Glasgow’s vibrant bar scene is heading back into the spotlight as nominations officially open for the fourth annual Glasgow Bar Awards.
From iconic institutions to rising stars, the search is on to find the bars, pubs, and hospitality heroes that make Glasgow great.
Nominations are officially open, inviting the public and the industry to highlight where they have seen excellence in creativity, service, and drinks culture.
To vote for your favourite places and people, go to the form on the Glasgow Bar Awards website.
Votes are open to any licensed premises within the G postcode, and winners will be decided through a combination of industry and public votes early next year.
For 2025, the awards expand to 12 categories – with new additions including ‘best late bar’ and ‘best restaurant bar’. These join returning favourites like ‘best cocktail’ and the hotly contested ‘best bar’.
Established in 2021, The Glasgow Bar Awards was created to celebrate the ‘characters, venues, and creative talent’ that make Glasgow an unparalleled drinks destination.
Last year’s award winners included community favourite Redmond’s of Dennistoun winning ‘best pub’, the elegant Jack’s Bar at Dakota winning ‘best bar’, and standout bars like Tabac and La Jupe in Helensburgh.
This year’s Glasgow Bar Awards ceremony will again be held at the Bartender’s Ball – a night dedicated to hospitality professionals which takes place at Saint Luke’s on Monday, 17th February 2025.
Described as a ‘must-attend event’ for anyone in the trade, from bartenders to brand ambassadors, the £30 ticket includes premium drinks, and smoked barbeque classics from the kitchen in Saint Luke’s & the Winged Ox, live music and entertainment.
Both the Ball and the Bar Awards are organised by Backs! Hospitality, a community interest company founded by David Smillie and Alex Riches.
Proceeds from ticket sales support initiatives for the next generation of bartending talent, including training, mentoring, and networking opportunities.
