A new bar and tapas kitchen promising to shake up the Shawlands nightlife scene is set to open this month.
From dedicated jazz and soul nights to cosy spaces to sit back and enjoy a bespoke cocktail, there's plenty to look forward to as we welcome G41 to the neighbourhood.
In an exclusive preview, owner Jamie Aitken gave the Glasgow Times a tour of his new venture and spoke of his ambitious plans for the space.
He said: “The whole idea is that we want to be a triple threat.
“I’ve worked at many bars over the years that have been really good at drinks, food or music but never all three.
“That’s what we’re trying to create.
“We’ve nailed it with the food and our cocktails and I’ve pulled in DJs from across the country for the music side of things.
“I’m hopeful that it will work.”
The G41 Bar and Tapas Kitchen will open in mid-August in a distinctive glass-fronted unit at 87 Kilmarnock Road that is well known for having changed hands frequently in recent years.
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From a list that includes the Hickory Steakhouse, craft beer and burger joint Sweet Recreation and most recently, Irish bar Paddy Losty’s, many have tried to put their own stamp on the Southside spot.
As a veteran DJ and the former owner of nearby brunch spot La Mediterranea, Jamie is confident that his unique vision for the bar will see them buck the trend and stand the test of time in their new home.
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He said: “I’ve wanted to get my hands on this unit for a long, long time.
“Now that I’ve managed to get it, I really hope that it works.
“There are plenty of great boozers in Shawlands, but not many places that you can go for a night out.
“You see a lot of places that are amazing for hosting trad sessions or more alternative nights but nowhere for a mix of disco, house, jazz or soul.
“I asked myself, is it because no one wants it or because no one had tried it before?"
Work to use the stunning split-level space to its full potential is well now well under way as Jamie and his team prepare to welcome their first customers.
An upgraded DJ booth and stage have been installed on the ground floor while upstairs sees a new bar designed for cocktail masterclasses and high stools perfect for people watching on the busy street below.
A sneak peek at the menu tells us to expect Mediterranean delights like crispy manchego bites or calamari fritti to be enjoyed while sipping an ice-cold tipple.
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With a lively launch night party soundtracked by legendary DJ Yogi Haughton looms closer, Jamie said: “I’m trying not to think that far ahead to be honest.
"It’s all about taking things one step at a time until we get there.
“We’re hoping that it will be busy and that everyone will have a great night.
“It will be exciting for me at least because I’ll be on the other side of the bar for once.”
G41 will open with a launch night party on Saturday, August 13.
For more information follow them on social media here.
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