Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Café Wins Prestigious Legend Award in 2025
The Glasgow Bar Awards, hosted by Backs! Hospitality, has become a staple event in the vibrant city’s social calendar over the past four years. This year’s ceremony featured a total of 12 categories, showcasing the diverse and thriving bar scene in Glasgow. New additions like Best Late Night Bar and Best Restaurant Bar joined returning favorites such as Best Cocktail and the highly sought-after Best Bar accolade.
Among the esteemed winners, the Legend award was bestowed upon Barry and Kirstie Oattes, the dynamic husband-and-wife team behind the beloved Kelvingrove Café. The Absent Ear clinched the title of Best Bar, while Kitty O’Shea’s was crowned the Best Pub. The atmosphere was electric as the winners were announced, with cheers and applause filling the venue.
Reflecting on their remarkable achievement, Kirstie Oattes expressed her gratitude, stating, “We are incredibly touched and want to thank everyone involved, especially those who have been part of Kelvingrove Café throughout the years.” The sense of community and connection within Glasgow’s bar industry was palpable, underscoring the significance of these awards in celebrating excellence and camaraderie.
David Smillie, co-founder of the Glasgow Bar Awards, commended the city’s bar scene, remarking, “The level of talent and dedication in Glasgow’s bar scene is truly outstanding.” He extended his appreciation to all the participants, winners, and attendees, emphasizing the collective effort that makes the event a resounding success year after year.
### A Night of Celebration and Recognition
The 2025 Glasgow Bar Awards showcased the best and brightest in the city’s hospitality industry, with winners spanning various categories that highlighted the diversity and innovation within the bar scene. From classic cocktail bars to late-night hotspots, each establishment brought its unique flair and charm to the table, creating a rich tapestry of experiences for patrons to enjoy.
Barry and Kirstie Oattes’ win in the Legend category was a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. Their journey from humble beginnings to receiving one of the most prestigious awards in the industry is a story of passion, hard work, and a genuine love for the craft of bartending. As patrons of Kelvingrove Café, we have witnessed firsthand the dedication and warmth that Barry and Kirstie bring to their establishment, making it a beloved fixture in the local community.
The camaraderie and friendly competition among the nominees and winners added an extra layer of excitement to the evening, demonstrating the strong bonds that exist within Glasgow’s bar community. Each award presented was met with cheers and applause, underscoring the spirit of support and admiration that permeates the industry.
### Looking Towards the Future
As the curtain closed on the 2025 Glasgow Bar Awards, attendees were already buzzing with anticipation for the next edition. The bar scene in Glasgow continues to evolve and innovate, pushing boundaries and setting new standards for excellence. The recognition bestowed upon Barry and Kirstie Oattes, Absent Ear, and Kitty O’Shea’s serves as inspiration for aspiring bartenders and pub owners, encouraging them to strive for greatness and leave their mark on the vibrant city’s nightlife landscape.
The Glasgow Bar Awards have become a hallmark event that celebrates the talent, creativity, and passion that define the city’s bar scene. As we raise a toast to all the winners and participants, we are reminded of the profound impact that bars and pubs have on our lives, bringing people together, creating memories, and fostering a sense of belonging. Here’s to many more years of outstanding hospitality and unforgettable experiences in Glasgow’s thriving bar community.
