These 2 Scandinavian bars have been named among the best in the world

As the highly anticipated Top 50 bars list looms, 50 Best has unveiled its extended 51-100 list, giving us a glimpse into the global cocktail scene before the final rankings are revealed. Amid the usual heavyweights from cocktail capitals like London, Hong Kong, and beyond, two standout names from Scandinavia grabbed our attention: Tjoget and bird.

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These two iconic venues - respectively nestled in Stockholm and Copenhagen - have long been celebrated as not just bars, but cultural hubs. Their inclusion on this prestigious list serves as a testament to the thriving bar scene in the Nordic region. More than just a pat on the back for two incredible bars, these mentions reaffirm what many already know: Scandinavia does it best.

Tjoget, with its blend of classic and contemporary styles, and bird, with its soulful, vinyl-driven atmosphere, are prime examples of the region's ability to blend innovation and tradition, crafting spaces that offer unparalleled experiences. Whether you're savouring a meticulously crafted cocktail or basking in the warm glow of acoustic music, both bars capture the essence of Scandinavian hospitality—welcoming, creative, and always ahead of the curve.

For a city crawling with so many quality drink spots (at least in our opinion), it felt practically illegal that Stockholm was overlooked in the crowning of the bars in the world. Well, breathe a sigh of relief, as, with the release of The World's 50 Best Bars extended list, beloved Södermalm hotspot Tjoget enters the world stage at number 76.

Tucked away, mere meters from Hornstull station, the bar, which opened in 2012, sees itself, first and foremost, as a neighbourhood spot. Conceptually rooted in the Mediterranean, the venue splits into 5 unique sections: the dining room, chambre séparée, wine bodega, beer café, and the world-renowned cocktail bar.

Whilst the bar, of course, serves a myriad of classic cocktails, it boasts its ability to add a characteristic twist of flavours and fragrances deriving from southern Europe, northern Africa, and the Middle East. Dabble in their seasonal staples, take in the Tjorget classics, or keep it casual with a dirty martini – here, the world is your oyster (which they coincidentally serve in the dining room).

And what is a bar without music? Not one to keep the same stagnant atmosphere, Tjoget is constantly home to some of the best local DJs Stockholm has to offer, as well as host to fashion parties, art exhibitions and many more vibrant events.

Whilst we may wish it to remain as Stockholm's worst-kept secret, to not share it with the world could be considered selfish. For a vibrant spot to start your evening or an excellent place to stay all night, Tjoget has you covered.

Making an impressive jump from number 77 to 66 on the list, bird in Copenhagen is proof that consistency and creativity go hand in hand. This small yet stylish bar isn't just a place to grab a drink; it's an experience brimming with soul, charm, and an unwavering commitment to music.

Unlike many bars that focus on the performativity of mixing drinks, bird takes a bold, unique approach. In a bid for both flavour consistency and speed, the bar bottles all of its current cocktails, ensuring that every guest gets the same high-quality drink, no matter the time of day or night. But what sets bird apart from the mundane is its ever-evolving nature; every month, the menu undergoes a refreshing overhaul, keeping patrons on their toes and offering something unexpected with every visit.

Bird also stands as a sanctuary for those seeking a truly acoustic environment. The bar is free from digital playlists, and every note that fills the air comes directly from vinyl records, pumped through custom speakers, to retain the retro quality. This dedication to the analogue fosters a warm, intimate atmosphere where music becomes more than just background noise; it becomes an integral part of the experience. Whether it's jazz, soul, or a diverse range of genres, the melodies echo through the space, subtly guiding and enhancing the curated mood.

Guests are welcomed into a space where both the drinks and the music are crafted to perfectly complement each other, creating a soothing, communal vibe that has earned bird a devoted following. In a place where the rhythm of the music, consistency of the cocktails, and friendly atmosphere seamlessly blend, an unforgettable experience awaits.