SIPS — Bar Review | Condé Nast Traveler
"First impression? If you're walking in the door, chances are you have been standing outside in line for quite some time. SIPS was named the number one bar in the world by 50 Best in 2023 , turning what was already a popular spot into a place of pilgrimage for cocktail lovers. And deservedly so. Once inside, the vibe is upbeat and lively but—thanks to a strict all-seating policy—it never gets chaotic or hectic. How’s the crowd? Global fame has turned SIPS into a must-visit destination. However, due to the aforementioned line outside, a certain level of commitment is required to get in. Most patrons are die-hard cocktail lovers from around the world, who were willing to brave the wait to come here. How are the drinks? There are two types of modern cocktail bars: the ones that are all about the performance, and others that let the booze do the talking; SIPS belongs to the latter category. That’s not to say that SIPS co-founders Simone Caporale and Marc Álvarez take presentation any less seriously—but the overall experience focuses more on storytelling than theatrics. Like the complex, blood-red Primordial, made from whisky, Port and nashi pear, served in a pair of metal hands, representing the primordial human drinking tool. Or the refreshing Krypta that comes in an oval-shaped, greenery-adorned vessel with an opening that drinkers must place over their nose and mouth to breathe in the fresh herbaceous scent while sipping. These are flavors that will stay with you long after you have rolled back out into the street. If there’s food, is it worth ordering something to eat? A full bar menu featuring everything from olives to a deeply satisfying serving of pâté en croûte, a decadent French-style pâté wrapped in a flaky pastry dough. Did the staff do you right? Caporale and Álvarez run a tight ship and their staff seem to take as much pride in their creations as they do. Wrap it up: what are we coming here for? SIPS has been named the number one bar in the world with good reason. If you only visit one cocktail joint in Barcelona, make it this one." - Isabelle Kliger
