3 Shanghai bars earn a spot on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2017

Last night, Wednesday 21, World's 50 Best announced their list of Asia's 50 Best Bars 2017, and we're psyched to say that once again three Shanghai cocktail dens have earned themselves a place among the region's greats.

Speak Low's hidden entrance

First up, Shingo Gokan is absolutely crushin' it – not only did his world renowned speakeasy Speak Low take the number two spot for the second year in a row (also holding a place on the current list of World's 50 Best Bars), but his new concept Sober Company, within which rests exceptional bar Sober Society and its classy AF cocktails, came in at number 19. 

Sober Society's The Godfather III

Boasting expertly crafted drinks like The Godfather III, a chilled glass of Laphroig 10 Year with hints of hojicha (Japanese green tea), apricot brandy, and bitters decorated with a piece of salty candied prosciutto, we can't say we're surprised. Gokan is on his way to becoming a Shanghai bar scene legend, and it's well deserved.

Yao Lu of Union Trading Company

Coming in at number nine is well-loved Former French Concession watering hole Union Trading Company, helmed by the friendly and talented bartender and co-founder Yao Lu. This perennially popular hang out has made an excellent name for itself, with Yao's always changing list of creative, unique cocktails, a laid back setting and tasty bites by chef Austin Hu (Madison Kitchen, Diner).

Manhattan, Singapore (image via Time Out Singapore)

So, who snagged the number one spot? That would be Manhattan at the ritzy Regent Singapore hotel, famed for – you guessed it – its fabulous Manhattan cocktail (among many others, of course). Be sure to check out the full list of winners so you know where to hit up on your next trip to Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo and beyond.

Congrats to all of these first-rate venues and their badass bartenders for showing the rest of the continent that Shanghai's bars and bartenders are forces to be reckoned with. You make us proud, kids, real proud.

More from Time Out Shanghai

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