New bar duke street
Gavin posted on the 24/04/2014 1:12:47 PM
Hi everyone,
I am considering taking over the new variety bar on duke street but would want to change it from its current guise completely.
My question is really what do you think you would like to see here?
My initial thoughts are to offer food, nothing too spectacular, but home and well made. Then offer good beers, wines, cocktails and whiskys.
Like I said, it's purely at a speculative stage at present, but any feedback to the type of place you would like to see. Any and all suggestions/feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks
Gavin
Ps if we do go ahead, I'll shout all who offer some input their first tipple! ;)
- 88 Replies :
#1 - MGM replied on the 24/04/2014 5:11:29 PM
Please have a look at the bars around finnieston.. Kelvingrove cafe, The Finnieston. somewhere with decent food, lighting. Tibo but more pub like would be fine... just not another old man boozer!
#2 - anon replied on the 24/04/2014 5:30:50 PM
Dennistoun needs a bar.
Successive owners of the Variety bar (a cracking bar in terms of size and layout) have gone for the cheap and cheerful crowd. This predictably attracted a sometimes dodgy crowd (I witnessed a terrible fight spilling out of there one night, apparently someone had been stabbed).
As MGM says, emulate one of the bars in Finnieston. Laid back, good drink, chea**** bar food, good music etc. 13th note (but with meat), The Hope, The Admiral..that kind of thing.
Good luck and please please do go for it.
#3 - PMC replied on the 24/04/2014 5:35:25 PM
There's a real need for a decent pub in the Dennistoun area. I have never been in any of the current ones, as they all look pretty dodgy. They may be OK, but I'm not for finding out. Have a look at what's currently on offer locally and do something different. Something like Tennents on Byres Road, The Granary in Shawlands or the Kirkhouse in Shettleston are all good examples of what a decent pub should be like. You want to appeal to all the students and professional types that live locally. Avoid karaoke, but you could have good quality entertainment occasionally, like comedy nights. The problem you will have is finding the right clientele. Good luck!!
#4 - Anon replied on the 24/04/2014 7:37:33 PM
Couldn't agree more with PMC, Dennistoun needs a decent pub, one that would appeal to all ages, whilst we have a few nice restaurants, it would be great to have somewhere decent that you could go and have a drink/cocktail rather than have to travel into town.
#5 - Mort replied on the 24/04/2014 7:50:37 PM
Yeah, I would agree with MGM completely in saying that one of the Finnieston bars might be a good model. Whenever anyone takes over the New Variety they just cater for the sort of people that have plenty of the traditional East End pubs to choose from already. It's always been said that West would open something up but I know a lot of that is just wishful thanking. Tibo and West both attract a good crowd so it can be done out East. Tibo is just too food oriented to consider it a place to go for a drink. You always feel a bit guilty when they bring the menu over and you just say you want a couple of beers or wines. Maybe that's just me and I'm doing Tibo a disservice. Anyway, I know for a fact there's money to be made from this type of bar in Dennistoun. I know there's plenty of Dennistonians who jump a taxi down to Mono or Metropolitan. A nice bar on your door step and you'd prefer a nice walk home after it instead of playing hunt the taxi.
#6 - Suz replied on the 24/04/2014 8:52:37 PM
Make it dog-friendly and I'll be there.
#7 - loui replied on the 24/04/2014 9:24:46 PM
Agree with all previous comments, Dennistoun really needs a nice pub, good luck if you decide to go for it.
#8 - anon replied on the 24/04/2014 11:18:21 PM
Merchant city type bars should expand into Dennistoun!
#9 - Ami replied on the 24/04/2014 11:19:20 PM
I agree with all the previous comments. We definitely need somewhere like this. We tend to spend a fortune in Tibo just so we can have a nice bottle of wine rather than take a taxi to town. I do believe from the offset you have to get the marketing right so you quickly establish the correct clientèle. I'm all for it and would gladly drink there...
#10 - Gavin replied on the 25/04/2014 11:50:12 AM
Guys,
Thanks so much for the feedback! All of your comments are just backing up the very reason I want to do it!
I am in much agreement that tibo is an institution for food but there isn't a similar, comfortable place serving good drinks in a nice surrounding.
I'm not sure if anyone knows it, but the Bungo in the south side is the kind of place I had envisioned. Relaxed vibe, fresh ingredients, good range of wines, good cocktail list-and maybe even dog friendly!
I have a meeting arrAnged soon to see if it viable, so please continue to offer ideas, as I may well be looking for them very soon!
I'm an old school hospitality man-it's all about the customers enjoyment!
Thanks again
Gavin
#11 - local replied on the 25/04/2014 3:42:18 PM
Dont think having dogs where food is available would be a good idea.The main problem would be the clientele, get that right and you would have a successful bar.
#12 - MGM replied on the 25/04/2014 10:05:26 PM
you wouldn't go wrong if you used Stravaigen as a model...
#13 - Morgan Spice replied on the 25/04/2014 10:06:57 PM
I have friends Southside and all they rave about is 'The Bungo'. I've been over a few times and really liked it. Â Think it's owned by the same people who have 'The Left Bank' in Gibson Street. They are also raving about the 'Allison Arms' which I think may have been refurbished but it certainly has it's fill of getman beers. Â If I want a drink here then I go to Tibo but sometimes we've had to order some nibbles in order to secure the table. Â Can't blame them. Â There's a few sets of 'mum' groups here who like to drink locally as we don't go out till the kids are settled in bed. Â I would definately frequent said pub if it changes over. Â Good Luck and look forward to having a drink there!
#14 - Dan replied on the 25/04/2014 10:07:42 PM
Stravagian allows dogs and serves food and they do just fine
#15 - lady dennistoun replied on the 25/04/2014 11:13:55 PM
Dogs? Really? I think Gavin's idea of a Tibo-esque bar for Dennistoun sounds fantastic and something that is much overdue. However, spending so much time navigating dog mess on the pavements and being unable to enjoy any of Dennistoun's limited green spaces as they have been comandeered as dog bogs means that the idea of having to share a pub with folks' mutts is liable to put many of the very folk you are seeking to attract right off. If you want to offer a genuine alternative to the Merchant City or South Side pandering to the Fido lobby will more than likely result in the venture becoming the old man boozer or shady shellsuit & pit bull dive that are already prominent in the area.
#16 - anon replied on the 25/04/2014 11:15:37 PM
Agree with all of above but NO dogs
#17 - anon replied on the 26/04/2014 1:01:48 AM
i'm not a dog owner but i love seeing people in for a quiet pint with their dog. I used to live near the Crosslands in Maryhill and people were always in with their dogs. It was great seeing them lounging about.
Anyway, Gavin, the Bungo is the perfect shout. Great lazy brunches at the weekend, decent lunches, good affordable food and a specific bar so you don't feel guilty  if you only want a drink.
I'd personally drop any entertainment. I normally avoid pubs with something on as i'm normally going to enjoy friends company not listent to a third rate singer/comedian. Same with music that drowns out conversation.
Is that pub a tied pub? If so it might be difficult to make decent changes unfortunately.
#18 - Suz replied on the 26/04/2014 1:05:11 AM
"Pandering to the Fido lobby"??? Have you ever been to West? Or, as someone says, Stravaigin or Tennent's or any number of other West End/Country pubs? Something tells me you don't have a dog if you think the place will be filled with pit bulls (which, by the way, are perfectly friendly wee dogs blighted by bad owners). The ignorance of some folk depresses me, and there are plenty of places that are dog free. There are also plenty of owners who pick up after their dogs - try not to be so small minded.
#19 - anon _l replied on the 26/04/2014 11:17:35 AM
I don't have a dog and don't mind dogs in pubs...only if the pub is big enough. Like West. I hate being in smaller pubs with dogs everywhere and by the sounds of it, this new one isn't going to be big enough and I'm afraid it would put me off. As would, as someone else said, 3rd entertainment. I think it's very hard to get this right.
#20 - jess replied on the 26/04/2014 11:18:33 AM
Hello, this all sounds great. A good range of drinks and basic simple food. Most importantly I think you need some tunes. Possibly a juke box? Helps with the atmosphere.
#21 - lady dennistoun replied on the 26/04/2014 3:29:21 PM
Folks, I'm so pleased that there's a lot of support for what Gavin is proposing. Â Having lived in Dennistoun my whole life, I've often wished for this very type of pub to open in the area. Â Let's hope it comes to fruition.
Suz, I presume that I am one of those who displays "ignorance" and am "small minded" because I dared to suggest that a number of people would be put off by the presence of dogs in a pub. Â This, along with my failure to love pit bulls "depresses" you. Â I suggest you need to get a sense of perspective and focus your ire on things which really should depress you, such as the police failure to tackle burglaries in the area; the lack of investment in the East End; global warming; the potential outbreak of World War III in the Ukraine/Russia...
Perhaps directing some of your irritation towards the "bad owners", who don't clean up after their pets (of which, unfortunately, there are many in the area), or those who fail to train/care for their pet properly, would be more appropriate, as it is these people that spoil perceptions to the detriment of the majority of responsible owners and their pets.
As you rightly state, West is already dog-friendly and manages to be both an attractive destination and a thriving business. it is also local enough to walk to with your dog, so the option of having the type of bar Gavin is proposing already exists for you Suz. Â However, thanks for your input - next time I'm looking to patronised for offering my thoughts (which was what the thread was asking for), I'll be sure to contact you.
#22 - riva replied on the 26/04/2014 6:21:51 PM
I hope you have success if you take on the Variety, however you may wish to consider that there are sound and noise insulation difficulties between the bar and the flats above. This may either cost you money to improve if you want to have music etc. This issue has caused many problems in the past for all the recent owners and tenents of the flats. This is an historical thing as originally the pub landlord and brewery workers lived in the flats above the pub so noise from downstairs wasn't an issue. It woudl be a pity if you plowed in money and time only to be thwarted by poor noise insulation so check it out. regards R
#23 - Lainy replied on the 26/04/2014 11:40:37 PM
Dog friendly is a great idea just what Dennisroun needs! Â There are lots of Cosmopolitan Bars that allow dogs just check out 'Dugs n Pubs. The Bungo is a fab model to use bar fab where the dogs are & a separate area for formal dining.
#24 - Lynn replied on the 26/04/2014 11:41:50 PM
One more on the topic of dog friendly pubs. My husband and I are preparing to adopt a dog. We're making a list of all of the dog friendly pubs Glasgow has to offer and plan to only frequent dog friendly establishments. Â With our dog, of course... Â :-)
#25 - Morgan Spice replied on the 26/04/2014 11:43:18 PM
I agree with no dogs as personally I would be put off by a dog being there as I am scared of dogs. Â No offence but why can't folk leave their dogs at home. Â When I go out for a drink I have to leave my kids at home (not alone of course!). Â It's quite simple. Â A decent place with decent music, beer and food. Â If I drink in town I go to 'The Lab'. Â A West type place which is on my doorstep.
#26 - Piranhafi replied on the 26/04/2014 11:44:40 PM
I would certainly appreciate a dog friendly pub within walking distance . And I am neither an old man nor a shady shell suit wearer! I am a professional person who is a responsible dog owner- always clean up after my dog. As for local park being over run with dogs, i can visit at times and see no other dogs or people. However the parks are for everyone's use and there is plenty space for all to enjoy.
I would be pleased if you considered a dog friendly policy, however wish you all the best in your venture whatever model you decide
#27 - local replied on the 27/04/2014 9:50:43 AM
Was wondering if the pub would be cat friendly too, I have a lovely persian cat and she loves meeting people.Seriously folks pets are best at home pubs are for people,Ifor one dont want to look at someone elses pet while im sipping my cocktail.this is a tiny bar compared with others mentioned.Plenty of other pubs around here to take your pet into and there all empty.
#28 - biker replied on the 27/04/2014 10:51:45 AM
No dogs please. Lets have a decent pub serving good drink at sensible prices. Whatever you do, NO karaoke please.
#29 - Malarki replied on the 27/04/2014 10:19:08 PM
I'm not a dog owner but have no problems with people bringing their dogs to pubs - as long as they are under control and well-behaved. I take the same attitude to children in pubs.
I have more of a problem with music in pubs - one person's good music is another's idea of dross. I go to Mono, 13th Note, Stereo, etc., partly because of the type of music played in them but I know others might avoid them for exactly the same reasons. If you are going to have music (and insulation is then a factor of course) then you need to think through your music policy as it may affect the clientele you get.
#30 - CB replied on the 29/04/2014 12:35:40 PM
Gavin,
Been waiting for someone to do something like this since I moved east 7 yrs ago! The Bungo is awesome and was only in it for the first time last weekend.
Go for it, you'll have my support!
C
#31 - Anon replied on the 30/04/2014 10:35:03 AM
I think this is a great idea, however, most of the pubs in this area are tied to the brewers so you are very limited in what you can do with the place. I hope this won't be the case as Dennistoun needs somewhere nice like this.
#32 - Lou replied on the 30/04/2014 5:32:50 PM
Gavin, Please go for it! Dennistoun is in such need of a nice place to have a drink (that isn't an intimidating smelly old man's pub with bars over the windows) To add my 2 cents to the argument - allowing dogs would absolutely put a lot of people off including me!
#33 - Jen replied on the 30/04/2014 10:16:11 PM
Yes! A nice friendly bar with craft beers and decent atmosphere would be exactly what the area needs. I hope you go ahead with this. I've often wondered why no one has done this, it seems like there is something weird going on that makes it very difficult for new businesses to open, unless they're a hairdressers or beauty salon.
#34 - Ramble replied on the 1/05/2014 6:33:40 AM
I think 'variety' would be the key. For example I'd like to see some integration with the music scene, not generic cover bands but acoustic artists playing original material. I understand this wouldn't be to everyone's taste but putting on a couple of nights a month could draw in people from west/south side etc if it's done the right way. It could help set the tone of the place for the future but used sparingly to avoid alienating your average local who just wants a beer and some decent banter.
The main thing would be to keep the bams, neds and drouths out. There's plenty of places that cater for them at present.
#35 - Kristen replied on the 1/05/2014 4:00:27 PM
A decent pub quiz with a variety of questions (not all of us know about sport!) and if you can offer a decent cocktail list - I'm there!
I like the idea of it being dog-friendly however I'd be worried it would just take one dog to get a bit riled up and to try and attack another/someone else for it to ruin the fun...could also impact negatively on you and the pub...so I'd be tempted to steer clear!
#36 - triangle replied on the 1/05/2014 10:35:29 PM
An East End version of The 78 on Kelvinhaugh Street (a sister bar to Stereo and Mono in the city centre) is what I'd go for.
I appreciate great food, live music, pub quizes, a spot of karaoke, and watching a game of footy but I wouldn't bother with any of them in any new Dennistoun venture (especially the latter). Firstly because all of those things are provided by some other pub on Duke St - if people want those things, they're already adequately catered for. Secondly because it's very hard to get those things wrong, and very easy to do them in a naff way.
If you want to fill the glaringly obvious bar-shaped hole in Dennistoun, just have a good selection of drinks and nail the vibe by having a basic but styled decor and a decent (but unobtrusive) soundtrack.
If you get those things right, the dog thing becomes moot.
I await the upcoming opening of the Tennent's/Williams Bros venture with interest - curious that they've built up a new venue rather than just re-fit and re-open the pub on the corner of Duke Street and Hunter Street (which I'm slightly surprised hasn't found someone willing to take a punt on with all those students so close by in new accommodation and the rest of Duke St being spruced up etc).
#37 - PH replied on the 2/05/2014 12:43:41 AM
triangle, Unless he's sold it, the pub on the corner of Duke Street/Hunter Street belongs to a developer.
Used to come into my old work and buy coffee, he was working on something on the Parade at the time. He told me he was going to turn it into a Spar, but this was over 2 years ago, before Morrison's opened, so I doubt he's going to do that anymore.
Gavin a nice pub would be great! I've been in Dennistoun 3 years and I've not been into any of the pubs (unless you count Tibo) because I was never sure of the crowd and didn't want to get into bother. I have a load of friends living in Dennistoun and we all drink in the City Center, it'd be great to have somewhere on our doorstep we could meet and drink with like-minded people.
#38 - JM replied on the 2/05/2014 11:18:23 AM
Maybe some of you should try The Snug on Duke Street it's a lovely wee pub with nice people and staff - go try it you wont be disappointed
#39 - johnny-b replied on the 2/05/2014 11:18:58 AM
how many times have folk walked by the ladywell bar its got everything that folk have been asking for in this post pop in and try it sometime
#40 - JM replied on the 2/05/2014 11:49:43 AM
the ladywell is a bit out of the way for me and i find it a bit creepy and dark along that end
#41 - Twecharbeach replied on the 2/05/2014 10:36:03 PM
A proper bar would be great. Bungo, left bank
Kelvingrove Cafe etc
I also like the belle on Great Western Road.
I know so many folk so get taxis west or into
city centre.
Tibo is great at what it does.
A pub quiz would be great.
All the best!
#42 - Malarki replied on the 3/05/2014 7:32:31 PM
The Duke Bar seems to be available to let too. I have been in there once for a swift pint while waiting for a take out. Can't say was to my taste but didn't feel intimidated either. What would be good for Dennistoun is a choice of pubs, so whether you want to take your dog or not, whether you want sports or not, whether you like karaoke, pub quizs, cheesey music , etc. or not, you've got somewhere to go out for a drink without having to tramp into town. We've got a choice of cafes, Italian restaurants, hairdressers, betting shops and tanning saloons, so why not a choice of pubs?
#43 - lawrence replied on the 6/05/2014 10:27:02 PM
I have stayed in dennistoun for forty years and have visited all the pubs in duke st without being abused or attacked ,i resent people moving here within 5 to ten years and telling the local people they want duke st to be more like the west end  I would.nt let my dog stay in the west end  far too many dodgy people stay there ,mills bar is to be turned into a bar restaraunt so maybe this will keep the people who have just moved here happy or they could just go back to where they came from
#44 - anon _l replied on the 7/05/2014 6:33:10 AM
Lawrence, absolutely no need for that post. I'd like to think it was tongue in cheek, but sadly it probably isn't. Maybe your the type people are intimidated by when they go into the current pubs? There's nothing wrong with a bit of change. People are always going on here about supporting local businesses but it you feel unwelcome and intimated then those places won't get support.
The east end is changing and with new pubs etc, it's changing for the better.
#45 - The Mentalist replied on the 7/05/2014 11:11:43 AM
Lawrence does have a point, albeit not what everyone wants to hear. Â There is a place for all types of pubs. Â If you do want a west end type pub, then the west end is 10 minutes away by train. Â If you want a quiet pint, then there should be a place for that too. Â There are certain places that are intimidating and there is no place for "football" pubs, of which there are too many in Dennistoun.
#46 - Kenny replied on the 7/05/2014 11:13:35 AM
I echo the previous post and would add that I don't like the standard comment from Lawrence of "go back where they came from" which is the usual tripe from the UKIP party. Having been in a few of dennistoun's bars and made to feel unwelcome as the regulars stare at you and like to pass comment on your style of dress or general look, Â they are frightened of change and are at times stuck in the past with their pints of cheap lager and pork scratchings.
The west end has some areas that are not great but none passes judgement when you walk into a bar and you can even speak to strangers without a fight breaking out.
I know I am generalising a bit but having lived in the east end for 40yrs I welcome the change as it drags the east end of of the social past that it currently resides in.
Dennistoun is a good area and having more friendly and safer venues attracts more people with money to invest and makes the place better.
#47 - David replied on the 7/05/2014 2:09:27 PM
While I'm as wary as anyone about the west-endification of Dennistoun, I don't think Duke St is in any danger of turning into Byres Rd in the near future.
That said, there are lots of people who live here who aren't being catered for by the pubs we have, so somewhere a bit different can only be a good thing. Â There are still plenty of traditional pubs for Lawrence to go to.
#48 - anon replied on the 7/05/2014 2:28:18 PM
We need to separate out the 'west-endification' of Dennistoun from wanting some decent modern bars.
Lawrence, i find your attitude very sad. You appear to think that because you've lived in Dennistoun for 40 years you have more right than someone who has lived here only 5. This is absolute nonsence. Â The only reason Dennistoun is currently thriving is because new people have moved to the area and opened businesses.
If you want to remain sentimental for dingy bars with blacked out windows that only offer pies and beans and seem to close down and change hands every other month then so be it.
I for one would be happy for a more diverse array of bars to open so that Dennistoun can not only keep residents local for a night out but maybe even attract people from outside Dennistoun. This doesn't mean it has become the 'west end' or is even trying to - its what 99% of people want in their area. //
#49 - anon_l replied on the 7/05/2014 3:51:50 PM
Why do we have to call these type of pubs "West End" pubs. Cant they just be called nice pubs, where people can enjoy good drink, good food, good music and good company. Of which there in none in Dennistoun (not including Tibo as its not just a pub) I have been to plenty of these pubs and they've not all been in the West End. I completely agree with previous Anon. This place is thriving because people are wanting to move here now. Lets make it a desirable area and try and get rid of the bad rep the East End has.
#50 - PH replied on the 8/05/2014 8:02:05 AM
I agree with The Mentalist. Especially as someone from Northern Ireland, I am wary of "football" pubs etc, and the only people I know personally who drink on Duke Street currently are hardcore into their Glasgow football team.
as that is all I have to base my opinion of the current pubs on, I didn't want to take the risk.
#51 - Ariana replied on the 8/05/2014 9:20:03 AM
With the amount of students in dennistoun you'd think someone would have opened a student targeted bar by now! I'll keep hoping :) Would love someone where my pals and I can stop for pre drinks on the way to town but all the bars along duke street seem full of dodgy blokes in their 50s.
#52 - JM1 replied on the 8/05/2014 10:24:34 AM
the snug has students come in before they head to town - it does not show football and has a great wee duke box - infact i watched 3 young students sit in the corner and played a card game for a couple of hours on Sunday night and they didn't seem out of place at all
#53 - Jeanie McDonald replied on the 8/05/2014 12:20:45 PM
I believe that the old mills bar is set to reopen  first week in June .
I also  noticed it was the same designer as the stravaign bar , if that's the case we are all in for a treat.  It's about time we have good modern bar that we can venture in to have nice drink with some good food
#54 - Anon replied on the 8/05/2014 3:56:33 PM
Well you may all be upset with Lawrence's post but I have to agree with him to a certain extent. No one likes to see the area they have lived in most of their lives be ridiculed by people who are moving into the area. If the area was really that bad, why are you choosing to live here in the first place? I have lived here for over 30 years and I would like to see some new pubs in the area. We do need to move with the times, however, Dennistoun is never going to be the 'East' West End, but new non football pubs would be good. On the point of feeling intimidated in the pubs, this is not a problem in all pubs. I worked in one of the pubs for many years and we (nor our customers) never made new customers feel unwelcome. I remember people moving into the area a few years back from all over, who still drink in the pubs in Duke Street to this day. Remember folks, Dennistoun has a lot going for it and it can get better, but please be mindful of the 'original' people of the east when insulting the area they grew up in. Have a good day :-)
#55 - anon _l replied on the 8/05/2014 7:12:50 PM
At no point have people ridiculed or insulted the area. Why would we do that when we've chose to live here. Dennistoun has so much potential but people need to move with the times in. With regards to the west end, my mum drank in Curlers when she grew up over there. That pub has changed so many times over the years, to fit what people want. It's great to see places here doing the same.
#56 - David replied on the 8/05/2014 7:15:42 PM
I suppose you're right that moving in to an area, dismissing all the pubs as 'scary' without trying them out and demanding a wine bar to be airlifted in before you've even finished unpacking is the wrong attitude. Â However, Lawrence's "go back to where you came from" attitude isn't really helping.
In truth, the pubs in Duke St aren't scary at all // they're just ordinary pubs. Â I've been in most of them over the years but they've never leapt out at me as 'this is a place I want to keep coming back to'. Â Some variety is a good thing, so I'm looking forward to the new place opening.
As long as it has decent beer, I'll be in for a pint.
#57 - anon _l replied on the 8/05/2014 9:42:24 PM
Not scary to who? I certainly wouldn't drink in them. You get looks from folk smoking when just walking past. Guess it comes down to what's intimidating and what's not. Oh and no way are we wanting wine bars!! :)
#58 - John replied on the 9/05/2014 2:11:28 PM
A lot of people on here CLAIMING that they would like to make life in Dennistoun better with lots of different places to go. Over the years the area has attracted a lot of new places as well as upgraded old places including Coias, Celinos, Tibo, Nakodar and new places to come Amore and Esca. A lot of pubs over the yearshave changed hands and if you want to drink in them go inside and get to know the staff and the regulars. If you would like to make a difference and your say about the area then come along to the DENNISTOUN COMMUNITY COUNCIL meetings and let us hear your proposals and plans. We meet every month in the Gingerbread hall in Armadale St.Next meeting is Tue 13th May at 7pm.
#59 - Pat replied on the 10/05/2014 6:02:31 PM
I would have to agree with John.
Dennistoun already has a lot of nice places that are excellent.
If you don't want to drink with the people who live here move somewhere else.
A dog makes a pub, we need more dog friendly pubs. There are quite a few in the town.
Gavin, as you will see there are a lot of folk who want you to make it their pub. I'd suspect that some are fair weather Dennistonians and will still bail to meet their mates in the West End.
#60 - local replied on the 10/05/2014 8:46:54 PM
There are plenty of dog friendly pubs already, we dont need any more.People make pubs not dogs.
#61 - anon _l replied on the 10/05/2014 9:25:10 PM
If residents can't pick up after their dog (see dog mess post) then why on earth would people be happy having dogs in a pub.
#62 - Kelly replied on the 10/05/2014 11:54:50 PM
I have to disagree with pat and john as the pubs in dennistoun are not good and do not attract a mixed clientele (mainly men) and are not the friendliest of places.
Also Pat your sentiment of "if you don't like it move" is such a narrow minded viewpoint and echoes earlier comments which just make it seem like you don't want real change as all the italian places are just carbon copts of what we can get in town. We were denied the mexican place which would have been a change but instead we have more italian restaurants as we need them.
Also there are pubs up the west end or town I wouldn't set foot in because they are not to my taste but at least there are options up there and that what people want. So if we get some new pubs that are not filled with poor beer and people bit chin about football then people from dennistoun would drink in them and then it defeats your point.
#63 - anon replied on the 10/05/2014 11:56:21 PM
I see there is more comments from people on here telling the people that want change to get out of dennistoun. Such a sad narrow viewpoint to have and perhaps these people should examine their own stale lives.
The pubs around here are awful, are marketed to the football crowd and have no redeeming features. Tibo is more of a restaurant.
#64 - Pat replied on the 11/05/2014 9:51:20 PM
My viewpoint is no more narrow that those who say Dennistoun's pubs are awful.
Tibo started out as a pub however it clearly didn't do well enough as it soon changed to a resteraunt.
I also think we have a wide variety of food on offer. PoaSan chinese, Dennistoun BBQ texan, Tibo Scottish, Celinos Italian, Coias Traditional and italian and glutten free, Tapa Vegan, Nakodar Indian topped with a wide range of takeaway places and complimented by many food stores selling organic to african produce.
For somewhere thats so devoid of pubs I think we do not too bad.
Pretty much every pub in Glasgow with a TV will pander to the male football crowd at some point.
An idea might be that you frequent the local pubs and they most likely will begin to cater to your tastes as a valued customer.
If the only people that go to the pub and spend money want to watch football then why would the land lord not put football on.
I recall some of these pubs having a no colours policy.
#65 - anon replied on the 11/05/2014 10:12:08 PM
Pat, you make a very fair point about the diversity on offer currently in Dennistoun.
I've been in most of the pubs to check them out, my favourite being the Crown Creighton. However, I simply don't have the inclination to keep turning up at a pub I only moderately like in the hope the landlord will cater more to my tastes. Its just not the way these things work.
By all means keep a few of the traditional pubs - I would hate to see them all go. But, there are a few that are thin on numbers, change ownership often and generally don't seem to make any effort to offer customers anything special.
And, sadly, i've seen too much trouble when out walking my dog at some of these pubs (police vans, fights, sectarian singing etc), that I would rather take my money elsewhere.
The fact of the matter is, there is a huge opportunity for someone to open a pub here. HUGE. If i had experience in this industry or money, i would love to open a pub in this great community.
#66 - anon _l replied on the 11/05/2014 11:21:23 PM
Pat, yes all these eateries are fantastic, but theyre somewhere to eat. Not have a social drink. We're not saying we want every pub in Dennistoun to change. Far from it. We are just suggesting that if someone is wanting to take over one, the things we'd like to see. As far as I can tell, the OP hasn't came back to this. Would be interesting to hear what he has to say about our suggestions.
#67 - Roobarb replied on the 15/05/2014 12:16:23 AM
This sounds like a brilliant idea. I'm no longer an east ender (not through choice, we ended up city centre through lack of available flats when we moved) but I travel along Duke Street twice a week and my wee sister and her fella are in Dennistoun. I can hand on heart say there's not a single pub along there that I would make a point of visiting. I've got simple tastes - you don't need to go West End to have a good pub. The Laurieston in the Gorbals has just won CAMRA Pub of the Year for the second year running. Decent pub grub, friendly staff, real ale and a few decent lagers (not just Carlsberg, Stella and Tennants!). If I were living in Dennistoun, I wouldn't be wanting a pub that I could walk to for cocktails and a night out (that's what town is for). I'd want a nice wee cosy pub for a couple of pints of ale/bottle of wine with friends and maybe a wee bite to eat. I'd recommend looking at Dram! on Woodlands road - for an almost West End bar, it's not overpriced, has a small selection of beer and is somewhere you just want to sit down and chill out in, or go and listen to some unoffensive music on a Friday night. Best of luck, Gavin, and I know a very good barmaid who's just up the road and is currently looking for work! ;-)
#68 - Morgan Spice replied on the 15/05/2014 9:55:10 PM
I'm from Dennistoun but lived in Shawlands for a few years. Â What I liked about Kilmarnock Road was the diversity of pubs. Â If I wanted to stay local I could go to a decent pub with like minded people and have some food and a few drinks. Â There were pubs I wouldn't have set foot in and that's fine but at least I had a choice. Â Here I wouldn't drink in any of the pubs (although I do frequent Tibo) as what puts me off is the people outside. Â I feel extremely intimidated. Â Also they have reputations. Â That might sound really narrow minded as you need to try before you buy as they say however i'm not willing to chance going into any of them. Â I'd like other folk to be catered for.
#69 - anon _l replied on the 16/05/2014 8:18:39 AM
Morgan Spice, your right it's reputations. They probably have them for a reason.
#70 - Kirsty replied on the 17/05/2014 12:23:58 PM
Hi Gavin
I really hope you go through with your plans to open a new bar in Dennistoun - new change (that obviously a lot of people are in favour of) is good change & will get people spending time/money in the area.
I am looking at buying my first flat here as it has its own little main street, is close to the motorway as well as city centre but I am sad to hear of people like Lawrence.
I would also just like to point out: the west end is not only Byres Road & overpriced bars of Ashton Lane. Finnieston has plenty of small, quirky bars that offer up different things: The Big Slope (good food & drink, good prices, the odd sporting event & plenty of dogs allowed), The Finnieston, Lebowskis or the Ben Nevis. And a good part of the West End is that it embraces its diversity, you don't feel judged as you walk into a bar or restaurant.
So maybe look at Finnieston or Shawlands cross for inspiration of the types of places & atmosphere. The Glad Cafe in Shawlands has a great vibe & very community based! Best of luck!
#71 - John replied on the 19/05/2014 5:34:10 PM
Dennistoun is the place to be , both Nakodar and Celinos just won the 2014 awards , both great places to go .....
#72 - anon replied on the 19/05/2014 9:47:56 PM
Couldn't agree with you more John. Â Love Celino's and Nakodar, both great eating places. Â Didnt know Nakodar was in the running thoughx
#73 - anon_l replied on the 20/05/2014 7:42:27 PM
It's a shame Gavin hasn't come back to this.
#74 - autumn replied on the 25/05/2014 4:01:07 AM
Would love a new bar..A laid back, no sports, nice decor, fine tunes, good pub grub and no pets (as much as i totally love pets i dont think its appropriate as dogs could fight, nowhere to do the toilet, ppl can have a phobia about dogs and also the fact food consumption is concerned) Mini Bar in Bath St is my fav, spot on for a pub menu..not overpriced or too fancy but amazing tasty food catered for everyone:)Also lovely friendly owners and bar staff make all the difference:)
#75 - John replied on the 26/05/2014 8:13:22 PM
The problem with the pubs round here isn't really the pubs themselves, but the people that go there. Are we ever going to get away from that?
#76 - anon replied on the 27/05/2014 7:33:53 AM
John. Couldn't disagree more.
I generally have no problem with most of the people in the pubs in Dennistoun. However, what a pensioner wants in a pub and what I want are completely different.
#77 - John replied on the 27/05/2014 6:44:56 PM
You're right, the majority are good folk, but in my experience it's the others, the type who keeps our armada of pawn shops thriving.
My last visit to // featured a local businessman with more eyes than teeth trying to sell me a pair of Levis for £3.
That was one of the nicer nights.
#78 - Joe replied on the 27/05/2014 9:48:12 PM
Levi's for 3 quid? Bargain!
#79 - jinty replied on the 30/05/2014 11:39:28 AM
As an incomer of 30 years i am saddened by a lot of comments above its not them and us we all live in Dennistoun and everyone is different thats what makes life intresting I do not drink alcohol but i have had the privilige of visiting all the pubs in Duke Street from the Bristol Bar to the Molinder Bar and everyone in between we  should not judge a book by its cover if people actually took time to talk to each other and listen you would find a lot of intresting people with long links to the area i have learned more about Dennistoun in this way than from any other source. I find you have to walk in someone shoes to know what life has made them who they are. Yes Dennistoun is changing but hopefully the friendilness of the area won't
#80 - john replied on the 30/05/2014 7:59:28 PM
LadyWell Bar stop all the moaning pay it a visit its got everything that folk on here are asking for
#81 - anon replied on the 31/05/2014 2:03:33 AM
No it doesn't.
I've been.
#82 - The Mentalist replied on the 31/05/2014 7:57:16 PM
Drygate is rather nice.
#83 - anon replied on the 1/06/2014 5:36:49 PM
"Tibo started out as a pub...."
Eh? I can remember when it was half deli/half cafe, with chiller cabinets near the doorway, almost like the Coia's deli/take away bit. That was six or seven years ago. And it had earlier closing times than any pub I've ever been to - often shut before nine on a quiet weekday evening, if I remember correctly.
#84 - Manuel replied on the 2/06/2014 6:29:43 PM
Jinty, I get what you are saying however I guess it's down to what you've experienced as an individual. I've lived here for nearly 6 years now and I'm afraid I've seen nothing but the worst Dennistoun has to offer. Some examples are:
Massive brawl // involving a guy on the bonnet of my car getting hit by a baseball bat
Attempted murder // on a Saturday afternoon with someone attempting to run down someone else, sparking a brutal brawl in front of kids and passers by
In an argument about 'right of way' a guy punching through someone's car window and beating him till an inch of his life.
Granted these are the more extreme events I've witnessed but I've yet to have the friendliness of the area outweigh the madness. I'm sure there are some lovely people here however I've been put off socialising due to the above and numerous lesser incidents.
Why do I still live here? Big cheap house that I can't sell and the hope that someone will open up a decent bar on Duke street!
#85 - anon _l replied on the 2/06/2014 7:46:59 PM
Looks like the new bar in the old Mills Bar is soon to be opening. Advertising for staff just now.
#86 - catsmaw replied on the 15/06/2014 3:08:49 PM
There is a huge gap in the market for good pubs in Dennistoun. Â I also frequent Tibo,but would love to have somewhere to go for a couple of drinks on a summer evening without always having to order food. Â West and the new Drygate are welcome additions to the area, but seem to cater more for large groups of friends, mainly of the "hipster variety". Â While these places are popular, they're not everyone's cup of tea. Â So it would be nice to have something else too where couples and single people wouldn't feel out of place. Â I think keeping it simple is the key here, traditional, maybe a bit like Cathedral House, but with a jukebox. Â Just somewhere you can drop in to for a drink and have some background music and where all ages feel welcome.
Whoever manages to get the right mix of atmosphere and clientele will have a gold mine, it's just a matter of time.
#87 - Paul replied on the 19/06/2014 9:26:45 AM
So... we now have two new bars in Dennistoun. Â The Drygate (which I have visited twice) and the Duchess of Duke Street, which I'll try to visit soon.
Between these two establishments, do you think we might now have what we're all looking for, or at least heading in the right direction?
#88 - PMC replied on the 22/06/2014 12:01:18 AM
Finally, we have what we've all been asking for. I popped into the newly opened Duchess on the way home tonight and I was totally gobsmacked. At last I can go for a pint with friends without the need to go into the city centre. This pub needs to be supported, so stop moaning, stop posting here and just get yourself down to a place that we will be happy to go to! :)
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