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The owners of popular Glasgow bars The Raven, Smokin’ Fox and The Spiritualist acquired the site in March and have just completed a £650,000 refurbishment of the popular venue with a view to re-opening by the middle of this month.
The bar, which has built up a large loyal following over the past 10 years, has become something of an institution in the southside, and Signature pubs are hoping to honour that legacy with a reinvigorated approach to food, beverage, entertainment and atmosphere.
The team have just released their food menu, which features classic dishes like beef and ale pie and fish and chips sitting alongside more modern examples like the beer glazed roast cauliflower (which we can confirm is delicious), curried lamb croquettes and haggis lollipops.
Picture: Signature Pubs
The drinks menu has also been tweaked by the team at The Spiritualist with a focus on a wide range of spirits, classic cocktails and local craft beers. With the newly launched Cold Town Beer, a lager brewed for them by their own in-house brewery, getting a dedicated tap behind the bar.
The new Cold Town Lager. Picture: TSPL
A dedicated section for coffee has been created at the bar where customers can get their java fix as well as enjoy cakes from local producer the Big Bear Bakery.
The inside of the bar has been completely revamped with the raised area pushed back to allow more room for the bar, as well as the roof being raised to make the room "less claustrophobic", according to area manager Shaun Donnellan, who explained that it also allows for more light from the full length stain glass windows.
The bar area is now much bigger. Picture: TSPL
There are plenty of dedicated screens in the main bar area for those looking to enjoy live sport while the raised section can cater for a different crowd who are wanting to dine or enjoy a lounge atmosphere with soft furnishings having been added to make it more comfortable.
The external seating area has been given a refresh, with plans for a children's play area and more seating already in the works.
The second floor of the building will also be looked at in their future plans and could be used as an events area.
A family focus will also play a big role in the new pub’s ethos, with a children’s menu and the proposed play area on offer to keep the kids happy, while dogs will also be welcome and will even have their very own ‘Wall of Fame’, with a Dog of the Month announced on Facebook and Doggy Pawsecco on offer at the bar.
The pub will also have a book exchange, live music on weekends and intends to play a big part with local community groups.
Shaun said: “Glasgow’s southside is an area so full of pride, talent and creativity, so it’s crucial to us to ensure the ‘spirit of the southside’ remains firmly at the heart of this project.
“It has always been important to us that we support local, independent businesses where possible, so we are looking to engage in sponsorship opportunities with community sports teams and to provide long-term contributions to local charities. We’re also excited to say that we will be a host venue for 2018’s Southside Fringe!”
