Poblacion’s Crown Jewel: The Spirits Library Debuts on Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026 Extended List
MANILA, Philippines — The local cocktail scene has another major reason to celebrate. The Spirits Library, a beloved literary-themed speakeasy tucked away in the vibrant nightlife district of Poblacion, Makati, has officially made its debut on the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026 Extended List.
Securing the No. 98 spot, the Makati-based establishment stands proud as the sole Philippine representative on this year’s 51–100 ranking, putting Manila back on the map of the region's elite cocktail capitals.
Released on July 14, 2026, the 51–100 extended list is compiled by the Asia’s 50 Best Bars Academy. The academy is an influential, gender-balanced panel of more than 300 industry leaders, including top bartenders, bar owners, drinks journalists, and regional culinary experts.
While the main Top 50 rankings are scheduled to be announced at a live gala on July 28, 2026, at the Wynn Palace in Macau, the extended list serves as a crucial barometer for where the region’s drinking culture is heading.
For The Spirits Library, which opened its doors in 2019, the recognition marks a triumphant milestone. The bar is celebrated for its imposing, two-story backbar lined with rare, vintage bottles, antique glassware, and bookish, Art Deco-inspired decor.
"Expect charming antiques, fine glassware and a seriously good sip of something older than yourself," the 50 Best Academy noted, praising the bar's chic, classy gentlemen's club atmosphere.
What to Order: The Famous Drinks
The Spirits Library operates on a dual philosophy: offering a curated, theatrical list of house signatures alongside a highly customized, conversation-driven experience.
Saranggola: One of the bar's beloved local staples. Named after the Tagalog word for "kite," this nostalgic cocktail blends benchmark bourbon with Campari infused with cucumber, Averna infused with dried mango, and a splash of lemon.
Dirty Sorbetes: A playful nod to the classic Filipino street ice cream. It features local Luisita Oro rum shaken with ube halaya (purple yam jam), cheese liqueur, and milk for a rich, creamy finish.
Albularyo: Named after traditional Filipino folk healers. This earthy, mystical cocktail features Tanqueray 10, grapefruit bitters, and the bar's in-house "shaman cordial."
Avoid This: A cheeky crowd-favorite that patrons simply cannot resist ordering. It features a crisp gin base infused with aromatic Chinese seven-spice and finished with a dramatic mist of absinthe.
The Omakase Experience ("Bartender’s Choice"): The ultimate calling card of the bar. Guests can pull up a stool, strike up a conversation about their mood, favorite flavor profiles, or preferred spirits, and watch the bartenders craft a completely bespoke, off-menu creation on the spot.
Over the past decade, a new generation of independent bars has redefined Manila's nightlife, shifting the spotlight from hotel lounges to independent, narrative-driven spaces.
With the main 1–50 list set to be revealed later this month, the local bar community is keeping its fingers crossed to see if other Philippine establishments will represent the country in the top tier. But for now, the team behind the bar has every reason to celebrate.
"To our guests for coming back, for trusting us with your drinks, and for making this room what it is every single night. Without you, there is no story to tell," the team shared in an emotional statement. "Thank you for allowing us to do what we love, night after night."