DEEP in Glasgow’s west end, Dumbarton Road’s renaissance continues with the arrival of South African-inspired bar BRU.
Opening today (November 30), the venture is the brainchild of former Ziques assistant manager Bradley Potterton, and occupies the spot once familiar as the St Louis Cafe at Dumbarton Road’s Thornwood end.
Customers can expect brunch, small plates and gourmet pizzas on its gastropub-style menu, which will champion local produce and seasonal ingredients, while elements of the offering will take inspiration from South African-born Bradley’s homeland.
The 43-year-old, who spent time working in bars and restaurants in Australia and London before ending up in Glasgow, named BRU after the term used to describe a close friend in South Africa.
His vision is to create a ‘home away from home’ for the local community while showcasing local suppliers, musicians, and artists.
Brad said: “We want to bring the industry together and support the best of Glasgow’s incredible food and drink scene.
“I want this to be the community’s third place, a home away from home. There’s home, there’s work, and then there’s BRU.
“The support from the industry and public has been amazing,” he added. “From connecting with local suppliers the minute we decided to open, to getting to know the characters of Thornwood and beyond. People have been asking what we’re up to: there’s a genuine interest and people want to support any way they can. We’re excited we can now, finally, welcome everyone in.”
The kitchen team will be led by head chef Scott Barron, who was most recently based at The Gallery restaurant in Tobermory. Customers will be able to sample a Glasgow take on the South African favourite, the Bunnychow: a hollowed out loaf of bread that’s usually filled with curry, which will be served in a morning roll with a fried egg during breakfast service.
Also on offer will be pints from Overtone brewery and Williams Brothers, coffee from Good Coffee Cartel, milk from Mossgiel Organic Farm, ceramics from Pots from Scots, eggs from Corrie Mains Farm, bread from Soja’s Bakehouse as well as exciting dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Brad also plans to source and supply biltong – South African cured meat – which will feature on the late night menu on sharing style meat and cheese boards. Meanwhile, the wine list will feature specially selected African organic wines.
BRU will also showcase prints and paintings by local artists and flowers from She Bloomin’ Gathered, with plans to host open mic nights for up and coming talent.
The 50-capacity venue will offer relaxed dining from 9am until 9pm, open from Wednesday to Monday, giving westenders a new brunch option on their doorstep.
The launch of BRU comes amid significant regeneration along Dumbarton Road, following a spate of recent openings from nearby GaGa to Eighty Six in Partick.
Brad commented: “Opening a bar during this time of economic unrest is obviously a concern, but with the increase in working from home, more people are spending more time within their own community, which is why areas like Thornwood and Patrick are exploding with exciting new venues.
“People are also aware of the impact of their buying decisions: they want to support ethical, local suppliers, which is something that’s very important to us.
“We’re confident our community-focused vibe will be the perfect laidback venue for people to unwind. We believe BRU can be a big part of Thornwood as it continues to become one of the best places to eat and drink in the city.”
