This category was once more one of the most competitive of all with a vast number of submissions – plus a top-class list of finalists.

To come out on top, as it did, Todd English Pub & Market at Zayed International Airport had to show “true wow factor”. This was built on investment in time, money and people, a drinks menu with something for everyone, including signature cocktails and mocktails, and performance that has driven excellent average spends since its late 2023 opening.

It was also named Regional Winner for Middle East & Africa, achieving a top rating for its drinks range alongside its gastropub menu, its impeccable design standards and overall execution.

In the Americas & Caribbean Region, judges saluted Brewery X at FAB host Ontario International Airport. Brewery X has developed an innovative joint-venture partnership with the airport, and a location that features a bright, light design, with rustic and simple furnishings and a brilliant canopy created from beer cans. A further partnership with TopGolf provides additional atmosphere, entertainment, fun and surprise.

In Asia Pacific, there were two Regional Winners. The first, Intervals at Hong Kong International Airport, is a premium, lounge-style bar that ticks many boxes in terms of amenities and services and a diverse drinks offer. It also offers one of the greatest settings in the airport world.

The second Asia Pacific award winner – Otherside Brew Lounge by Delaware North atPerth Airport – houses a welcoming beer garden, a great focus on craft products and is a story of local theming and people.

The Europe Regional Winner was BrewDog by SSP UK & Ireland at London Gatwick Airport. It offers “a fun, bright and accessible” range, and an experience that is “on-trend, quirky and mirroring this brand’s off-airport locations”, said the judges.

The first of two highly commendeds in this category was Bottega Prosecco Bar & Craft Beer by Avolta at Zayed International Airport.

This carries a lovely focus on sustainability and creative design, “with an authentic Italian vibe and an interior design to die for”.

The second Highly Commended, O’Regan’s Irish Bar and Restaurant in Dubai, went to a concept that stylishly celebrates a landmark industry figure, indeed the founding father of duty free.