable yet aspirational.
What Other Articles Get Wrong About "Best Bars" Lists
Many articles on "best bars" fall into common traps that lead to outdated or incomplete information:
- Outdated Rankings: The World’s 50 Best Bars list is dynamic, updated annually. What was #1 two years ago might not even be in the top 10 today. Relying on old reputations rather than current data is a frequent mistake.
- Ignoring Regional Nuances: Some pieces focus solely on New York City or Los Angeles, overlooking the incredible bar scenes thriving in places like Mexico City, Montreal, or Toronto, which consistently feature on the global list. Mexico City, in particular, has become a powerhouse.
- Mistaking Popularity for Excellence: A bar can be incredibly popular without necessarily being at the cutting edge of mixology or service that merits a "World’s 50 Best" spot. The list judges on a specific set of criteria by industry experts.
- Misinterpreting "Speakeasy": Not every hidden or reservation-only bar is groundbreaking. Many articles use the term broadly, but true innovators are pushing beyond the mere aesthetic.
Beyond the Top Spot: Other North American Contenders
While Double Chicken Please is the current #1, North America boasts a remarkable array of bars that consistently rank among the world’s elite. These aren’t just runner-ups; they are destinations in their own right, each offering a unique and compelling reason to visit.
- Handshake Speakeasy (Mexico City): This bar held the North America’s Best Bar title in previous years and remains a formidable presence, known for its inventive drinks and elegant, hidden setting. It ranked #11 globally in 2023.
- Licorería Limantour (Mexico City): A long-standing fixture on the list, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, impeccable service, and consistently excellent cocktails. Ranked #7 globally in 2023.
- Katana Kitten (New York City): A Japanese-American dive bar with serious cocktail chops, offering a high-low experience that’s both approachable and expertly executed. It secured #14 globally in 2023.
- Attaboy (New York City): A bespoke cocktail experience where bartenders craft drinks based on your preferences, without a menu. It was #22 globally in 2023.
For a deeper dive into these and other highly-rated establishments, you can always check out more insights into North America’s best bars.
Final Verdict
If your goal is to visit the current, officially recognized "North America’s Best Bar" from the World’s 50 Best list, then Double Chicken Please in New York City is your definitive answer. However, if you’re seeking a consistently high-ranking, innovative experience in a different locale, Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City offers an equally compelling journey. Ultimately, the best bar is the one that delivers an unforgettable drink and a truly memorable night out.