Alquímico bar in Cartagena wins global hospitality award

Alquímico, a bar located in a 19th-century mansion in Cartagena, Colombia, has been honored with the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award 2026 by The World’s 50 Best Bars. The establishment, founded by Jean Trinh, is recognized for its high-quality beverages and its deep commitment to community and environmental sustainability.

The bar operates with a focus on social responsibility, sourcing many ingredients from local Colombian communities, such as the coffee regions of Filandia and the Montes de María subregion. This approach aims to support local social projects and environmental reforestation efforts. Additionally, the bar maintains connections with indigenous groups, such as the Embera Chami, who provide handcrafted items used by the staff.

Trinh, a French engineer with Vietnamese roots, moved to Cartagena in 2013. His management style emphasizes hospitality as a form of service rooted in connection and community support, a philosophy that previously earned the bar the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award in 2020.