You have asked and so we have delivered! Here you can find where to see all the pictures from of the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards night at the DoubleTree Hilton.
Thanks to everyone for a great night! See you next year!
The winners of the 2025 Scottish Bar & Pub Awards were unveiled on the 26th of August at a glittering, Oscars-themed ceremony held at the Doubletree by Hilton, Glasgow. Celebrating its 30th year, the prestigious event welcomed hundreds of hospitality professionals from across Scotland, with over 100 venues shortlisted as finalists. You can see all the winners pictures below.
Top industry honours went to some of Scotland’s most iconic names. Michele Pagliocca, owner of Monteleone Ltd (The Marlborough, The Butterfly and the Pig, The Buff Club and Singl-End) in Glasgow, received the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Donald MacLeod MBE was recognised with the SHG Contribution to the Industry Award and Buzzworks’ Alison Blair was named Inspirational Woman of the Year.
There were big celebrations in Edinburgh as local venues scooped some of the night’s most coveted titles. Black Ivy was named Hotel Scotland Hotel Bar of the Year, Hey Palu claimed the Brugal 1888 Cocktail Bar of the Year, and The Athletic Arms took home the title of Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year.
It was a double win for Encore Bars, with Freddy’s picking up Fireball Best Late Night Venue, and owner Edward Fox receiving the Black Ivy and Montpeliers Rising Star Entrepreneur Award.
The night even saw individual successes celebrated, with Jane Ross (The Mother Superior) awarded the Deanston Whisky Guru Rising Star Award, Gavin Ruthven (The Dome) named HOSPO Manager of the Year, and Toby Peters (The Cocktail Geeks) shaking things up to win Schweppes Mixologist of the Year.
In Midlothian, The Original Rosslyn Inn was recognised as the DRAM Dog Friendly Pub of the Year, celebrating its warm welcome to both guests and their four-legged friends.
The celebrations continued in Glasgow, where Berlinkys was awarded the DRAM New Bar of the Year, Kitty O’Shea’s took home the Jameson Best Irish Bar title, and MacSorley’s proudly received the highly sought-after Sunday Mail Pub of the Year award.
Dundee enjoyed a successful night, with Draffens honoured with the De Kuyper Award for Cocktail Excellence in Neighbourhood Venues, and The Phoenix receiving the Staropramen Award for Outstanding Quality.
In Fife, Hugos Bar and Pavilion celebrated a second consecutive win, this time taking home the DRAM Best Beer Garden award, while The Criterion in St Andrews received the Inverarity Morton Best Drinks Offering trophy.
Elsewhere across Scotland, The Newton Bar in Millport was named DRAM Community Pub of the Year, The Birds and Bees in Stirling earned the Jump Ship Brewing Gastropub of the Year title, Lochy’s in Barrhead took the Sims Automatics Sports Bar of the Year award, and Aimee Ashworth from Dishoom was honoured with the Campari Bar Apprentice 2025 accolade.
Two industry giants also made their mark on the night. Apex Hotels showcased their commitment to staff wellbeing by winning the Hospitality Health Employer of the Year award, while the formidable Bucks Bar Group took home the Favela Independent Multiple Operator Award.
Special recognition was given to Fiona Joyce of the Solway Lodge in Gretna, who received the Unsung Hero award, and Lorraine Ferguson from Billy Bridges in Ayr, who was named Bar Personality of the Year. Both women have dedicated over 20 years to their venues, embodying the passion and loyalty at the heart of Scotland’s hospitality industry.
Susan Young organiser and Editor of industry publication DRAM, who also received a surprise award said, “It was fantastic to see so many deserving winners this year. These awards are a celebration of the people who make the Scottish hospitality industry the success it is, and this year’s entries were truly outstanding. Over the past 30 years, we’ve hosted some incredible events, and this was certainly one of the best. Every finalist deserves recognition for the exceptional venues they operate and should be immensely proud of their achievements.
Congratulations to each and every one of them!”
Lifetime AchievementMichele Pagliocca – Montelone Ltd, Glasgow
Benromach Whisky Bar of the YearWinner: Athletic Arms, Edinburgh
Winner: Hey Palu, Edinburgh
Winner: The Original Rosslyn Inn, Roslin
Highly Commended: The Anchorage – Dunure
Winner: Aimee Ashworth, Dishoom
Highly Commended: Cameron Evans, The Lynnhurst
De Kuyper Award for Cocktail Excellence in Neighbourhood VenuesWinner: Draffens, Dundee
Highly Commended: The Corner House, Kilwinning
Deanston Whisky Guru Rising Star AwardWinner: Jane Ross – The Mother Superior, Edinburgh
Winner: Bucks Bar Group
Highly Commended: Rocks Leisure Group
Winner: Freddy’s, Edinburgh
Hospitality Health Employer of The YearWinner: Apex Hotels
Highly Commended: Lisini Pub Co
Winner: Gavin Ruthven, The Dome
Hotel Scotland Hotel Bar of the YearWinner: Black Ivy, Edinburgh
Unsung HeroFiona Joyce – Solway Lodge Hotel, Gretna
Fiona Joyce – Solway Lodge Hotel, Gretna
Bar Personality of The YearLorraine Ferguson – Billy Bridges, Ayr
Inverarity Morton Best Drinks OfferingWinner: The Criterion, St Andrews
Winner: Hugo’s bar & Pavilion, Dalgety Bay
Jameson Best Irish Bar 2025Winner: Kitty O’Shea’s, Glasgow
Jump Ship Brewing Gastro Pub Of The Year 2025
Winner: The Birds & Bees, Stirling
Highly Commended: Crown & Anchor Inn – Findhorn
Community Pub of the YearWinner: The Newton Bar, Millport
Best New Bar 2025
Winner: Berlinkys, Glasgow
Schweppes Mixologist of The YearWinner: Toby Peters, The Cocktail Geeks
Sims Automatic Sports Bar of The YearWinner: Lochy’s, Barrhead
Contribution to the Industry AwardDonald MacLeod MBE
Inspirational Woman of the YearAlison Blair – Buzzworks, Ayrshire
Staropramen Award for Outstanding QualityWinner: The Phoenix, Dundee
Sunday Mail Pub of the YearWinner: MacSorleys, Glasgow
Last year set the bar sky-high, with stand-out winners like The Smokin’ Fox in Glasgow (Sunday Mail Pub of the Year), Tempura in Ayr (Casual Dining Award), Forbes of Kingennie (Family Business of the Year), Malones Aberdeen (Jameson Best Irish Bar) and Teuchters Landing in Edinburgh (Inverarity Morton Best Drinks Offering). Now, the search is on again and organisers are excited to hear who your favourites are for 2025!
It’s not just about the pubs – it’s also about the people behind the pints! From whisky wizards and rising stars to standout bar managers shaking up the scene, the awards shine a spotlight on the personalities powering Scotland’s licensed trade. And with Schweppes on the hunt for a ‘Mixologist of the Year,’ it’s time to nominate those who stir, shake, and serve with serious flair.
If you’re interested in supporting your much-loved local venue, whether it’s for the lively atmosphere, exceptional food, or outstanding service, your vote can help highlight the pubs that make Scotland’s hospitality scene special. They have to be in it to win it, and your vote could make all the difference.
Voting is quick and easy at www.scottishbarandpubawards.com/awards, where you can back your favourites across multiple categories. But don’t wait – voting closes on the 14th of June. Finalists will be revealed soon after with the judges then hitting the road for mystery visits across the country. The winners will be crowned at a glittering Oscar themed ceremony in Glasgow on August 26th!
Event organiser, Susan Young, reflected on the milestone, saying ““Over the past 30 years, we’ve seen some incredible talent recognised at the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards and this year will be no different!
“Despite the challenges, hospitality remains one of Scotland’s most vibrant and rewarding industries. It’s a real privilege to shine a spotlight on the passionate people working hard behind the scenes in some of the country’s best-loved venues – that’s what these awards are all about! I hope their customers make the effort to vote for pubs, bars, restaurants and staff that make hospitality special.”
The full list of categories includes Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year, Brugal 1888 Cocktail Bar of the Year, Caledonia Inns & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur, DRAM Dog Friendly Pub of the Year, Campari Bar Apprentice 2025, De Kuyper Award for Cocktail Excellence in Neighbourhood Venues, Deanston Whisky Guru Rising Star Award, Favela Independent Multiple Operator of the Year, Fireball Best Late Night Venue, Hospitality Health Employer of the Year, HOSPO Manager of the Year, Inverarity Morton Best Drinks Offering, Jameson Best Irish Bar, Schweppes Mixologist of the Year, Sims Automatics Sports Bar of the Year, Staropramen Award for Outstanding Quality, DRAM Best Beer Garden, Jump Ship Brewing Gastropub of the Year, New Bar of the Year and Pub of the Year.
For a full list of this years categories and to vote please go to: www.scottishbarandpubawards.com/awards/
entrysbpa@mediaworldltd.com and tell us your nominations and why they should win.
https://www.facebook.com/scottish.bar.pub.awards/ https://www.instagram.com/scottishbarpubawards/
Nicola Walker – nicolawalker@mediaworldltd.com
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Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year: The Piper Whisky Bar, Glasgow
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Brugal Best Cocktail Bar of the Year: The Absent Ear, Glasgow
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Campari Bar Apprentice 2024: Finlay Paterson – Scotts South Queensferry
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The time has come to reveal the most of the finalists for the 2024 Scottish Bar and Pub Awards. There will be no news on the Sunday Mail nominees until this Sunday with the finalists being revealed the following week. Our Campari Bar Apprentice programme takes place on Monday and we will reveal the candidates then and so many of you have put forward your manager for the HOSPO Manager of the Year accolade that it is taking a bit longer to interview them. It has certainly been a bumper year for entries so congratulations to everyone who has made it to the finals.
The finalist are:
| The Absent Ear | Glasgow |
| Kelvingrove Café | Glasgow |
| Nightcap | Edinburgh |
| The White House | Inverness |
Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year| The Malt Room | Inverness |
| The Piper Whisky Bar | Glasgow |
| The Pot Still | Glasgow |
| Tipsy Midgie Whisky Bar | Edinburgh |
Campari Bar Apprentice of the Year 2024Coming next week!
Black Ivy & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year| Shandy Martin – Dizzy Izzy’s | Edinburgh |
| Alex & Rachel Palumbo – Hey Palu | Edinburgh |
| Iain Reid – The Tap Yard | Glasgow |
| Jane Ross – The Mother Superior | Edinburgh |
Cold Town Craft Beer Bar of The Year| The Craftsman Company | Aberdeen |
| The Raven | Edinburgh |
| Salt Horse Beer Shop & Bar | Edinburgh |
| Shilling Brewing Co. | Glasgow |
Deanston Whisky Guru 2024| Dom Cummings |
| Colin Hinds |
| Gillian Kirkland |
| Jane Ross |
| Viki Stevenson |
| Cru Holdings |
| Kilderkin Group |
| Malones Irish Bars |
| The Rocks Leisure Group |
| The Blue Blazer | Edinburgh |
| The Craw’s Nest | Carnoustie |
| The Ship | Irvine |
| The Torfin | Edinburgh |
| Fowwaz Ansari – Bittersweet |
| John Clark – The White House |
| Johnny Morrison – VEGA |
| Carrie Smith – Hoot The Redeemer |
| The Boathouse | Isle of Gigha |
| Bucks Bar | Glasgow |
| Our Place Annan | Annan |
| Tempura | Ayr |
Favela Lager Latin American Venue of The Year| Boteco Do Brasil | Glasgow |
| El Santo | Glasgow |
| Joao’s Place | Edinburgh |
| Topolabamba | Glasgow |
Hospitality Health Employer of The Year 2024| Apex Hotels |
| Buzzworks Holdings |
| Manorview Hotels |
| Signature Pub Group |
Coming next week!
Inverarity Morton Scotland’s Best Drinks Offering| The Allison Arms | Glasgow |
| Killiecrankie House | Killiecrankie |
| Malo – Wine & Negroni Bar | Glasgow |
| Teuchters Landing | Edinburgh |
Jameson Best Irish Bar| Kitty O’Shea’s | Glasgow |
| Malones Aberdeen | Aberdeen |
| O’Marley’s | Dundee |
| Waxy O’Connors | Glasgow |
Kopparberg New Bar of The Year| Brunswick Book Club | Edinburgh |
| Encore | Edinburgh |
| The Physician | St Andrews |
| The Stravaig | Ayr |
Molinari Hotel Bar of The Year| Cask and Clyde (DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central) | Glasgow |
| Chop Grill & Bar (Sandman Signature Aberdeen Hotel) | Aberdeen |
| Hazel (AC Hotel Glasgow) | Glasgow |
| Lochrin Rooftop Bar (Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge) | Edinburgh |
| W Lounge (W Edinburgh) | Edinburgh |
Schweppes Bartender of The Year| Joseph Clancy – The Laurieston Bar | Glasgow |
| Hayden Fenton – Tarragon by Graham Mitchell | Aberdeen |
| Lucy George – Lucky Liquor Co. | Edinburgh |
| Marquis Smith – Stravaigin | Glasgow |
Sims Automatic Sports Bar of The Year| Fullbacks Sports & Pizza Bar | Milngavie, Glasgow |
| Hope & Vincent | Glasgow |
| Muligans Ayr | Ayr |
| The Tap Yard | Glasgow |
Media World Best Outdoor Area 2024| Black Ivy | Edinburgh |
| Cold Town House | Edinburgh |
| The Fox & Willow | Ayr |
| Outboard by Scotts | South Queensferry |
Staropramen Award for Outstanding Quality| Brewhemia | Edinburgh |
| The Guildford Arms | Edinburgh |
| Hugo’s Bar & Pavilion | Dalgety Bay |
| The Raeburn | Edinburgh |
Hotel Scotland Family Business of The Year 2024| The Ball Room Sports Bars |
| Forbes of Kingennie Country Resort |
| Vittoria Group |
| The Waterside Bistro |
Sunday Mail Pub of The YearLast 10 revealed on Sunday, finalists on the 18th,,,
Sunday Mail Pub of the Year
Dram Lifetime Achievement
Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue
Flora de Cana Sustainability Award
Makers Mark Cocktail Bar of The Year
MediaWorld Casual Dining Award
HOSPO Manager of the Year
Deanston Whisky Guru
ARO Customer Service Award
Sheep Dog Dog Friendly
Buzzworks Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of The Year
Campari Mixologist of The Year
The Drum Digital Innovator 2023
Dram Hospitality Employer 2023
Edrington Giving Back Award
Hotel Scotland Family Business of the Year
Molinari Hotel Bar of The Year
Premier Card Services Independent Operator
William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice of The Year
Edinburgh pub entrepreneur Billy Lowe got an extra birthday present when he scooped the Lifetime Achievement Award at Tuesday’s Scottish Bar and Pub Awards, formerly known as the DRAM Awards, on his actual birthday! The award recognised his 35 years at the top of the licensed trade.
Said DRAM publisher Susan Young, “Billy Lowe is arguably Scotland’s most successful licensed trade entrepreneur. Having created three very successful pub companies and operated more than 30 pubs over the decades, he still remains at the helm of Caledonia Inns, which includes the award-winning Black Ivy.”
The latter also won the Drinks Express Best Outdoor Area award.
He received his award in front of more than 600 industry peers at a glittering 80s Film themed awards ceremony at the Doubletree Hilton in Glasgow.
Following his win, Billy said, “It was a complete surprise, and I was delighted that the whole family was there to see it! For me, to be recognised alongside the deserving people who have won this award before, people that I truly admire, was such an honour.”
The event saw 30 awards presented to both venues and individuals from all around Scotland spanning from Our Place in Annan which picked up the Media World Casual Dining Award, to Inverness-based Prime which grabbed the ARO Procurement Customer Service Award.
Organiser Susan Young said, “The Scottish licensed trade is full of successful entrepreneurs and as a result we have some of the best pubs and venues in the UK. These awards recognise and celebrate the efforts of the owners and their employees that give Scotland a hospitality industry that is worth shouting about. I take my hat off to all of them.”
Now in their 28th year, the awards are a highlight in the hospitality industry calendar and this year over 100 finalists attended the ceremony at the Double Tree Hilton Glasgow Central – making it the biggest event yet!
Aberdeen were big winners on the night as Malones scooped the Sunday Mail Pub of the Year award! The celebrations continued for the city as Scott Anderson of Siberia Bar & Hotel won THE DRUM Digital Innovator of the Year, Adrian Gomes of The Tippling House won Campari Mixologist of the Year and Bryony Baxter of Meraki Bar and Restaurant was named as William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice of the Year.
In Edinburgh there was a double celebration for the Tipsy Midgie and owner Colin Hinds who took home both Benromach’s Whisky Bar of the Year and the Deanston Whisky Guru gongs!
Hey Palu was named the Makers Mark Cocktail Bar of the Year, Stramash as Pernod Ricard Best Late-Night Venue and Brewhemia as Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year!
A special mention went to The Original Rosslyn Inn who were honoured with the Golden Jubilee Award for Hospitality to celebrate their 50th year of business.
Meanwhile, in Glasgow winners included local favourites St Lukes & The Winged Ox for Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue, the WORQ Group for Premier Card Services Independent Operator of the Year and Graham Chalmers of Radisson RED who won the inaugural Edrington UK Giving More Award for his amazing charitable contributions.
Gillian Kirkland of The Piper Whisky Bar was deservedly crowned Inspirational Woman of the Year, Rory McGinley of Two Fat Ladies at The Buttery was named HOSPO Manager of the Year and Sportsterz Pete Harvey was stunned to receive his Bar Personality of the Year award!
A special ‘Heart of Hospitality’ award was also given to Bucks Bar owner Michael Bergson for being such a great voice for the licensed trade industry.
The Lisini Pub Company were recognized for their amazing sustainability work, winning the Flor de Cana Rum Sustainability Award and Baillieston’s The East End Fox snapped up the trophy for Kopparbergs New Bar of the Year.
In Ayrshire, industry giants Buzzworks took home the Hospitality Employer of the Year gong, the Fox and Willow won Inverarity Morton Scotland’s Best Drinks Offering and Brandon Van Rensburg, owner of the Tempura chain, walked away as Buzzworks & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year.
Other winners from the west included Great Scots Bar in the Cameron House that were awarded Molinari’s Hotel Bar of the Year, The Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha that won Hotel Scotland Family Business of the Year, and Aberfoyle’s The Forth Inn that scooped the prize for Sheep Dog Whisky Dog Friendly Pub of the Year.
Falkirk’s Brian Flynn, owner of Behind The Wall, was named Licensee of the Year and The Scottish Hospitality Group awarded its Special Recognition Award to Caroline Louden of TLT LLP.
The full list The full list of winners are here along with pictures of them picking up their awards on the night and you can browse some more pictures below.
The Scottish Bar and Pub Awards is 28 years old this year. It’s hard to believe!
Over the years it has evolved but so has the hospitality industry. Our ethos was always about recognising great venues and applauding the people who put their heart and soul into running their businesses. This year is no different.
But we also want to entertain you. The trade spends all year looking after customers and this is an opportunity to celebrate all that is good and great about this industry, meet up with friends old and new, and have fun with colleagues.
This trade can adapt and does, it is resilient and forward-thinking as well as entrepreneurial – so let’s celebrate and how better to do this than get your customers, reps and staff voting for you. You can also nominate your pub, bar, hotel or restaurant, staff or employers, but please encourage your customers to get in on the act too.
I am delighted to announce that this year’s event, will take place on the 29th August at The Doubletree Hilton in Glasgow. Many thanks to all our sponsors and, of course, there will be our usual surprises not least our Lifetime Achievement Award. So put the date in your diary.
You have got to be in it to win it… so let’s create a noise – get your customers voting for you – and if you need any social branding let us know. There’s also the accolade Sunday Mail Pub of the Year to go for.
Voting is now closed. Thanks for all the votes! You can check out the voting categories here.
Sheep Dog Whiskey Friendly Pub of The YearSheep Dog Whiskey are hunting for a pub that provides a welcome for pet dogs. Do you know a pub or bar that allow customers to bring their friendly pooches inside? Do they provide a water bowl and the occasional treat? If so, they could be in the running for this accolade. Judges will be bringing their own dogs on mystery visits (volunteers are queuing up!!) If you think you know a pub or hotel that fits the bill – enter it now and if you think you are the most Dog-Friendly Pub in Scotland get your customers voting! The two-legged variety!
ARO Procurement Customer Service AwardCustomer service is paramount when it comes to running a successful business. Aro Procurement is on the lookout for a pub, restaurant or hotel which fully embraces the customer service ethos. Do you know a business that does this? If so, they could be eligible for this Award. Judges will look at the measures that are in place to ensure staff are well trained in customer service. Short listing will be done by Mystery Shoppers and if necessary this will be followed up with a meeting with the judges. If you want to put a nomination in, voting opens.
Campari Mixologist of the YearBenromach Whisky Bar of the YearBenromach is a traditional Speyside distillery, intent on making single malt the right way with true character. They keep things simple. A handful of distillers relying entirely on expertise and senses to make the finest handmade whisky; Speyside single malt matured exclusively in first-fill casks, with a subtly smoky character. Now Benromach is looking to crown a bar ‘Whisky Bar of the Year’. Each Benromach whisky has its own character, and this year they are looking for a bar with true character and staff with a passion and enthusiasm for whisky, who are able to engage with their whisky-loving customer base. Is your bar the one? Or do you know of a bar worthy of the crown? Nominate it for the Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year when voting opens.
Buzzworks & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the YearBuzzworks and Montpeliers are partnering to offer one emerging entrepreneur the opportunity to be mentored by one of the industry’s most experienced and successful individuals over a twelve-month period. Are you successful already, but would hugely benefit from great operational and financial advice, to allow your business to grow to the next level? If so let us know what you think you would benefit. All candidates will be interviewed too.
Deanston Whisky Guru 2023Are you passionate about all things whisky, with a bold and industrious spirit? Do you love to share your whisky knowledge with your colleagues and customers, but dare to do things a bit differently? Or do you know someone that inspires you when it comes to whisky, with their hard work, optimism and authenticity? This category, ‘Whisky Guru of the Year’, is for people who not only have a great knowledge of whisky but are bold and fearless educators and advocates, with a real passion for craft. It is open to all on-trade employees or employers whether in the bar, pub, restaurant or hotel industry.
Premier Card Services Independent Operator Of The YearPremier Card Services Scotland , the company which represents Dojo– the small business card machine provider, is on the lookout for Scotland’s top Independent Operator. You don’t have to be the biggest, but you do have to show that you are dynamic and forward thinking with a taste for growth and expansion. Good operators know how to identify new opportunities, innovate, and adapt to changing market trends, and by doing so their businesses remain competitive and relevant. Can you relate to that? Technology such as Dojo can also help you improve your customer experience – do you use technology to its full effect? If you think you fit the criteria or you know a group that does… enter when voting opens.
Customers now embrace wining and dining outside, whether they have just popped out for a beer or a cocktail. This award will go to the pub, bar, restaurant or bar that has created an exceptional outdoor space which enhances the customer experience. It’s not just about the way your outside area looks, its about the service element too and ease of ordering, and about demonstrating how your space is contributing to the success of your business. If you know a great outdoor space, or you have one, make sure to vote when voting opens.
Giving More is deep rooted in Edrington’s DNA. Whether this is to their people, consumers, customers or communities – their central purpose is giving. The founders of Edrington, the Robertson sisters, also established the Robertson Trust which is Scotland’s largest independent grant-making charitable trust. This inaugural award has been created to celebrate and reward those in the hospitality industry who have the same ethos of Giving More. Those who have went above and beyond to give more to either their community in which they operate, their customers, or to their employees. This may include volunteering or providing a community service or looking after the welfare of employees. We’d love to hear who you think deserves this accolade. You can nominate your colleagues, people that you know or businesses that you think deserve this special recognition.
HOSPO Manager of the YearThere are five key characteristics which make a good manager according to HOSPO, Scotland’s only hospitality focused recruitment agency. Trust – the employer trusts a good manager to run their bar, restaurant or hotel with integrity. Passion – a passion for hospitality and the people around them. Flexibility – paying attention to your individual team members requirements and managing the business accordingly. Teamwork – an essential component of running any good business. Development – a thirst to continue personal learning. Do you have a manager that fits the bill or are you one. Don’t be shy!
DRUM Digital Innovator of the YearIt has never been more important to have a clear and ongoing digital strategy and forward thinking hospitality operators have embraced digital. This award aims to recognise that. We are looking for trade businesses that have successfully used the power of social media, digital advertising, and website design to build their brand and connect with customers with the aim of driving footfall to their establishments. How have you managed to keep your business to the forefront. We are looking for creativity and a clear strategy. Let us know why you think you deserve this award.
Flor de Caña Sustainability Award 2023Sustainably crafted premium rum brand, Flor de Caña has not only launched a global Sustainable Cocktail Challenge, but it is also looking for Scotland’s licensed trade Sustainability Champion. Flor de Caña is the world’s only Carbon Neutral and Fair Trade certified spirit, and it continually seeks to promote and reward sustainable, eco conscious practices. It is looking for a Scottish bar, restaurant or hotel that is on the sustainability journey. What are you doing to ensure your business is greener?
Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue 2023Live music is very much part of a vibrant night life, and pubs and bars that invest in live music can be found in most towns and cities in Scotland. Are you one of the best or do you know a live music bar or pub that is the best in Scotland? Hi-Spirits, which offers the on-trade a diverse portfolio of brands such as Southern Comfort, Fireball, Tequila Rose, Buffalo Trace and more, is looking for a bar that has an equally diverse live music offer – whether your music genre is pop, rock, country, or a mix, it’s important that the sound is as good as the ambience. Great service and a quality drink offering are also part and parcel of the offering.
Inverarity Morton Scotland’s Best Drinks OfferingAs a composite wholesaler we are looking for a venue that demonstrates a diverse drink offering, from wine, spirits, beers and softs. Whether you own a bar, restaurant or hotel we are searching for a venue that displays creative forward-thinking and are inclined to think outside of the box when it comes to developing their drinks list. This award is dedicated to a venue that’s bold and daring, just like their drinks offering.
Kopparberg New Bar of the YearKopparberg is on the lookout for Scotland’s best new bar. The Kopparberg team is looking for a bar that has proved to be a success with customers – it doesn’t have to be the most stylish or the biggest, but owners should demonstrate creative forward-thinking and be inclined to think outside of the box when it comes to developing their business. It goes without saying but good customer service and an excellent range of products behind the bar is essential. Do you know a bar, or are you one, that deserves the title?
Media World Casual Dining AwardThere are many great Casual Dining Restaurants in Scotland and this year we seek to recognise those that stand head and shoulders above the competition with our Award for Casual Dining. Do you have a relaxed atmosphere, and serve good value quality food? Are your staff adept at customer service, and do your chefs know how to serve up tantalising, tasty food? Are you family-friendly and customer-focused?
Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the YearMolson Coors is seeking out Scotland’s best Bars, which have been around for at least a year. We’re looking for venues that are a hit with their customers – success can come through great customer service, a beautiful bar environment, stunning food and drink offering or an event calendar that keeps customers flocking back. Operators that offer something special for their locals, or are known for exceptional standards by locals and visitors alike – we are keen to hear from the exceptional teams that make this industry so vibrant and fresh.
Molinari Hotel Bar of the YearMolinari is the Sambucca that Italians love and the brand is looking for a Hotel Bar that you love. A hotel bar that epitomises the best of all things Scottish. Do you know a hotel that offers great service, and activities such as golf, and a bar that allows you to relax – either pre-activity or post activity or are you one? The judges will be looking for a bar with ambience, a good range of drinks, cocktails too, and it goes without saying… service with a smile.
Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue 2023Pernod Ricard, the brand owners with Havana Club, Beefeater and Chivas in its portfolio, is looking for a late night venue that exemplifies what is good and great about late night socialising. Great drinks, music and service are all important, but the atmosphere too plays its part. Eligible venues must be open after midnight, but whether you are a club, dive bar, cocktail bar or entertainment venue – this award is for you if you offer a first class late night experience. If you know a venue you think deserves the accolade or you are one… get voting.
Hospitality Employer of the YearHealth and wellbeing in hospitality is being embraced by companies the length and breadth of Scotland and this year we are seeking the hospitality operator that does most to ensure its team is looked after and part of that criteria will include its response to looking after the health and wellbeing of its team. Do you work for a business that you feel goes above and beyond, or do you think you are one? Do you offer the best environment for your team to thrive and do you support them?
William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice 2023The Bar Apprentice is back for its 16th year and William Grant & Sons backing the initiative with brands Glenfiddich Single Malt Whisky, Hendrick’s Gin, and Monkey Shoulder. A bespoke programme has been created for this year’s apprentices – an experience you can’t buy! The programme aims to inspire and educate as well as giving practical experience for working behind the bar or on the floor. The 2023 apprentices will be mentored by a team of experts from William Grant & Son’s. The apprentice who embraces the experience and makes the most progress will receive the accolade William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice 2023 and will be presented with the award at the Awards Ceremony.
Sunday Mail Pub of the YearScotland’s leading Sunday newspaper is looking for the best pub in the country. Do you have a welcoming atmosphere? Do your customers come back, and come back again? Get your customers to fill in the entry form when it appears in the Sunday Mail and online and tell us why you think you are eligible for ‘Pub of the Year’.
A bumper year for the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022 as more than 3500 people have had their say in naming Scotland’s most loved pubs, with thousands of votes cast online over the last few months.
Now in their 27th year, The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards – dubbed the hospitality Oscars, celebrate Scotland’s licensed trade and shine a spotlight on all aspects of the hospitality industry, featuring standout pubs up and down the country in more than 24 categories. These include Antos Dog Friendly Pub of The Year; Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue; The Busker Cocktail Bar of the Year and Kopparberg New Bar of the Year.
Over 75 leading finalists have been revealed today including Glasgow’s stylish Moskito and the eclectic Bourbon in Edinburgh for the Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue.
Seeking out the nation’s most creative drinks, trailblazing whisky and cocktail bar, The Gate, and the adventurous Absent Ear are up for the Busker Cocktail bar, alongside the Cocktail Mafia in Edinburgh and Lido in Troon.
The inaugural Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year will see Broughty Ferry’s The Fort, Dundee’s Jute Café bar, Inverness-based Scotch & Rye and Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Café battle it out to be crowned Scotland’s best bar.
Independent Operators are the driving force for hospitality. Up for the DRAM Independent Pub Group of the Year award for 2022 are Buzzworks Holdings in Ayrshire who have an award-winning portfolio of bars and restaurants in Scotland including Vic’s & The Vine, Scotts, The Mill House, Lido, The Duke and The Bridge Inn to name a few. Also in the running are Bread Meats Bread, who have six eponymous venues serving up award winning burgers and cocktails, and the Bruce group, who focus on drinks-led retailing with an inherent added value experience in Edinburgh and Fife. Their multi-venue portfolio includes Stramash, The Mash House, Opium, Dusk and the Royal Mile Tavern.
Scotland’s longest running licensed trade awards also look to celebrate rising stars in the industry, community led initiatives and give a much-needed boost to those championing the late-night economy.
Every finalist has been voted for by the public and people in the trade and will have been visited by mystery shoppers. Winners will be announced at a prestigious award ceremony on 30th August 2022 at The Doubletree Glasgow Central, in Glasgow.
Organiser, Susan Young said: “The votes are in and verified and the time is nearly here to celebrate the best of the best at The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022.
“The licensed trade needs our support more than ever and Scottish hospitality has never been better. Congratulations to all the finalists – your recognition is very well deserved, and I can’t wait to see who takes home the trophies at this year’s awards.”
The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022 will announce all category winners at a glitzy award ceremony on August 30th. Where guests will also be able to enjoy entertainment from Abba MANIA.
For more information, head to https://scottishbarandpubawards.com or to book a ticket for the event, email accounts@mediaworldltd.com
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The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022 finalists. *Note that the awards are alphabetical and in no particular order.
| Category | Finalist |
| WINNER: Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year | Black Ivy, Edinburgh |
| Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year | The Forth Inn, Aberfoyle |
| Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year | Inndeep, Glasgow |
| Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year | The White Stag, Callander |
| Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year | Brewhemia, Edinburgh |
| Aro Procurement Customer Service Award. | The Coach House, Bridge of Weir |
| Aro Procurement Customer Service Award | The Fox & Willow, Ayr |
| WINNER: Aro Procurement Customer Service Award | The Huxley, Edinburgh |
| Aro Procurement Customer Service Award | Little Soho, Jordanhill |
| Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year | The Albananch, Edinburgh |
| Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year | Artisan, Wishaw |
| Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year | The Malt Room, Inverness |
| WINNER: Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year | The Piper Whisky Bar, Glasgow |
| Deanston Guru of the Year. | Gillian Kirkland /The Piper’s Whisky Bar |
| Deanston Guru of the Year | Derek Mather/Artisan |
| WINNER: Deanston Guru of the Year | Matt McPherson/ The Malt Room |
| Deanston Guru of the Year | Alastair Shaw/The Gate |
| Deanston Guru of the Year | Simon Smith/ Whisky & Cynicism |
| WINNER: DRAM Community Pub | Clippens Inn, Linwood |
| DRAM Community Pub | Granny Gibbs, Whiteinch |
| DRAM Community Pub | Silver Wing, Edinburgh |
| DRAM Community Pub | The Weston Tavern, Kilmaurs |
| WINNER: Hi Spirits Best Live Music Venue | Box Bar & Club, Glasgow |
| Hi Spirits Best Live Music Venue | Harley’s, Ayr |
| Hi Spirits Best Live Music Venue | MacSorley’s, Glasgow |
| Hi Spirits Best Live Music Venue | St Luke’s & The Winged Ox, Glasgow |
| HOSPO Manager of the year | Nicola Armstrong – Macgochans, Mull |
| WINNER: HOSPO Manager of the year | Matt Colligan – Bierhalle |
| HOSPO Manager of the year | Lee Little – Lido, Troon |
| HOSPO Manager of the year | Connor Smith – Hamilton Palace, Hamilton |
| HOSPO Manager of the year | Keir Beckwith, Gaucho |
| Hungrrr Technology Adopter of the Year | Buzzworks, Ayrshire |
| Hungrrr Technology Adopter of the Year | C&C Restaurant Group, Glasgow |
| Hungrrr Technology Adopter of the Year | Guacho, Glasgow |
| WINNER: Hungrrr Technology Adopter of the Year | Scoop Restaurants, Glasgow |
| Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year. | The Dome, Edinburgh |
| WINNER: Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year | Ga Ga Kitchen & Bar, Glasgow |
| Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year | Kyloe, Edinburgh |
| Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year | Ralph & Finns , Glasgow |
| Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year | The Ubiquitous Chip , Glasgow |
| Kopparberg New Bar of the Year | The Albyn, Aberdeen |
| WINNER: Kopparberg New Bar of the Year | The Fox, Troon |
| Kopparberg New Bar of the Year | Giddy Goose, Perth |
| Kopparberg New Bar of the Year | Jimmy Badgers, Inverness |
| Molinari Casual Dining Award. | Allegria Eatery, Largs |
| WINNER: Molinari Casual Dining Award | Caffe Parma, Glasgow |
| Molinari Casual Dining Award | Boar’s Head, Auchtermuchty |
| Molinari Casual Dining Award | Mediterraneo, Glasgow |
| Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year | The Fort, Broughty Ferry |
| Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year. | Jute Cafe Bar, Dundee |
| Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year | Scotch & Rye, Inverness |
| WINNER: Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year | Kelvingrove Café, Glasgow |
| Old Tom Gin Hotel Bar of the Year | 18, Rusacks Hotel, St Andrews |
| Old Tom Gin Hotel Bar of the Year | The American Bar, Gleneagles Hotel, Auchterarder |
| WINNER: Old Tom Gin Hotel Bar of the Year | Virgin Hotels, The Commons Club, Edinburgh |
| Old Tom Gin Hotel Bar of the Year | The Lounge Bar, Fonab Castle, Pitlochry |
| Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue. | Bourbon, Edinburgh |
| Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue | Charlie’s Loft, Glasgow |
| Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue | Moskito, Glasgow |
| Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue WINNER: Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue |
Nox, Aberdeen Record Factory, Glasgow Why Not Nightclub Edinburgh |
| Stoli Sustainability Award | Contini’s Scottish Restaurant, Edinburgh |
| WINNER: Stoli Sustainability Award | Eusebi, Glasgow |
| Stoli Sustainability Award | Gaucho, Glasgow |
| Stoli Sustainability Award | SWG3, Glasgow |
| The Busker Cocktail Bar of the Year. | The Absent Ear, Glasgow |
| The Busker Cocktail Bar of the Year | The Cocktail Mafia, Edinburgh |
| The Busker Cocktail Bar of the Year | The Gate, Glasgow |
| WINNER: The Busker Cocktail Bar of the Year | The Lido, Troon |
| Independent Operator of the Year | Bread Meets Bread (BMB), Glasgow |
| Independent Operator of the Year | The Bruce Group, Edinburgh |
| Independent Operator of the Year | Buzzworks, Ayrshire |
| WINNER: Independent Operator of the Year | Scoop Restaurants |
| Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Gavin Lidbury, The Finnieston |
| Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Agustin Lopez, Virgin Hotel |
| Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Atlanta Hodson, Waldorf Astoria |
| Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Nick Wardrop, The Fox |
| Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Luke Watt, The Dome |
| Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Kat O’Driscoll, Bonnie & Wild |
| Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Kitty McKean, Revolution |
| Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Ally Haddow, Panda & Sons |
| WINNER: Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Gavin Lidbury, The Finneston |
| Willian Grant Bar Apprentice 2022 | Keri Williams, One Cannon Mills |
| SUNDAY MAIL PUB OF THE YEAR | Habbies, Kilbarchan |
| WINNER: SUNDAY MAIL PUB OF THE YEAR | The Palais, Glasgow |
| SUNDAY MAIL PUB OF THE YEAR | The Station Bar, Glasgow |
| SUNDAY MAIL PUB OF THE YEAR | The Waverley, Wishaw |
On the night there other awards winner were:
|
Lifetime Achievement Awards – Colin Blair Dram Licensee of the Year – Jock Black, The Fort, Dundee Special Recognition Award – David Cochrane, HIT Inspirational Woman of the Year: Giovanna Eusebi, Eusebi Contribution to the Industry Award – Jim Hamilton Montpeliers Buzzworks Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year – Matt McPherson, The Malt Room. The other finalists were Paul Beveridge, Ramen Dayo and David Wade, The Parlour Team of the Year – Lisini Pub Company
|
| Voting Closed | 2026 |
| Voting Closed | 2026 |
| Judging Closed | 2026 |
| Award Ceremony | 2026 |
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