Felice Capasso Wins World’s Best Bartender 2025 in Toronto

Felice Capasso from Norway has been named the World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025 during the prestigious competition held in Toronto on October 3, 2025. This year marked the 16th iteration of the Diageo World Class event, which saw bartenders from 51 countries compete for the coveted title, showcasing their skills and creativity in cocktail preparation.

Capasso, who operates at the Nedre Løkka Cocktailbar in Oslo and is the founder of the Sesto Senso Academy specializing in wine and spirits education, impressed judges with a series of innovative signature cocktails. His win highlights an exceptional journey through various high-stakes challenges designed to test bartending expertise and creativity.

Innovative Challenges Showcase Talent

During the competition, Capasso participated in several unique challenges that required him to reinvent classic cocktails. One notable moment was his reinterpretation of traditional gin cocktails using Johnnie Walker Black Label, creating a drink named Top Notes inspired by the classic French 75. For the Don Julio 1942 challenge, he crafted an aperitif inspired by original AI artwork, reflecting the heritage of tequila.

In another challenge featuring The Singleton, Capasso designed a cocktail experience that included a custom record sleeve inspired by the beloved song “That’s Amore.” This presentation, paired with his signature creation “Between Us,” captivated the panel of expert judges, leading to his ultimate victory.

Capasso expressed his gratitude, stating, “Winning World Class is not just a dream come true. It is a goal I have worked tirelessly to achieve. It’s living proof that if you want something and you work for it, and you never, ever give up, no matter what – you can achieve it.” He also acknowledged the responsibility that comes with the title, emphasizing his commitment to promoting education in spirits and inspiring fellow bartenders.

A Celebration of Bartending Excellence

The event was not just a competition but a celebration of the global cocktail culture. Kevin Delaney, Global Head of World Class, remarked on the significance of the event, noting, “World Class is the ultimate toast to the people who are the beating heart of the hospitality industry.” He highlighted that the program has supported over 450,000 bartenders, fostering innovation and skill development within the community.

The judging panel included notable figures such as Eric Van Beek, the mind behind Mexico City’s acclaimed Handshake Speakeasy, and Monica Berg, co-owner of London’s renowned Tayēr + Elementary. Their expertise ensured a rigorous evaluation of each competitor’s craft, with Ago Perrone, Director of Mixology at the Connaught Bar, praising the event for its role in nurturing new talent and driving industry progress.

Capasso’s achievements include not only the title but also an array of prizes, including a trophy, an all-expenses-paid trip to the next Global Finals, mentorship from industry leaders, and opportunities to serve as a guest bartender at prestigious venues worldwide.

As the 2025 World Class Global Bartender of the Year, Felice Capasso’s journey resonates as an inspiring tale of dedication and passion for the art of bartending. His commitment to excellence and education in spirits is set to influence the next generation of bartenders on a global scale.