The Global Drinker — World Bar Guide
Bee's Knees
Kyoto, Japan
A 16-seat tatami-lined speakeasy in a 100-year-old machiya townhouse; bartenders in suspenders shake gin classics while incorporating Kyoto teas, sansho pepper and house-fermented honey. Vinyl jazz spins on a vintage Technics deck; low lighting reflects off copper barware and a single stained-glass skylight.
Awards & Rankings
- Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 — #76
- Top 500 Bars 2025 — #277
- Asia's 50 Best Bars 2024 — #34
- Asia's 50 Best Bars 2023 — #44
- Asia's 50 Best Bars 2022 — #47
- Asia's 50 Best Bars 2021 — #18