Additional Coverage:
- He dropped out of law school in Rome, moved to Hong Kong, and set up an Italian-inspired bar. Now, it’s been crowned the best bar in Asia. (businessinsider.com)
From Law Books to Barstools: The Unlikely Journey of Lorenzo Antinori
Lorenzo Antinori, the mastermind behind Hong Kong’s Bar Leone, the world’s second-best bar, rarely has time for a drink himself. This 37-year-old Italian entrepreneur poured his passion into creating a vibrant homage to his roots, and the world has taken notice. Twice.
Bar Leone, established in 2019, quickly ascended the ranks of the cocktail world, earning the coveted second-place spot on the World’s 50 Best Bars list in both 2024 and 2025, a testament to its unique blend of Italian charm and top-notch hospitality.
Antinori’s path to bar ownership was anything but straightforward. Trading law books for a one-way ticket to Australia, he embarked on a series of adventures, from working on a banana farm to bartending in a strip joint. Stints at prestigious establishments like The Savoy in London and the Four Seasons in Seoul followed, solidifying his passion for the hospitality industry.
Hong Kong, initially perceived as a “big amusement park,” eventually won Antinori over with its dynamic blend of urban energy and natural beauty. It was here that he decided to plant his roots and open Bar Leone in the bustling Sheung Wan district.
Stepping into Bar Leone is like stepping into a time capsule of Italian nostalgia. Photos of iconic Italian actors, football teams, and composer Ennio Morricone adorn the walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The menu boasts “cocktail populari” (cocktails for the people), featuring innovative concoctions like the Olive Oil Sour, a delightful blend of whiskey, lemon, honey, and olive oil, blended with egg white. And don’t forget the mortadella focaccia, a culinary masterpiece that perfectly complements the drink menu.
Despite Bar Leone’s success, Antinori faces the challenges of Hong Kong’s steep rents and post-pandemic shifts in tourism. He also notes the changing work ethic of the younger generation, making staff retention a continuous effort.
His days are a whirlwind of activity, starting with emails at 7 a.m. and ending late in the bar, leaving little time for anything else. “It’s a very, very boring life,” he quips, yet his dedication and passion shine through.
But for Antinori, it’s all worth it. Bar Leone is more than just a bar; it’s a tribute to his family legacy, a continuation of the spirit of his grandmother and aunt’s Café Leon in Rome. And in the heart of Hong Kong, this Italian legacy thrives, one delicious cocktail and perfectly crafted focaccia at a time.