The World’s 50 Best Bars have been announced in Madrid, with three Australian bars included in the prestigious list voted by a global academy of bartenders, critics and other industry insiders.

Melbourne’s Caretaker’s Cottage came in at number 21, up two places from last year’s 23. The tiny but mighty bar also took out the title of Best Bar in Australasia, toppling Sydney’s Maybe Sammy which previously held the title every year since opening in 2019.

Maybe Sammy this year was named 26th best bar (down from 15 last year), with judges saying it has remained “the city’s most talked-about bar since it opened in early 2019, lighting up a dreary stretch of street in Sydney’s sandstone district, The Rocks.”

“Patrons come for a smartly packaged combination of theatrics and attentive, fun service that seeks to add a spark in one’s evening. And, of course, the bartenders donning those signature pastel pink jackets deliver delicious drinks with every pour.”

Making its debut in the top 50 at number 35 is Melbourne’s Byrdi, described by judges as maybe being “the most Australian bar in existence. Melbourne’s Byrdi is a new entry, and blends laid-back, loquacious service with high-concept cocktails.” In 2023 it ranked number 61 in the 51-100 longlist.

World’s 50 Best described Caretaker’s Cottage as “a charming bar that once served as the caretaker’s residence for the nearby church. Since opening it has quickly become a beloved spot for both locals and travellers, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and dedicated owners.“

“While the drinks menu changes monthly, featuring creative new concoctions, two staples remain: their famously super-cold signature martini and Guinness that rivals the best Irish pubs. With its relaxed vibe and commitment to quality, Caretaker’s Cottage truly embodies the essence of a neighbourhood pub.”

Caretaker’s Cottage was awarded The Age Good Food Guide Bar of the Year in 2023, with current Age Good Food Guide co-editor Ellen Fraser writing in that guide that: “Service is fast. It’s fun. Someone brought their dog along. Caretaker’s tears down the pomp and pretence so often associated with cocktails of this calibre, layering personality into an already character-filled space.”

Earlier this month, two Australian bars were named in the longlist of 51-100: tiny Sydney laneway mezcal bar Cantina OK at number 96 and Melbourne’s hidden Above Board at number 100.

The number one bar in the world for 2024 was awarded to Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico.

Earlier this year, Caretaker’s Cottage was also announced the winner of the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award 2024. This award was introduced in 2019, recognising one bar in the world where industry experts declared they received the single best hospitality experience at, during the voting period.

Caretaker’s Cottage, 139-141 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne caretakerscottage.bar

Maybe Sammy, 115 Harrington St, The Rocks maybesammy.com

Byrdi, 211 La Trobe Street, Melbourne byrdi.com.au

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