The Best Bars Sri Lanka ranking is determined through a structured, three-stage process designed to identify and recognise the country’s leading bars.
Step 1 of 3
25+ bar enthusiasts & industry experts
An initial long list of bars will be curated through recommendations from more than 25 bar enthusiasts and industry experts from across Sri Lanka.
This process will draw on the collective knowledge of people familiar with the country’s diverse bar landscape.
Step 2 of 3
3 key considerations
The shortlist will be developed by taking into account three key considerations. Together, these will help identify a representative shortlist of establishments for the final round.
The recommendations and votes received during the initial polling process.
An opportunity for bars to put themselves forward for consideration, at no cost.
Ensuring that the selection reflects the breadth and diversity of Sri Lanka’s bar scene.
Step 3 of 3
100+ jury members
A jury of more than 100 bar enthusiasts, industry experts, connoisseurs and writers will vote from the shortlisted establishments to determine the Best Bars Sri Lanka ranking.
The process is designed to draw on a broad range of informed perspectives and recognise excellence across the country’s evolving bar landscape.
From many, the best
Each stage narrows the field while widening the range of informed voices — from recommendations across the island to a final vote by more than 100 jurors.
01 — Longlist
Recommendations from 25+ bar enthusiasts and industry experts
02 — Shortlist
Jury votes, self-nominations and geographical representation
03 — Ranking
Final vote by 100+ jurors, unveiled on awards night
Illustrative — not to scale.
No. Self-nomination is open to bars across Sri Lanka at no cost. It is one of three considerations used to build the shortlist.
The final ranking is decided by an independent jury of more than 100 bar enthusiasts, industry experts, connoisseurs and writers, voting from the shortlist.
It takes into account the votes received in the long-list jury poll, self-nominations from bars, and geographical representation across the island.
The inaugural ranking and award winners will be unveiled at the Best Bars Sri Lanka awards evening on 9 March 2027 at Cinnamon Life — City of Dreams, Colombo.
The ceremony is an invite-only industry gathering of 150–200 guests. Everyone is welcome to join the Best Bars Sri Lanka Cocktail Weekend at participating venues across the island.
FreeSelf-nominations
Self-nomination is one of three considerations that shape the shortlist. Put your bar forward for the inaugural edition — at no cost.
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