hospitality – Page 12 – The NEN

Finalists revealed for The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022

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 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 which has 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, which has six eponymous venues serving up award-winning burgers and cocktails, and the Bruce group, which 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 www.scottishbarandpubawards.com or to book a ticket for the event, email accounts@mediaworldltd.com

The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022 finalists. *Note that the awards are alphabetical and in no particular order.

Category	Finalist
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
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
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
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

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

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
HOSPO Manager of the year	Matt Colligan – Bier Hall
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
Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year	The Dome, Edinburgh
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
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
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
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
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	Nox, AberdeenWhy Not Nightclub Edinburgh

Stoli Sustainability Award – Heather Suttie…	Contini’s Scottish Restaurant, Edinburgh
Stoli Sustainability Award – Heather Suttie…	Eusebi, Glasgow
Stoli Sustainability Award – Heather Suttie…	Gaucho, Glasgow
Stoli Sustainability Award – Heather Suttie…	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
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
Independent Operator of the Year	Scoop Restaurants

SUNDAY MAIL PUB OF THE YEAR	Habbies, Kilbarchan
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 will be various other awards including an

Award for SuccessThe Lifetime Achievement AwardAnd an Inspirational Woman Award

Follow online:

https://www.instagram.com/scottishbarpubawards/
https://twitter.com/scotbarpubaward

Refurbished Native Edinburgh reveals city’s hottest new speakeasy

Native, the leading UK aparthotel brand with eleven sites across London, including Bankside, Hyde Park and Mayfair, Manchester and Scotland has announced Native Edinburgh, has re-opened following a 14-month refurbishment.

The half-a-million-pound revamp covers the public spaces and eighty-two apartments comprising of Studios, One Beds and Premium One Beds. Additionally, a new cultural programme and a speakeasy bar, Counter, is launching.

The design for Native Edinburgh’s refurbishment was inspired by ‘The Inventors’ who lived within the city.

The famed Scottish inventors include John Logie Baird, inventor of the television, Sir Alexander Fleming who discovered penicillin and won a Nobel Prize, and William Cullen, inventor of the refrigerator

. The history of the Scottish inventors surrounds the streets around the property, and the new design aims to highlight this unique history through the décor, artwork and quirky gadgets used decoratively.

The chic new interiors combine amber whisky tones with the midnight teal colours of the night sky above the Georgian facades of Edinburgh’s New Town, where the property resides.

Rich colours including the bright gold palette is reminiscent of the local area that was originally built to bring wealth back to the burgh of The Whisky Barone. The reimagined heritage-inspired Lobby space showcases opulent green hues and botanical themed prints, taking inspiration from the Royal Botanic Gardens – a natural treasure of Scotland.

The original Georgian windows allow natural light to flood in over the mid-century style furniture and lighting. The wallpaper in the lobby has been designed by Edinburgh Mairi Helena, known for her vibrant designs inspired by a love for Scotland’s colourful and textual landscapes.

Olivia Immesi, Managing Director says, “Each Native site celebrates the best of its surrounding area and Native Edinburgh’s refurbishment reflects the history of the city, and a focus on local culture to allow guests to plug into the city, whether they’re passing through or staying for longer.”

Coinciding with the re-opening, Native Edinburgh is launching a new speakeasy bar; Counter.

Counter will serve coffee by day and cocktails by night providing an undiscovered destination bar in the heart of city centre for guests and locals.

The Counter at Native Edinburgh will also be home to a new bespoke cultural programme: it will host a selection of carefully curated eclectic events, spotlighting local produce in the daytime and homegrown talent at night.

Late night summer programming will see the venue host a range of acts from neo-soul jazz nights and vinyl DJs to spoken word poetry. Counter will shine a light on up-and-coming creatives from around the city, including artists, writers, musicians and more.

Combining the freedom and authenticity of a local apartment with the comfort, convenience and premium service of a boutique hotel, Native breathes new life into historic city-centre buildings through thoughtful restoration and refurbishment.

Embracing local culture, Native collaborate with local, independent like-minded businesses, designers and artists meaning each site has its own unique personality, creating inspiring, ‘native’ experiences.

Perfectly situated 20 minutes by car from Edinburgh airport, rooms at Native Edinburgh are priced from £100 per night.

YOTEL Edinburgh launches limited edition Matchatini cocktail

YOTEL Edinburgh has launched a limited-edition modern twist on a Tia Maria classic, with the Matchatini cocktail.

Combining the natural caffeine of Japanese green Matcha tea extract with Tia Maria’s indulgent creamy liqueur, YOTEL’s Matchatini is the perfect way to find some inner bliss in Edinburgh’s city centre.

YOTEL Edinburgh’s Matchatini cocktail is the perfect chance to carve out some ‘me-time’, blending Tia Maria Matcha Cream Liqueur with grape, vodka and Matcha sugar for a silky smooth finish. The cocktail launches alongside self-care packs celebrating YOTEL’s exclusive partnership with Australian-born beauty brand Urban Jungle, making YOTEL the first hotel brand in the world to stock the luxury, ethical hair and bodycare.

Guests can now add Urban Jungle’s ‘Do It On The Daily’ pamper bundles to their YOTEL Edinburgh room booking when they book a stay on yotel.com.

The bundle includes celebrated products such as the brand’s ‘Melt Me Softly Cleansing Balm’, which currently sells one tub every 12 minutes in Australia. Becoming one of the first places in the UK for fans to try out Urban Jungle’s innovative beauty products, guests at YOTEL Edinburgh can achieve that all important glow with Urban Jungle’s ‘Glow With The Flow Gel Serum’, delicately packaged up in a ‘Love Pouch Bubble Bag’.

Urban Jungle’s everyday essentials will gently wash the day away before locking in hydration, and now guests can sign off their ultimate self-care day in Edinburgh with a Matchatini, savour the iconic matcha tea flavour and refreshing floral notes and embrace a new mindful ritual.

Matchatinis are now available for £9 at YOTEL Edinburgh’s contemporary bar and restaurant Komyuniti for a limited time only. Guests can also add an Urban Jungle ‘Do It On The Daily’ bundle to their stay in Edinburgh for £44. For more information and to book: www.YOTEL.com/en/urban-jungle

Created using matcha tea extract to provide a natural source of caffeine, Tia Maria’s Matcha Cream Liqueur creates a refreshing sweetness, sure to delight fans of the iconic Japanese green tea.

Hailed for its energising and calming qualities, matcha has swept the nation in recent years and now with YOTEL Edinburgh’s latest Matchatini concoction, guests can feel good about their drink choices, toasting to taking a break and creating new rituals.

To create your own Matchatini at home, Tia Maria’s suggested recipe is:

Ingredients:

1 x grape
Matcha sugar
30ml of vodka
60ml of Tia Maria Matcha Cream Liqueur

Method:

Cut a grape in half and run the inside around the rim of a chilled glass
Dip glass in Matcha sugar
Combine 30ml of Vodka with 60ml of Tia Maria Matcha and give it a shake
Serve and enjoy

YOTEL Edinburgh’s new pamper packages and Matchatini cocktail celebrate the launch of Urban Jungle hair and bodycare in YOTELs around the world.

Urban Jungle’s ethically sourced products will be available in every YOTEL, YOTELAIR and YOTELPAD worldwide, meaning hotel guests can enjoy a new quality of hotel hair and bodycare, leaving bulky toiletries at home. Products including Urban Jungle’s Make Good Shampoo, Save the Day Conditioner, Magic Bullet Hand & Body Wash and Thirsty Work Hand & Body Creme will be available in every room, meaning YOTEL’s toiletries are cruelty-free, vegan and cute to boot!

Committing to a greener way of working, YOTEL crew can monitor in-room product levels and refill as necessary, removing the need for wasteful miniature plastic bottles. Urban Jungle bottles are also made with EcoPure, an additive that assists with the biological breakdown of plastic overtime.

YOTEL Edinburgh’s new wellness offering will encourage guests to slow down, taking time out of their busy days to enjoy a Matchatini in Komyuniti’s welcoming space, before dialling up their self care routine with Urban Jungle’s luxury packages.

To find out more about YOTEL or book a stay visit www.yotel.com or @yotel .

To find out more about Tia Maria visit www.tiamaria.com or @tiamariadrink

To find out more about Urban Jungle visit www.urbanjunglebeauty.com or @urbanjunglebeauty .

Last Orders! Nominate your favourite in Scottish Bar & Pub Awards

Does your favourite bar go above and beyond for the community? Does it have a gin-credible drinks selection? Or has it shaken up an innovative cocktail? Well, you only have until the end of TODAY to share their successes and help crown them top of the Scots.

It is your last chance to enter Scotland’s longest running licensed trade awards – dubbed the ‘hospitality Oscars’ – the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022.

Back bigger and better this year, the prestigious annual event is looking for establishments from John O’Groats to the Mull of Galloway who deserve to be recognised for their offerings.

Have you been wowed by the views from a special rooftop bar? Has a brand-new chic lounge caressed your tastebuds with a cocktail offering? Or have the charming surroundings of your local welcomed both you and your pooch through the door? Well now is your chance to shout about it!

At the 27^th annual event, category sponsors are looking to hear from staff, customers and community members who would like to see their much-loved establishment take home a coveted accolade across one of the nineteen specialised categories.

Nominations are open until 30 June and establishments have the chance to be shortlisted for recognition as Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year, the Molinari Casual Dining Award or the Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue.

Stolichnaya are on the hunt for a bar, restaurant or hotel that operates with a sustainable business model – from recycled bottles to reducing plastic waste. If that is you, they want to hear from you.

Meanwhile, Hungrrr are looking for an establishment that is forward-thinking and has embraced technology to keep their business driving forward.

Antos are also looking to find the best Dog Friendly Pub of the Year, The Busker is seeking out the Innovative Cocktail Bar of the Year and Hi-Spirits want to find the Best Live Music Venue.

The prestigious awards also look to celebrate rising stars in the industry, community-minded establishments and overall give a much-needed boost to those championing the late-night economy.

New for 2022, The Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the year award will look to recognise operators that offer something special for their locals or are full of exceptional teams that make the industry so vibrant and fresh.

Organiser, Susan Young said: “Scotland has the best people and our awards are here to commend those charismatic individuals and their incredible venues that make up Scotland’s unparalleled hospitality landscape. But they need your help to vote for them. Reward the efforts of your favourite pub or bar and vote now on The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards website.”

To enter your local bar into this year’s awards, simply vote online to cast your nomination. Every vote counts as the ten competitors with the most votes from each category will receive a visit from ‘mystery shoppers’ before the finalists are revealed.

Following a judging process, the winners will then be announced at a glittering award ceremony on 30th August 2022 at The Doubletree by Hilton Glasgow Central.

Nominations are now open across Scotland for The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022. Voting closes on the 30th June 2022.

For more information, head to https://scottishbarandpubawards.com

Follow online:

https://www.instagram.com/scottishbarpubawards/
https://twitter.com/scotbarpubaward

CATEGORIES AND CRITERIA

Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year

Obviously a pub that welcomes dogs… with great facilities and perhaps even treats for their four-legged customers.

ARO Procurement Customer Service Award
Judges will be looking for a pub, restaurant or hotel which fully embraces the customer service ethos.

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year
Gordon & MacPhail, one of Scotland’s premiere whisky companies, is looking for a whisky bar that excels and has a great range.

Buzzworks and Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year
Buzzworks and Montpeliers, two of Scotland’s premiere hospitality businesses, are seeking an up and coming entrepreneur. The prize is a year’s mentoring…

Deanston Whisky Guru of the Year
This category is for people who not only have a great knowledge of whisky.

DRAM Community Pub of the Year
Judges here will be looking for a special pub, which is not only part of the community but supports it too.

DRAM Independent Pub Group of the Year
The DRAM is on the look-out for Scotland’s top Independent Pub Group.

Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue 2022
Live music is very much part of a vibrant night life, aand judes are looking for Scotland’s best.

Hungrrr Technology Adopter of The Year
Hospitality operators that embrace technology to keep their business on track and driving them forward.

Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year
A memorable meal in a memorable restaurant – where have you been that has impressed?

Kopparberg New Bar of the Year
Is there a great new bar near you that deserves an award?

Molinari Casual Dining Award 2022
Recongised relaxed atmosphere venues that serve good value quality food.

Molson Coors Scottish Bar Of The Year
This inaugural award is seeking out Scotland’s best bars that have been around for more than a year.

Old Tom Gin 1821 Hotel Bar of the Year
Do you have a hotel that you love to go to relax and enjoy the great outdoors that also has a great bar?

Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue
Pernod 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.

Sunday Mail Pub of the Year
This year the Sunday Mail Pub of the Year Award will go to the most voted for pub in Scotland at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards.

Stolichnaya Award for Sustainability

This award is aimed at bars, restaurants or hotels that operate with an effective and sustainability agenda, from reducing plastic waste to conserving energy – it all matters.

The Busker Innovative Cocktail Bar of the Year
The Busker is an innovative ‘new to the world’ Irish Whiskey which is seeking out Scotland’s most innovative Cocktail Bar. It is looking for a bar which marries traditions with a contemporary look and which empowers bartenders to go beyond their limitations and create flavour-curious (great) cocktails.

William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice of the Year 2022
The Bar Apprentice is back for with a bespoke programme for this year’s apprentices – an experience you can’t buy!

Rebrand for Edinburgh First

The University of Edinburgh’s first-class hospitality and events portfolio, previously known as Edinburgh First, has ‘transitioned to a new identity closely aligned to the strong, globally recognised University brand’.

The rebrand includes the relaunch of the brand’s enviable accommodation offering. The new Hospitality and Events Collection now includes The Scott Hotel, a boutique hotel with 36 stunning suites and spacious bedrooms, perfectly positioned to appeal to those business and leisure travellers who are looking for a five star luxury experience.

The hotels rebrand also includes KM Hotel & Apartments in Edinburgh’s old town, a mix of stylish, modern bedrooms and apartments and, finally, The Scholar Hotel, located in the beautiful grounds of the Pollock estate. This hotel now has a contemporary bar and restaurant, as well as rooms that have been designed to ensure maximum comfort and the best possible night’s sleep.

The conference and events portfolio has always been a core part of The University of Edinburgh’s Hospitality and Events Collection, and the rebrand will further strengthen this connection to the University.

The University’s conference venues have always helped to attract global conferences and events with large delegate cohorts to the City of Edinburgh, and the team will work closely with academics and researchers to ensure that this grows even further.

The rebrand represents the growth of the University of Edinburgh’s commercial arm and further positions The University of Edinburgh Hospitality and Events Collection as a major player in the hospitality and business tourism industry.

Carina Svensen, Director, Accommodation, Catering and Events at The University of Edinburgh said: “The rebrand has been years in the making and our expert team has spent a lot of time analysing the market and exploring changing customer demands. Our transition has been expertly executed at every level to reflect the new hospitality, conference, and events landscape.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming guests old and new into our hotels, apartments, and unique event spaces.”

For more information, please visit: www.uoecollection.com

Is Edinburgh home to Scotland’s best hotel bars?

WITH the opening of some seriously swoon (eh? – Ed.)Edinburgh hotels, could it be argued nowhere in the country compares? If your favourite dwelling also knows its way around a delicious drinks menu, now is your chance to share their successes and help crown them top of the Scots.

There are just under two weeks left to enter Scotland’s longest-running licensed trade awards – dubbed the ‘hospitality Oscars’ – the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022.

Back bigger and better this year, the prestigious annual event is looking for the best hotel establishment in YOUR area that deserves recognition for its stunning bar.

Have you been wowed by the views from the stunning Gleneagles Townhouse rooftop bar? Has the impressive Commons Club in the Virgin Hotel caressed your tastebuds with a cocktail offering? Or have the decadent surroundings of the House of Gods bar made you feel like royalty for the evening? Or about new cocktail speakeasy called Counter in Native Edinburgh? Well now is your chance to shout about it!

At the 27^th annual event, category sponsors Old Tom Gin 1821 are looking to hear from staff, customers and community members who would like to see their much-loved Edinburgh establishment take home the coveted accolade.

Nominations are open until 30 June and establishments have the chance to be shortlisted across 18 amazing categories including the Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year, the Molinari Casual Dining Award or the Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue.

The Scottish capital impressed judges last year, with the manager of the Black Ivy, Tony Craig, triumphing in the bar manager of the year category. If one of your favourite bars has a staff member who goes beyond the call of duty, we would love to hear about them too.

The prestigious awards also look to celebrate rising stars in the industry, community-minded establishments and overall give a much-needed boost to those championing the late night economy.

New for 2022, The Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the year award will look to recognise operators that offer something special for their locals, or are full of exceptional teams that make the industry so vibrant and fresh.

To enter your local hotel bar into this year’s awards, simply vote online to cast your nomination. Every vote counts as the ten competitors with the most votes from each category will receive a visit from ‘mystery shoppers’ before the finalists are revealed.

Following a judging process, the winners will then be announced at a glittering award ceremony on 30th August 2022 at The Hilton Hotel, in Glasgow.

Nominations are now open across Scotland for The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022. Voting closes on the 30th June 2022.

For more information, head to https://scottishbarandpubawards.com

Follow online:

https://www.instagram.com/scottishbarpubawards/
https://twitter.com/scotbarpubaward

CATEGORIES AND CRITERIA

Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year

Obviously a pub that welcomes dogs… with great facilities and perhaps even treats for their four-legged customers.

ARO Procurement Customer Service Award

Judges will be looking for a pub, restaurant or hotel which fully embraces the customer service ethos.

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year

Gordon & MacPhail, one of Scotland’s premiere whisky companies, is looking for a whisky bar that excels and has a great range.

Buzzworks and Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year

Buzzworks and Montpeliers, two of Scotland’s premiere hospitality businesses, are seeking an up and coming entrepreneur. The prize is a year’s mentoring…

Deanston Whisky Guru of the Year

This category is for people who not only have a great knowledge of whisky.

DRAM Community Pub of the Year

Judges here will be looking for a special pub, which is not only part of the community but supports it too.

DRAM Independent Pub Group of the Year

The DRAM is on the look-out for Scotland’s top Independent Pub Group.

Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue 2022

Live music is very much part of a vibrant night life, aand judes are looking for Scotland’s best.

Hungrrr Technology Adopter of The Year

Hospitality operators that embrace technology to keepe their business on track and driving them forward.

Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year

A memorable meal in a memorable restaurant – where have you been that has impressed?

Kopparberg New Bar of the Year

Is there a great new bar near you that deserves an award?

Molinari Casual Dining Award 2022

Recongised relaxed atmosphere venues that serve good value quality food.

Molson Coors Scottish Bar Of The Year

This inaugural award is seeking out Scotland’s best bars that have been around for more than a year.

Old Tom Gin 1821 Hotel Bar of the Year

Do you have a hotel that you love to go to relax and enjoy the great outdoors that also has a great bar?

Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue

Pernod 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.

Sunday Mail Pub of the Year

This year the Sunday Mail Pub of the Year Award will go to the most voted for pub in Scotland at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards.

Stolichnaya Award for Sustainability

This award is aimed at bars, restaurants or hotels that operate with an effective and sustainability agenda, from reducing plastic waste to conserving energy – it all matters.

The Busker Innovative Cocktail Bar of the Year

The Busker is an innovative ‘new to the world’ Irish Whiskey which is seeking out Scotland’s most innovative Cocktail Bar. It is looking for a bar which marries traditions with a contemporary look and which empowers bartenders to go beyond their limitations and create flavour-curious (great) cocktails.

William Grant & Sons Bar Apprentice of the Year 2022

The Bar Apprentice is back for with a bespoke programme for this year’s apprentices – an experience you can’t buy!

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh announces opening of luxury restaurant and bar

Virgin Hotels, the luxury lifestyle hotel brand by Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson, announces that its flagship restaurant and bar, Commons Club, located inside the newly opened Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, is now open.

The luxurious modern day social club will officially open to the public on Tuesday 14^th June. For those eager to get ahead of the crowd, reservations can now be made directly on the hotel’s website at https://virginhotels.com/edinburgh/dine-and-drink/the-commons-club/.

Nestled across two floors, Commons Club is designed to be a playful yet sophisticated environment for guests to eat, drink and vibe in the heart of Edinburgh and will showcase contemporary Scottish seasonal cuisine using the freshest produce straight from Scotland’s local larder for diners.

Newly appointed Executive Chef, Steven Wilson, has created a menu that will cater to all tastes. For starters, guests can enjoy an array of stunning dishes including, Ceviche with line-caught & cured wild seabass, shaved fennel, dill, nashi pear & green olive puree; Wagyu Tataki with Scottish wagyu beef “Tataki style”, fried garlic, ponzu green onion puree & parsnip crisp and Risotto with Scottish farm spelt & barley risotto, baby morels, lightly-roasted almonds & shaved fresh summer truffle.

Moving onto mains, guests can choose between Halibut with pan-seared Gigha halibut, confit aromatic farm seasonal vegetables in a light saffron & Shetland blue mussels velouté; slow roast Perthshire chicken “dinner” with fondant potato, baby leek, morel mushrooms & fresh peas, crispy chicken & Pata Negra croquet, bread sauce, roast chicken jus & chive oil and Isle of Mull seaweed tortellini pasta filled with wild herb ricotta, clay oven-roasted artichoke, pea & feve etuvee, vegetarian parmesan air.

Guests can also explore a range of bespoke cocktails created with locality in mind, helping to bring a sense of Scotland into each of the flavours. From a ‘Breakfast in the Highlands’ made with Glenfiddich 15 Single Malt Whisky, Brown Butter, Toasted Oat Amontillado Sherry, Heather Honey and Bittered Sling Kensington Aromatic, to a ‘Queen Street’ made with Bacardi Carta Blanca Rum, Martini Reserva Ambrato, Lemon, Celery Bitters and Islay mist, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Commons Club is situated within the brand-new Virgin Hotels Edinburgh located in the landmark India Buildings in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle. The finished hotel will feature 222 Chambers and Grand Chamber Suites and multiple dining and drinking outlets, all with their own unique space and distinct design.

Accompanying Commons Club later in the year will be Eve, a vibrant, all-day dining space, offering a progressive approach to late night entertainment in Edinburgh. The hotel site is also home to a 19th century church, known as Greyfriars Hall, that is being beautifully restored and repurposed as a special event venue. In addition, the hotel will offer a rooftop sanctuary with unobstructed Edinburgh Castle views.

Scott McArdle, General Manager of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, commented: “Edinburgh is such an iconic city and we’re thrilled it will be the home of our flagship restaurant and bar within the first Virgin Hotels in the UK and across Europe.

“Commons Club is a unique offering that will complement the current offering of the hotel. The food and drink menus will bring an array of local flavours to the table and can’t wait to welcome everyone in to try them.”

Steven Wilson, Executive Chef of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: “After years of travelling the world and working in some unforgettable restaurants and hotels, I’m so excited to be back in my hometown and to be part of this iconic opening in Edinburgh.

“We really do have access to the highest quality local produce right on our doorstep in Scotland and that’s something the menu at Commons Club celebrates. Guests will enjoy our timeless menu that will continue to evolve with the seasons, keeping them coming back time and time again.”

All guests can sign up for the brand-wide guest preferences and loyalty program ‘The Know’, which grants a personalised hotel experience that allows for access to room upgrades, member rates, special events and a complimentary cocktail hour in Commons Club – all when booking directly with Virgin Hotels.

All Chambers and Suites have integrated tech capabilities, which can control lighting, thermostats, TVs, and order room service directly via the mobile app, Lucy which is exclusively available to Know members.

Lucy also gives guests the ability to check in prior to arrival and can be used as an access key to their Chambers. Chambers are also pet friendly, with complimentary ‘pet-menities’ available, including dog beds and food and water dishes.

The hotel has been developed and is owned by Flemyn and managed by Virgin Hotels.

Reservations for the hotel are also open and can be made directly on the hotel’s website www.virginhotels.com/edinburgh.

Follow along on social media, Instagram @commonsclubedi, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube

Punters asked to crown Scotland’s very best cocktail bars

As the country heads out to enjoy the Queen’s Jubilee long weekend, punters are being asked to nominate and ‘crown’ Scotland’s very best cocktail bars.

Whether a venue is celebrating its very own Platinum Jubilee with 70 years of service, or has only been open for a few months – nominations are now open at the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards.

Seeking out the nation’s most creative drinks, ‘The Busker Innovative Cocktail Bar of the Year’ award is looking for cocktails fit for a Queen or tailor-made to impress for the long bank holiday weekend that deserve recognition.

Votes have been rolling so far in for late night cocktail bar Orchid in Aberdeen, the eccentric Raging Bull in Edinburgh, modern Scotch pub, The Gate in Glasgow and hidden bar, Absent Ear.

Dubbed the hospitality ‘Oscars’, The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards aim to reward the best of the best, crowning venues and raising a glass to an industry which has been hard hit during the past few years.

Anyone can nominate their favourite pub and voting closes 30th June 2022. Submit your favourite cocktail bar now at www.scottishbarandpubawards.com

Now in their 27th year, the awards shine a spotlight on all aspects of the hospitality industry, with this year’s cocktail bar search focussing on a venue which empowers bartenders to push their limits and creative masterful cocktails which marry traditional elements with contemporary looks.

Whether your local excels in inventive Margaritas, puts their signature twist on an Old Fashioned or makes the perfect Manhattan, the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards want to recognise them.

Every vote counts as the top ten competitors from each category will receive a visit from ‘mystery shoppers’ before the esteemed finalists are revealed.

Organiser of the awards, Susan Young said: “Scotland’s major cities such as Glasgow and Edinburgh are well-known for their vast cocktail selection, but at the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards we want to cast the net wider and ensure venues all across the country are recognised for their creative cocktail work.

“Whether your local bar has concocted a taste sensation in celebration of the upcoming Jubilee Weekend, or you are a local bartender constantly providing your patrons with new and inventive cocktails to try – we want to hear from you. Support local and reward the hard work of Scotland’s hospitality industry. “

The national search has almost 20 categories focussed on celebrating rising stars in the industry, community led initiatives, sustainability practices, late night venues and many more.

Awards vary from ‘ARO Procurement Customer Service Award’ for pubs, restaurants or hotels which embrace exceptional customer service or even the ‘Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year’, rewarding venues for going above and beyond for patrons’ four-legged friends.

The prestigious awards work to provide a much-needed boost to those championing the late night economy, from Scotland’s metropolitan city centre bars and restaurants to snug hideaways on the northernmost islands.

The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards encourage all those in the community to get involved, rewarding your local pub or bar for all of those perfect pints they’ve pulled over the years! Guests and staff can simply vote online to cast your nomination.

Following a public vote judging process, the winners will then be announced at a glamorous award ceremony on 30th August 2022 at The Hilton Hotel, in Glasgow. Voting closes on the 30th June 2022.

For more information, head to https://scottishbarandpubawards.com Follow online:

https://www.instagram.com/scottishbarpubawards/
https://twitter.com/scotbarpubaward

CATEGORIES AND CRITERIA

Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year

Obviously a pub that welcomes dogs… with great facilities and perhaps even treats for their four-legged customers.

ARO Procurement Customer Service Award
Judges will be looking for a pub, restaurant or hotel which fully embraces the customer service ethos.

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year
Gordon & MacPhail, one of Scotland’s premiere whisky companies, is looking for a whisky bar that excels and has a great range.

Buzzworks and Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year
Buzzworks and Montpeliers, two of Scotland’s premiere hospitality businesses, are seeking an up and coming entrepreneur. The prize is a year’s mentoring…

Deanston Whisky Guru of the Year
This category is for people who not only have a great knowledge of whisky.

DRAM Community Pub of the Year
Judges here will be looking for a special pub, which is not only part of the community but supports it too.

DRAM Independent Pub Group of the Year
The DRAM is on the look-out for Scotland’s top Independent Pub Group.

Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue 2022
Live music is very much part of a vibrant night life, aand judes are looking for Scotland’s best.

Hungrrr Technology Adopter of The Year
Hospitality operators that embrace technology to keepe their business on track and driving them forward.

Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year
A memorable meal in a memorable restaurant – where have you been that has impressed?

Kopparberg New Bar of the Year
Is there a great new bar near you that deserves an award?

Molinari Casual Dining Award 2022
Recongised relaxed atmosphere venues that serve good value quality food.

Molson Coors Scottish Bar Of The Year
This inaugural award is seeking out Scotland’s best bars that have been around for more than a year.

Old Tom Gin 1821 Hotel Bar of the Year
Do you have a hotel that you love to go to relax and enjoy the great outdoors that also has a great bar?

Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue
Pernod 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.

Sunday Mail Pub of the Year
This year the Sunday Mail Pub of the Year Award will go to the most voted for pub in Scotland at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards.

Stolichnaya Award for Sustainability

This award is aimed at bars, restaurants or hotels that operate with an effective and sustainability agenda, from reducing plastic waste to conserving energy – it all matters.

Fort Kinnaird launches new local employment project

Fort Kinnaird has collaborated with Capital City Partnership to launch a recruitment project that will support local people with employment opportunities and achieve new qualifications.

The Focus on Recruitment and Training (FORT) scheme is running for three years and is situated next to the Fort Kinnaird Management Suite. The free service is available for people aged 16 and over and works to identify potential roles for jobseekers with local employers, including retailers at the centre.

The FORT project also includes the delivery of youth focused training courses on Retail and Customer Service, for those aged between 16 and 24.

The scheme’s inaugural course will run from Monday 27^th June until Friday 8^th July and will feature an SQA accredited Customer Service qualification, support with CV building, job applications and interview tips along with an opportunity to be interviewed by a recruiting Fort Kinnaird retailer.

FORT is funded by Fort Kinnaird’s co-owner, British Land, and in kind support from the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “As a hub for many local communities, it’s extremely important to us that we use Fort Kinnaird’s scale to support projects that will make a real difference to the lives of those living closest to us.

“We’re so pleased that the new FORT project will be available for people to access free advice, training and job opportunities and provide them with the difficult first step into employment or the jump between careers.”

Kenny Hall, integrated employer engagement officer at Capital City Partnership, said: “Retail and Hospitality are two industries that have suffered significantly in terms of staffing off the back of the pandemic, and employers at Fort Kinnaird are no different.

“Through the new FORT project, we hope to upskill and retrain people from the local community to fill the recruitment gaps at Fort Kinnaird and the surrounding area.

“To register your interest in our first course, please email: TrainingAcademy@capitalcitypartnership.org or drop in to see us at the Recruitment and Skills Centre situated within Fleming House at Fort Kinnaird”

For more information on Fort Kinnaird, visit:

https://www.fortkinnaird.com/community/recruitment-skills-centre-fort-kinnaird or www.rscfortkinnaird.co.uk.

New Coffee and Cocktail Speakeasy to launch in Native Edinburgh

An exciting new speakeasy is being launched in the capital next month.

As part of a major refurbishment for boutique aparthotel group, Native, the imaginative concept called Counter will serve coffee by day and cocktails by night in a new hidden destination bar in the heart of the city centre.

The Counter at Native Edinburgh will be home to a curation of eclectic food and events, highlighting local produce in the daytime and spotlighting homegrown talent at night.

Late summer programming will see Native hosting everything from neo-soul jazz nights, record listening to spoken word poetry, and the venue will shine a light on up and coming creatives from around the city, including artists, writers, musicians and more. Native Edinburgh will soon become the capital’s best-kept secret with speak-easy vibes and cocktails galore.

Their drinks menu has local collaborations with Edinburgh drink specialists Mothership HQ and Base Spirits Collective, which will see innovative cocktails like Pocket Negroni and Hippy Fizz available alongside craft sodas from Bon Accord and locally-sourced coffee from Red Squirrel.

Counter will also serve a range of bespoke bagels, sandwiches, treats and moreish snacks as part of their offering.

Opening later in the month in Native, when all the new hotel refurbishments are complete, Counter will welcome all guests including non residents from 11am until 1am.

With 82 apartments comprising studios, one bedrooms, and ground floor leisure and co-working spaces, Native Edinburgh provides the flexibility and amenities of a design-led boutique hotel, coupled with the space, comfort and privacy of a home from home. The 1790s constructed building is the perfect example of the Neoclassical and Georgian architecture in the area.

The Counter at Native Edinburgh will open later in June.

For more information on Native aparthotels, head to:

https://www.nativeplaces.com/property/native-edinburgh/