Sebb’s, Absent Ear, Kelvingrove Cafe, Gaga and more top Glasgow Bar Awards

February 18, 2025

A stage full of well dressed young people celebrate — Assembled on stage, the winners of the 2025 Glasgow Bar Awards

Over 350 members of Glasgow’s licensed trade gathered at Saint Luke’s & The Winged Ox last night to celebrate the best in the business with the 2025 Glasgow Bar Awards.

The fourth annual awards ceremony, held as part of the Glasgow Bartenders Ball, highlighted the resilience, creativity, and excellence at work within Glasgow’s dynamic bar scene.

This year saw 12 categories, including new additions such as Best Late Night Bar and Best Restaurant Bar, alongside trade favourites like Best Cocktail and the coveted Best Bar award.

Two men and a burlesque dancer hold an outsized charity cheque — A £500 donation was made to The Ben

For the first time, The Glasgow Bar Awards 2025 also made a £500 donation to The Ben Society Scotland, supporting the hospitality community across the country.

Barry and Kirstie Oattes, the husband-and-wife duo behind Kelvingrove Café, were honoured with the Legend Award, whilst Absent Ear took home the title of Best Bar and Kitty O’Sheas with Best Pub Award.

Speaking about the Legend Award, Kirstie Oattes said: “We are incredibly touched and want to thank everyone involved, especially those who have been part of Kelvingrove Café throughout the years.”

A well dressed couple receive an award. — Legend Award winners Kirstie and Barry Oates

Both the Ball and the awards are organised by Backs! Hospitality, who arranged live music from Borrowed Blues, burlesque dancers, great drinks and BBQ food from The Winged Ox’s recently elevated menu.

Co-founder David Smillie said: “The Glasgow Bar Awards continue to go from strength to strength, and this year has been our biggest and best yet.

“The level of talent and dedication in Glasgow’s bar scene is truly outstanding. A huge thank you to everyone who voted, our winners, and to all those who joined us to celebrate.