hospitality – Page 12 – The NEN

Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022 winners revealed

Scotland’s finest bars and pubs have been revealed at a glitzy awards ceremony for the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022 in Glasgow on Tuesday (30 August).

Hundreds of Scotland’s licenced trade gathered together to celebrate their achievements, enjoying entertainment from Abba MANIA.

Crowning the nation’s most loved pubs, the prestigious event saw over 27 venues and individuals pick up the coveted awards from up and down the country including Glasgow’s Ga Ga, Troon’s The Fox and Edinburgh’s Black Ivy and Virgin Hotels.

Organiser Susan Young said, “It’s been another incredible year for the annual Scottish Bar and Pub Awards as we’ve recognised some of the most creative, hard-working and beloved venues in the country.

“Following a difficult few years for the licensed trade, it’s fantastic to see so many venues dedicate their time to staff training, inventive menus and new initiatives.

“From Inverness to Dundee, Troon to Uddingston, this year’s winners have gone above and beyond to provide exemplary customer service, create new cocktails or champion their local live music scene.

“I’d like to give a special mention and warmest congratulations to our DRAM Lifetime Achievement Award winner Colin Blair from Buzzworks and Inspirational Woman of the Year, Giovanna Eusebi from Eusebi Deli – they are two worthy winners and a credit to our industry.

Congratulations everyone and thanks for once again helping us shine a spotlight on Scotland’s best venues!”

Full Winners List:

DRAM Lifetime Achievement Award

Colin Blair (Buzzworks)

Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year

Black Ivy, Edinburgh (above)

Aro Procurement Customer Service Award

The Huxley, Edinburgh

Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year

The Piper Whisky Bar, Glasgow

Deanston Whisky Guru 2022

Matt MacPherson, The Malt Room, Inverness

William Grant Bar Apprentice 2022

Gavin Lidbury, The Finnieston

Contribution to the Industry Award 2022

Jim Hamilton

Hi-Spirits Best Live Music Venue 2022

Box Bar & Club, Glasgow

Hospo TalentManager of the Year 2022

Matt Colligan, Bier Halle

Hungrrr Technology Adopter 2022

Scoop Restaurant Group, Glasgow

Inspirational Woman of the Year 2022

Giovanna Eusebi, Eusebi Deli

Inverarity Morton Restaurant of the Year

Ga Ga, Glasgow

Kopparberg New Bar of the Year

The Fox, Troon

Licensee of the Year

John Black, The Fort, Dundee

Award for Success

Paul Stevenson, Paesano

Molinari Casual Dining Award 2022

Caffe Parma, Glasgow

Molson Coors Scottish Bar of the Year

Kelvingrove Café, Glasgow

Buzzworks & Montpeliers

Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year

Matt MacPherson, The Malt Room

Old Tom Gin Hotel Bar of the Year

Virgin Hotels, The Commons Club, Edinburgh

Pernod Ricard Best Late Night Venue

Why Not Nightclub, Edinburgh

Scottish Bar & Pub Awards Community Pub of the Year

Clippens Inn, Linwood

Stoli Sustainability Award

Eusebi, Glasgow

Independent Operator of the Year

Jonathan MacDonald

Scoop Restaurant Group, Glasgow

The Busker Cocktail Bar of the Year

Lido, Troon

Scottish Hospitality Group Special Recognition Award 2022

David Cochrane, HIT

Scottish Bar & Pub Awards Team of the Year

Lisini, Uddingston

Sunday Mail Pub of the Year

The Palais, Glasgow

In their 27th year the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards, dubbed the hospitality Oscars, spotlight Scotland’s licensed trade and independent operators, rewarding the country’s most loved venues.

Finalists are shortlisted from an online vote open to the public, with over 3500 votes cast this year and visited by an esteemed panel of judges to crown the final winners.

The awards recognise everything from Kopparberg’s New Pub of the Year, Hi Spirits Best Live Music Venue and even Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year. The winners were announced from amongst 75 finalists at last night’s glittering awards ceremony at the Doubletree Hilton Glasgow Central, as Scotland’s finest bar and pub operators came together to celebrate a bumper year.

Glasgow’s bar and pub scene cleaned up at the awards, with local institutions like The Piper Whisky Bar taking home Benromach’s Whisky Bar of the Year, and the East End’s Palais Bar claiming the coveted prize of the night, the Sunday Mail Pub of the Year. West End mainstays Eusebi Deli won the Stoli Sustainability Award while Scoop Restaurants, operators of world-renowned venues Ka Pao and Ox and Finch, won Independent Operator of the Year.

Meanwhile, Edinburgh’s winners included Black Ivy for Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year (above), and beloved bar and restaurant The Huxley was recognised for exemplary service with the Aro Procurement Customer Service Award.

Newcomer The Commons Club at Virgin Hotels claimed the Old Tom Gin Hotel Bar of the Year, holding off competition from Gleneagles Hotel, Fonab Castle and Rusacks Hotel.

Outwith the central belt, the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards recognised some of the nation’s finest venues including Inverness’ The Malt Room.

Inverness native and bar manager of the venue Matt MacPherson took home two awards, crowned Deanston Whisky Guru 2022 and Buzzworks & Montpeliers Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year.

In Dundee, John Black of The Fort won Licensee of the Year, whilst The Fox in Troon was named Kopparberg’s New Bar of the Year, coming out top ahead of stiff competition from Jimmy Badgers, Giddy Goose and The Albyn.

The awards are Scotland’s longest running licensed trade awards, and celebrate the industry’s rising stars, community led initiatives and creative forces which drive the nation’s best venues.

For more information and a full list of winners head to www.scottishbarandpubawards.com

The Scottish Bar & Pub Awards 2022 finalists and winners.

*Note that the awards are alphabetical and in no particular order.

Category	Finalist
Antos Dog Friendly Pub of the Year	Black Ivy, Edinburgh – WINNER
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 – WINNER
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 – WINNER

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 – WINNER
Deanston Guru of the Year	Alastair Shaw/The Gate
Deanston Guru of the Year	Simon Smith/ Whisky & Cynicism

DRAM Community Pub	Clippens Inn, Linwood – WINNER
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 – WINNER
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 – WINNER
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 – WINNER
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 – WINNER
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 – WINNER
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 – WINNER

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 – WINNER
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 – WINNER

Stoli Sustainability Award	Contini’s Scottish Restaurant, Edinburgh
Stoli Sustainability Award	Eusebi, Glasgow – WINNER
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
The Busker Cocktail Bar of the Year	The Lido, Troon – WINNER

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 – WINNER

SUNDAY MAIL PUB OF THE YEAR	Habbies, Kilbarchan
SUNDAY MAIL PUB OF THE YEAR	The Palais, Glasgow – WINNER
SUNDAY MAIL PUB OF THE YEAR	The Station Bar, Glasgow
SUNDAY MAIL PUB OF THE YEAR	The Waverley, Wishaw

AWARD FOR SUCCESS – Paul Stevenson, Paesano

BUZZWORKS & MONTPELIERS EMERGING ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR – Matt MacPherson, The Malt Room

CONTRIBUTION TO THE INDUSTRY AWARD – Jim Hamilton

DRAM LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – Colin Blair (Buzzworks)

HUNGRR TECHNOLOGY ADOPTER – Scoop Restaurant Group, Glasgow

INSPIRATIONAL WOMAN OF THE YEAR – Giovanna Eusebi, Eusebi Deli

LICENSEE OF THE YEAR – John Black, The Fort, Dundee

SCOTTISH HOSPITALITY GROUP SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD 2022 – David Cochrane, HIT

SCOTTISH BAR & PUB AWARDS TEAM OF THE YEAR – Lisini, Uddingston

WILLIAM GRANT BAR APPRENTICE – Gavin Lidbury, The Finnieston

InterContinental Edinburgh The George appoints new General Manager

InterContinental Edinburgh The George, located in the historic New Town of Edinburgh, has appointed Michael Martin as its new General Manager.

Michael brings more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry including two decades in leadership roles within the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). Previous roles include Regional General Manager and Opening General Manager of InterContinental Dubai Marina, Regional General Manager Singapore, Malaysia and Batam, and General Manager InterContinental Singapore.

He returns to the UK following a 12-year stint overseas, most recently holding the role of General Manager at InterContinental Shenzhen in China.

He will oversee day-to-day operations of the iconic Edinburgh property from guest experience, events, food and beverage at The Printing Press Bar and Kitchen and Burr & Co, as well as leading its award-winning team, maintaining its stature as one of the leading luxury hotels in the city.

Mr Martin takes over from current Cluster General Manager Kieran Quinn who has held the role of GM for both the InterContinental Edinburgh The George and Kimpton Charlotte Square since 2020.

Kieran will move to focus on the Charlotte Square property, but both will work closely together to promote both hotels’ offerings to a global audience.

Originally from Winchester, Michael is a family man and keen golfer.

Michael Martin, General Manager, InterContinental Edinburgh The George, said: “I am delighted and honoured to have been appointed General Manager at such a prestigious Scottish property.

“I’m looking forward to getting started, exploring more of the wonderful city of Edinburgh, and having the opportunity to lead a truly iconic hotel.”

Kieran Quinn, General Manager at Kimpton Charlotte Square and former GM at InterContinental Edinburgh The George, added: “Michael brings a wealth of international experience along with exciting new plans that will preserve the operational excellence that has come to be expected of a stay at InterContinental Edinburgh The George.

“We are looking forward to working together to promote both hotels and Edinburgh and all it has to offer.”

InterContinental Edinburgh The George, a former collection of five Georgian townhouses, is home to 240 rooms and 13 suites as well as seven event spaces which can host up to 300 guests. Situated in the capital of Scotland, the hotel is a 25-minute drive from Edinburgh Airport and a five-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverly station.

For more information, please visit edinburgh.intercontinental.com.

Listen Up: Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel launch the UK’s First Sound Wellness Room

The wild sounds of the world have been captured using revolutionary recording techniques to create the Swell Room, the UK’s First Sound Wellness Room.

Award winning producer Brian D’Souza spent two years developing a new methodology which harnessed the therapeutic nature of sound – bringing together biophilia, music composition and sound therapy to create the Swell Room, the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel’s first dedicated sound treatment offering.

To create the novel sound wellness composition, Brian explored beautiful locations, including a trip to the Hebrides, Lake Geneva, Cape Verde ad Lofoten in the Article Circle, to record sounds of the sea, fields, and natural wildlife.

These nature sounds were then combined with traditional sound treatment instruments including gongs and singing bowls, as well as violins, the Gaelic harp, bagpipes and vocalists – all of which were brought together in a custom-built Swell studio in London.

Guests will recline in an Italian armchair with sinuous lines, which features an anatomic mattress covered in stain-resistant hypoallergenic marine eco-leather. With the equipment’s vibroacoustic delivery, guests will not only be able to hear the sound, but also feel it. The unique and innovative product pairs relaxation, treatments, and sound which elevates the wellness and relaxation area at the Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel Spa.

The tailored therapeutic sound techniques are designed to lower the heart rate, blood pressure and stress, while promoting positive biochemical responses that bring equilibrium to the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system, harnessing the power of sound to affect the listener in a positive sense.

Guests and visitors of the hotel in Edinburgh’s city centre are invited to dedicate time to active listening which promotes restorative deep relaxation and cognitive clarity for a sense of escapism.

Brian D’Souza’s involvement with Kimpton stems from curating the soundtracks for the Hotel over the past 10 years through his business Open Ear, which also works with worldwide brands including Nike and Google and is now the recommended supplier for IHG in the UK.

Drawing on his academic background in Music Psychology with an MA in Psychology, an MSc in Sound Design and training in Sound Therapy, Brian launched a unique 24hr radio station dedicated to improving sleep, focus and relaxation called Ambient Flo during the first lockdown.

Brian D’Souza, founder of Open Ear Music, Ambient Flo and Swell said: “I’ve always been fascinated by how music has the ability to affect our emotional state.

“Whether it brings people together and takes them to a euphoric state at a festival or keeps the drinks flowing in a bar; or it works to reduce heart rate and create a sense of calm – it has a direct correlation with our mood. So, to create The Swell Room, in collaboration with Kimpton Charlotte Square is a real privilege.

“I’ve loved the process of creating this sound treatment, from recording around the world to bringing all the sounds together in my studio, it’s been a really rewarding experience and I’m excited for it to take guests on an immersive journey to a deeply relaxed state.”

Brian has now launched an innovative sound wellness business called Swell. Kimpton Charlotte Square’s Swell Room will be the business’s first dedicated sound treatment venture.

Finlay Anderson, Area Spa and Leisure Director said: “As we emerged out of lockdown, it was clear that our guests craved more of a multi-sensory wellness experience than ever before.

“Evidence shows that more and more people used music for relief and to help improve their mood during lockdowns, so it made perfect sense to collaborate with Brian on the Swell Room to ensure our guests can have a 360 degrees therapeutic experience when visiting Spa at Kimpton Charlotte Square.

“After working with Brian on La Chambre Verte at Kimpton Blythswood Square last year, we are excited to delve deeper into the benefits of sound therapy with our guests at Kimpton Charlotte Square this year.”

The sound wellness treatment at the Swell Room can be added onto the existing treatment menu to create a multi-sensory experience at Spa at Charlotte Square or can be booked as a stand-alone experience.

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