Lisbon Bars Earn Top Honors at 2025 Cocktail Awards in Madrid

Lisbon bartenders Emanuel Minez and Paulo Gomes have once again brought international attention to Portugal’s cocktail scene after their three Lisbon bars were recognized at the 2025 Top Cocktail Bars awards. The ceremony took place last night in Madrid, where the duo’s venues—Red Frog, Monkey Mash, and 18.68 Cocktail Boutique—were honored among the best bars in Portugal and Spain.

Red Frog, a speakeasy-style bar known for its creative drinks and intimate atmosphere, received three stars at the event. Monkey Mash, which focuses on tropical-inspired cocktails and sustainable practices, was awarded two stars. Their newest venture, 18.68 Cocktail Boutique, made its debut on the Top Cocktail Bars list as a new entry, marking another milestone for the team.

The Top Cocktail Bars awards are considered one of the most respected recognitions in the Iberian Peninsula’s bar industry. The selection process begins with an open application period, followed by public voting to determine nominees. A panel of industry experts then visits each nominated bar to assess mixology skills, service quality, and the overall guest experience before making their final decisions.

Minez and Gomes have been at the forefront of Portugal’s growing reputation in international mixology circles. Their consistent performance at major competitions and awards has helped raise the profile of Portuguese bars on a global scale. Over recent years, Red Frog and Monkey Mash have both received multiple accolades for their innovative approach to cocktails and hospitality.

The recognition in Madrid adds to a series of distinctions that Minez and Gomes have collected throughout their careers. Their success is seen as a driving force behind Lisbon’s emergence as a destination for cocktail enthusiasts from around the world. Industry observers note that their achievements have inspired other local bartenders and contributed to a broader movement elevating Portuguese mixology.

The awards ceremony in Madrid gathered leading figures from Spain and Portugal’s bar communities. Organizers highlighted the importance of creativity, consistency, and guest satisfaction in selecting this year’s winners. According to those involved in the judging process, Minez and Gomes’ bars stood out for their commitment to quality and their ability to deliver memorable experiences.

As Lisbon continues to attract visitors interested in food and drink tourism, the international recognition of its cocktail bars is expected to boost local business and encourage further investment in hospitality. The achievements of Minez and Gomes are widely regarded as evidence of Portugal’s potential to compete with established cocktail capitals across Europe.

With Red Frog, Monkey Mash, and 18.68 Cocktail Boutique now holding prominent places on the Top Cocktail Bars list, Minez and Gomes say they plan to continue developing new concepts while maintaining high standards at their existing venues. Their teams returned from Madrid with renewed motivation to keep pushing boundaries in mixology and service.

The latest awards come at a time when Lisbon’s bar scene is experiencing rapid growth, with new establishments opening regularly and established names gaining international attention. For many in Portugal’s hospitality sector, the success of Minez and Gomes serves as both inspiration and proof that local talent can achieve global recognition through dedication and innovation.