The Speakeasy at San Ysidro Ranch Named One of the World’s Best Hotel Bars
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. As one of only five bars in the United States to earn the distinction, The Speakeasy joins an elite collection of 37 hotel bars recognized among the finest destinations for cocktail culture worldwide.
This year’s honorees, spanning 18 countries, were identified through data gathered as part of FTG’s 2026 Star Ratings, based on incognito inspections globally. The bars named to the list excelled in scores related to their beverage program and presentation, as well as providing seamless, luxurious service, an exceptional guest experience and a unique atmosphere and ambiance.
“We are honored to have The Speakeasy 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 reinforcing 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 elevating the guest experience through unparalleled hospitality and culinary innovation.”
Tucked behind a discreet door just beneath the renowned Stonehouse Restaurant, The Speakeasy transports guests to a moody, jazz-infused hideaway where vintage glamour meets modern indulgence. The intimate space pays homage to iconic speakeasies around the world through expertly crafted cocktails, ultra-rare spirits and distinctive tableside presentations for a touch of theatrical flair. Noteworthy 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 service includes a traditional tableside fountain. New for the summer, The Speakeasy has debuted 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 further cements San Ysidro Ranch’s standing as one of the world’s most celebrated luxury boutique hotels, adding to an extraordinary list of accolades that includes recognition from 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 among the Top 100 Resorts in the World.
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Beyond The Speakeasy, guests at San Ysidro Ranch 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 spanning 1811 to 2008, with a hidden tasting room, dine at the Stonehouse Restaurant or unwind at the storybook-inspired Salon & Spa.
For more information on San Ysidro Ranch, please visit www.sanysidroranch.com. To view the full list of 2026 Hotel Star Bars award winners, visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.