The Speakeasy at San Ysidro Ranch named one of the world’s best hotel bars | News
The Speakeasy at the legendary San Ysidro Ranch, a Ty Warner property, was named one of the World’s Best Hotel Bars in Forbes Travel Guide’s (“FTG”) 2026 list of Hotel Star Bars. One of only five bars in the United States to earn this distinction, The Speakeasy joins an elite collection of 37 hotel bars recognized as among the top destinations for cocktail culture worldwide.
This year’s winners, spanning 18 countries, were identified using data collected as part of FTG’s 2026 Star Ratings, based on incognito inspections worldwide. The bars featured on the list excel in scores for their beverage program and presentation, but also offer seamless, luxurious service, an exceptional guest experience and a unique atmosphere and ambiance.
“We are honored that The Speakeasy is recognized as one of the world’s leading hotel bars,” said Ian Williams, general manager of San Ysidro Ranch. “This distinction reflects the passion and creativity of our beverage team, while strengthening the legacy of excellence that has made the Ranch an enduring icon of luxury hospitality. Guided by the vision and stewardship of our owner, Ty Warner, we remain committed to preserving the Ranch’s storied heritage while continually enhancing the guest experience through unparalleled hospitality and culinary innovation.”
Hidden behind a discreet door just below the renowned Stonehouse Restaurant, The Speakeasy transports guests to a moody, jazz-infused retreat where vintage glamor meets modern indulgence. The intimate space pays tribute to iconic speakeasies around the world through expertly crafted cocktails, ultra-rare spirits and distinctive tableside presentations for a touch of theatrical flair. Notable highlights include the exceptionally rare Glenturret 50 Year Old Highland Single Malt, housed in a striking Lalique black crystal decanter, the only bottle available for tasting in North America; the Macallan M trio; and Balvenie DCS Chapter Four Series, a rare whiskey collection available exclusively at San Ysidro Ranch. For an unforgettable show, the interactive absinthe tableware includes a traditional table fountain. New for summer, The Speakeasy has introduced an inventive new cocktail menu featuring everything from a ceremonial-grade Matcha Mar-Tea-Ni to an elevated tableside martini service, reflecting the growing demand for experience-driven drinking rituals.
The honor reinforces San Ysidro Ranch’s reputation as one of the world’s most celebrated luxury boutique hotels, adding to an extraordinary list of accolades, including recognition by the MICHELIN Guide, the World’s 50 Best Hotels, Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List, the Boutique Hotel Awards’ World’s Best Romantic Hotel, Forbes Travel Guide’s 5-Star Award and Travel + Leisure, which recently named the property one of the World’s 100 Best Resorts has exclaimed.
Beyond The Speakeasy, San Ysidro Ranch guests can explore 550 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds and gardens, retreat to one of 38 vine-covered cottages, enjoy a 16,000-bottle Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning wine cellar, home to some of the rarest wines in the world, including a 138-vintage collection of Château d’Yquem from 1811 to 2008, with a hidden tasting room, dine at the Stonehouse Restaurant or unwind in the storybook-inspired Salon & Spa.
For more information about San Ysidro Ranch, visit www.sanysidroranch.com. To view the complete list of 2026 Hotel Star Bars award winners, visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.
