With the announcement that Lebowskis was opening a pop-up in the Southside of Glasgow in May last year, we were excited to see the Kained Holdings' flagship pub chain join the burgeoning Strathbungo scene.
Concerns that it was only to be a temporary take-over of the former Sammy Dows on Nithsdale Road were quickly laid to rest, as the company announced a new 'grown-up version' of the brand was on its way with the arrival of the new Lebowskis South, which would transform the old pub into an excellent new bar and eatery sporting their trademark look and contemporary feel.
James Kemp, Marketing Manager, who is enjoying seeing the project coming together, said: "We're extremely excited to deliver an upgraded, grown up incarnation of The Lebowskis Brand to the southside of Glasgow.
"Locals can expect all of the famous burgers and White Russians, but all taken to the next level. We want people to know that this one represents a new and fresh look with some exciting tricks up our sleeve!"
We've been given a preview of how the new bar will look and we reckon it will be a big hit with not only the brand's current fans but also locals and newcomers alike.
Poring over the illustrations by Paul Martin Design, who will be managing the project, the first thing we noticed was the completely transformed bar area, updating the traditional décor in favour of a cleaner, sharper aesthetic but retaining gorgeous wood panelling to keep that homely mix of local pub and modern bar.
The unit will also feature an expanded seating area, with more windows being to added, to create more light and a brighter feel.
It also looks like high-backed leather seats have been added to the seating area to give an extra hit of opulence as you sample the newly-extended range of beers and cocktails that will be on offer.
A massive galley-style open kitchen has also been added, with customers now being able to watch the chefs prepare their food. Brand new toilets have also been put in to keep in touch with modernisation of the bar.
Lebowskis bars are famed across the Central Belt for their cocktails but it is its signature cocktail, the White Russian, that really is the star of the show.
Taking inspiration from the film after which they are named, the Lebowskis bars offer over 25 different White Russians, which will take more than a few visits to get through, but trust us it is definitely worth trying them all.
Interestingly, Lebowskis South is set to step out from the shadow of its forebears with a new list of 'premium' White Russians, which we have been told will be "bigger, more elaborate and over the top".
Not to be left behind, their classic cocktails range is also going to be upgraded as the team behind the bar take a fresh approach to their cocktail offerings.
We are told the new cocktail list will be varied and constantly adapted to change with the seasons, trends and new ideas from the experienced staff.
They will also be utilising Lebowskis South's very own herb garden to make fresh ingredients and use for garnishes.
There is also talk of a brand new bespoke beer brewed exclusively for Kained by West Brewery - but that's supposed to be a secret so you didn't hear it from us.
As well as the wow-factor burgers Lebowskis are famed for - including the outrageously good 'Big Lebowski’ - LS will be focusing on delivering weekly seasonal and local specials.
One thing's for sure, we can't wait to see the finished product.
• Lebowskis South will open soon on the site of the old Sammy Dows at 69-71 Nithsdale Rd, Glasgow, G41 2AJ
