A bar in Cariff has been named among the best in the world.

The Pinnacle Guide has revealed a range of new ‘Pinned Bars’ which have been added to its list of the ‘World’s Best Cocktail Bars’.

The guide assesses bars against eight areas of excellence including drinks, community and hospitality.

This comes following a rigorous self-application process and anonymous in-bar reviews.

Bars can receive one, two or three pins, depending on their level of excellence:

  • One pin – Excellent

  • Two pins – Outstanding

  • Three pins – Exceptional

Lab 22 – located on Caroline Street in Cardiff (CF10 1FG) – is among The Pinnacle Guide’s list of the world’s best bars.

You can see the full list of the World’s Best Cocktail Bars on The Pinnacle Guide website.

Why Lab 22 is among the world’s best bars

Lab 22 is described by The Pinnacle Guide as a “decade-old staple in Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife scene, blending its signature dark, atmospheric charm with an immersive cocktail experience”.

The Cardiff bar is known for its “innovative and interactive” drinks, the experts added.

The Pinnacle Guide explains: “The main menu is crafted to suit a variety of palates, often encouraging guest participation in the experience.

“Cocktails come presented in the likes of bell jars filled with smoke, inviting guests to complete the serve themselves, creating a memorable and tactile moment.

“Other drinks feature interactive garnishes such as flash paper styled as a £50 note that guests are encouraged to set light to using branded matches.”

Each drink on the menu also features at least one Welsh-sourced ingredient, while there is usually a wide selection of Welsh whiskies, gins, vermouth and vodka on offer.

Every drink on the Lab 22 menu features at least one Welsh-sourced ingredient. (Image: Tripadvisor) One of the most celebrated nights at Lab 22 is Moonshine Mondays where the bar turns into a “speakeasy-style” venue for a live jazz night.

On weekends, the bar brings in a resident DJ, while during the week, there is a rotation of “carefully curated” playlists to help set the tone.

The Pinncale Guide adds: “With a mix of hip hop, pop, and indie during the early evening, Lab 22 creates an ever-changing yet familiar atmosphere that welcomes both new visitors and returning regulars alike.”

Another key feature of Lab 22, according to The Pinnacle Guide, is its terrace – a small outdoor space that contrasts with the more moody interior.

The experts explain: “It provides a quieter atmosphere where guests can still feel connected to the venue’s overall vibe.”

Lab 22 also comes highly recommended by visitors, boasting a 4.7 rating (out of 5) on Tripadvisor from 672 reviews (at the time of writing).

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One person commented: “Absolutely stunning cocktails! The bar staff really know what they are talking about and are very friendly.

“Vibe is incredible, and well loved by locals. We were visiting on holiday but were recommended this by 2 separate people in shops.

“Price is quite reasonable for such amazing quality cocktails and it’s nice to be able to support local businesses.”