Altos names Bartenders’ Bartender Award winner
Uno Jang, creative director and partner at Jigger & Pony Group in Singapore, has been selected as the winner of the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award 2025.
The award is voted for by bartenders on this year’s list of The World’s 50 Best Bars, which will be revealed at a ceremony in Hong Kong on 8 October. The prize is intended to recognise an individual’s commitment to the international bar community in the past 12 months.
South Korea-born Jang moved to Singapore in 2015 to work in a hotel, before transitioning into the world of cocktails with a role at the now-closed Orgo Bar.
He joined Jigger & Pony in 2017 as a bartender, moving up the ranks and eventually becoming the group’s creative director in 2024. He is said to have played a pivotal role in elevating the bar’s global reputation.
Jang said: “To be recognised by fellow bartenders around the world is such an honour. I couldn’t have achieved this without the collaborations, mentorships and friendships I’ve been fortunate to have over the years. This award belongs just as much to my team at Jigger & Pony, and to the wider community that has supported and inspired me.
“When I moved to Singapore 10 years ago to begin my bartending career, I gave myself the name Uno. To be recognised today, by this community and by my peers around the world, as Uno feels like a dream fulfilled.”
Jang is described as having an ‘innovative’ approach to cocktail programming, which sees him blend creativity and passion for local ingredients with a ‘deep respect for classic technique’.
The judging panel praised him for his ‘deep-rooted culture of collaboration, innovation and inclusivity’ within his teams.
Emma Sleight, head of content for The World’s 50 Best Bars, added: “Uno is without a doubt one of the most approachable, thoughtful and generous people in the industry. He credits his mentors, uplifts his team and fosters a culture of collaboration that makes him beloved not just as a bartender, but as a leader. His unwavering passion for hospitality-first service and his humility in the face of such consistent success mean it is no surprise his peers have chosen him for this coveted award.”
Previous winners of the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award include Iain McPherson, GN Chan and Jean Trinh.
Carlos Andrés Ramirez, global advocacy and PR director for Altos Tequila, commented: “Huge congratulations to Uno Jang from Jigger & Pony in Singapore for receiving the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award at The World’s 50 Best Bars.
“This award is a celebration of Uno’s remarkable journey, not only as a bartender, but as a driving force in shaping the bar community across Asia. His vision, consistency and hospitality excellence have helped define what world-class looks like – and continue to raise the bar for all of us.
“From everyone at Tequila Altos, we salute his achievement and the incredible team behind Jigger & Pony. Here’s to the craft, the people and the stories that move our industry forward. Cheers, Uno – and salud.”
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