Tipple

“Work is the curse of the drinking classes.” — Oscar Wilde

Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025: What The New Entrants Reveal About The Future of Cocktail Culture

Nicholas Ng
A50BB2025 | Tipple International | Food For Thought

The 2025 edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards was held at Wynn Palace Macau on 15 July 2025, with Bar Leone from Hong Kong securing the first place for the second consecutive year. This prestigious gathering of Asia’s top bartenders and industry leaders celebrated innovation, creativity, and community across 20 cities, with 20 new bars joining the list. We’ve also listed the current bars’ highest rankings ever in the history of Asia’s 50 Best Bars. Continue reading →

Asia’s 50 Best Bars Lands In Macau This July

Nicholas Ng

Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace will host the tenth edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars from 11 to 19 July 2025. In the lead-up to the main awards night on 15 July, both resorts will present a full week of cocktail-fuelled events, featuring over 25 guest shifts, bar takeovers, chef collaborations, and exclusive pairing dinners. This marks the first time the prestigious awards are held in Macao, further cementing the city’s growing reputation as a cocktail and culinary destination. Continue reading →

Oh Chong Hau Wins Hennessy MyWay Malaysia 2025

Nicholas Ng

At the Hennessy MyWay 2025 Malaysia Championship, Oh Chong Hau of The Nest Cocktail Bar in Penang claimed the national title with a cocktail that told a layered, locally rooted story. Presented at the finals during Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week (KLCW), his winning drink, “The Golden Fondue”, stood out for its bold composition and distinctive narrative. Continue reading →

Taichung Cocktail Camp: Taiwan’s First Outdoor Cocktail Festival

Nicholas Ng
Taichung Cocktail Camp | Food For Thought

The 2025 Taichung Cocktail Camp (TCC) transformed Taichung into the centre of Asia’s cocktail culture, bringing together renowned bartenders, local talent, and industry professionals for a day of mixology, competition, and collaboration. Held at ALIVE Glamping Base, the event combined cocktail craftsmanship, outdoor dining, and interactive experiences, followed by guest shifts across the city, making it an immersive celebration of Taichung’s vibrant drinks scene. Continue reading →

Maison Belle Époque: A Marriage of Perrier-Jouët and Art Nouveau

Nicholas Ng
Jardin | Perrier-Jouët | Food For Thought

A visit to Maison Perrier-Jouët offers an immersive experience that intertwines the rich heritage of champagne craftsmanship with a profound appreciation for Art Nouveau. Founded in 1811 by Pierre-Nicolas Perrier and Rose-Adélaïde Jouët, the house is situated on Épernay’s Avenue de Champagne, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Maison Belle Époque, the meticulously restored former family residence, now serves as a living gallery, showcasing one of Europe’s most extensive private collections of French Art Nouveau. Continue reading →

A Celebration of French Art De Vivre: The Grand Voyage Martell Experience

Nicholas Ng
Signature Martell par AM 3 | Grand Voyage Martell Experience | Food For Thought

The Grand Voyage Martell offers an unparalleled exploration of Maison Martell’s rich history, craftsmanship, and culinary excellence in Cognac, France. This meticulously curated experience allows participants to delve into the heritage and artistry of the world’s oldest major cognac house, founded in 1715 by Jean Martell. From exclusive tastings to bespoke dining, the Grand Voyage  Martell is an immersive journey celebrating the French art de vivre. Continue reading →

The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024: Handshake Speakeasy Crowned

Nicholas Ng
Group Shot | World's 50 Best Bars 2024 | Food For Thought

For the first time in the history of the World’s 50 Best Bars, a bar from Mexico has ascended to the pinnacle of the global cocktail scene, claiming the coveted top spot. This monumental achievement was announced during the prestigious annual awards ceremony which this year took place in the vibrant city of Madrid, Spain. Amidst fierce competition, Handshake Speakeasy, located in the heart of Mexico City, was crowned The World’s Best Bar for 2024, marking a historic moment not only for the venue but also for the Mexican bar industry. Continue reading →

Taipei Bar Guide: Taiwan Can Drink

Nicholas Ng
Taiwan Can Drink Group Shot | Taipei City Guide | Taiwan Can Drink | Food For Thought

Taipei’s bar scene is quickly gaining international recognition, offering a blend of innovation, creativity, and local flavours. From cosy speakeasies hidden behind unmarked doors to futuristic bars pushing the boundaries of mixology, the city has something for every cocktail lover. The vibrant bar culture is fuelled by passionate bartenders and unique venues, each with its own style and signature drinks. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or someone simply looking for a fun night out, Taipei’s bars promise an unforgettable experience. Continue reading →

From Fast Cars to Fine Bubbles: Alexandre Mea’s Champagne Carbon Story

Nicholas Ng
Alexandre Mea Champagne-Carbon | Alexandre Mea | Champagne Carbon | Food For Thought

Champagne Carbon, with its striking carbon fibre bottles, has carved a niche in the luxury champagne market. Alexandre Mea, Founder and CEO, blends his family’s deep-rooted winemaking heritage with cutting-edge design and a passion for innovation. He shares on how his background as a test driver inspired the brand’s identity, how five generations of craftsmanship influence their champagnes, and what makes their bottles more than just packaging. Continue reading →