The 2025 Spirited Awards, held at the Fillmore theater in New Orleans, celebrated the best in the cocktail industry, honoring innovative bars, talented bartenders, and dedicated mentors.
Among the standout winners was Kumiko, a bar in Chicago’s West Loop that dazzles with its Japanese-inspired menu. Founded by acclaimed bartender Julia Momosé, alongside Cara and Noah Sandoval, Kumiko took home the title of World’s Best Bar. Their minimalist approach to food and drinks garnered them acclaim, including a Michelin star in 2019 for chef Mariya Russell, a notable achievement for a Black woman in the culinary world.
Momosé’s journey began in Japan and evolved through various restaurant roles while she studied at Cornell University. After positions in Baltimore and Chicago, she became the ‘bar chef’ at The Aviary, a notable cocktail lounge. Her vision for Kumiko was inspired by Japanese rituals, reflected in the bar’s cocktail offerings, including unique “spiritless” drinks, a term she prefers over ‘mocktails.’ Kumiko’s accolades continued with the Exceptional Cocktails Award from Michelin in 2022.
Momosé’s heartfelt acceptance speech included reflections on her early experiences in New York City, particularly at Angel’s Share, a speakeasy that helped shape her understanding of community through food and drink. With a message to find beauty in quiet moments, she left a poignant impact on the audience.
Further acknowledging the influence of Japanese culture on cocktail crafting, Sip & Guzzle in New York won the title of Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar. This bar, inspired by a renowned Tokyo establishment founded by Shingo Gokan, is recognized for its impressive selection of Japanese beer, highballs, and approachable cocktails that have made waves in the West Village.
Trick Dog in San Francisco was recognized as the Best U.S. Cocktail Bar, a testament to its sustained excellence since winning for Best U.S. Cocktail Menu in 2017. Washington D.C.’s Allegory, last year’s winner for Best U.S. Hotel Bar, secured the title of Best U.S. Bar Team this year, showcasing the bar’s continued commitment to excellence.
The prestigious U.S. Bartender of the Year award went to Christine Kim from Service Bar in Washington, D.C. Her acceptance speech resonated with both encouragement and humor, reminding attendees of the importance of kindness within the industry.
At the international level, Hong Kong’s Bar Leone claimed the title of Best International Cocktail Bar. This bar, previously awarded Best New International Cocktail Bar, continues to stand out for its innovative offerings. Devil’s Cut in Madrid earned recognition as Best New International Cocktail Bar, while London’s Side Hustle was awarded Best International Hotel Bar, solidifying its status among top establishments.
Ian Burrell received the Helen Davidson Lifetime Achievement Award, reflecting his substantial contributions to the rum industry over his decades-long career. Burrell’s charismatic presentations and his co-founding of Equiano Rum exemplified his commitment to sharing his passion for spirits.
Mentorship in the hospitality sector was also honored, with Iain McPherson recognized as the Best International Bar Mentor. His bar, Panda & Sons, not only won accolades for its international team but also for World’s Best Cocktail Menu, further showcasing the impact of mentorship in fostering talent.
Colin Asare-Appiah received the Best U.S. Bar Mentor award, recognized for his dedication to advancing the next generation of bartenders in both the United States and Africa.
The ceremony concluded with a celebration of historical establishments, with Bar Cock in Madrid receiving the Timeless International Award and The Bar at Keens Steakhouse in New York honored with the Timeless U.S. Award. Keens, with a storied history dating back to 1885, is celebrated not just for its food but also for its impressively curated collection of clay pipes that belonged to many prominent figures.
The Spirited Awards provided a stage for the industry to celebrate its achievements, highlighting the dedication of professionals committed to elevating the art of mixology.
For a complete list of winners from the 2025 Spirited Awards, you can refer to the detailed announcements shared during the ceremony.
image source from：forbes
