NYC’s Bar Leone vs. Hong Kong’s World’s Best: Copycat or Coincidence?

The buzz is real in New York City, where a new cocktail destination has sparked immediate curiosity and debate among locals and industry insiders alike. During a recent dinner, the excitement was palpable when a guest revealed that Bar Leone had officially opened its doors in Lower Manhattan on September 10.

For those unfamiliar with the name, Bar Leone is not just another bar; it is a global phenomenon. The original establishment, located on Bridges Street in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, was launched in 2023 by renowned Italian bartender Lorenzo Antinori. Its reputation skyrocketed rapidly, earning the title of Asia’s Best Bar twice (2024-5) by the prestigious 50 Best list, and currently holding the crown as the World’s Best Bar.

The brand’s expansion strategy has been equally impressive. Last year, they opened a second location in Shanghai’s Huangpu district, and in March, their team served cocktails at the invite-only Governors Ball, the official after-party for the Oscars. This high-profile presence naturally leads to speculation about international growth.

Given the identical naming convention, the shared burgundy color scheme, and the distinctive motif of a 2D lion holding a tray of cocktails, it is easy to assume this is part of the Hong Kong empire's global rollout. However, despite these striking visual and thematic similarities, Hong Kong’s Bar Leone has officially stated it has no connection with the New York-based venue. This raises intriguing questions about branding, inspiration, and the competitive landscape of NYC’s evolving bar scene.