The much-anticipated Glasgow Bar Awards 2024, oft referred to in the industry as ‘Glasgow’s BAFTAs For Bartending,’ has unveiled its impressive long list of 150 nominees across various categories. 15 local bars are currently in the running for Bar of the Year, a category that's distinct from Glasgow Pub of the year and includes some of the city's top cocktail destinations, stylish lounges and whisky hangouts.
With public nominations shaping this initial list, a panel of judges will further refine it to the top 5 finalists later this month. The final winners will be revealed in a grand celebration at The Bartender’s Ball which also plays host to awards in February.
With hundreds of entries so far, voting is still open across 10 cool categories including best bar, best cocktail, unsung hero and hospitality legend. If your favourite didn’t make the long list cut, simply nominate your favourite online by midnight on Monday, January 22.
Previous winners include Andy Gemmell, owner of top neighbourhood bar The Gate, Geraldine Murphy from whisky pub The Pot Still, secret speakeasy and bartenders from Tiki Bar.
Established in January 2021, the third Glasgow Bar Awards will take place at the lavish Bartenders Ball - a grand annual bash to support anyone working in the trade, to be held at Saint Luke's on Monday, 12th February 2024.
The Glasgow Bar Awards invites nominations from any licensed premises within the G postcode. Winners will be selected after a judging process involving industry votes and an expert judging panel. You can vote online here.
Tickets for The Bartenders Ball include complimentary food and drink, entertainment and cost £20 - you can buy tickets here.
1. The Absent Ear
The hidden Merchant City cocktail bar inspired by Van Gogh, The Absent Ear, was named on the Glasgow Bar Awards 2024 longlist.
2. Anchor Line
The Anchor Line in the Merchant City is known for its cocktail bar.
3. Charlie Browns
Charlie Browns, the speakeasy cocktail bar on Victoria Road is a recent arrival on the local bar scene.
4. Chinaskis
Chinaskis by Charing Cross is a longstanding feature of Glasgow nightlife.