The new spot, from the team behind Kelvingrove Cafe, is described as a wine-focused bar and grill inspired by the Basque Country – and we can’t wait to try it.
Bar Dani is coming to Finnieston(Image: Bar Dani)
One of Glasgow’s best cocktail bars has teased that it is set to open a second venue – and fans won’t have to go far as it’s right across the road.
Kelvingrove Cafe, the much-loved bar and food spot in Finnieston, will soon be launching Dani, a wine-focused bar and grill inspired by the Basque Country – and we can’t wait to try it.
Supported by KC owners Kirsty and Barry Oates, experienced industry stalwart Alec Dyson will lead the project with experienced chef Stephen Crawford taking the helm in the kitchen.
Inspired by Alec’s strong links to the Basque Country, Dani will be anything but stuffy and embrace the fun and relaxed atmosphere you’d find in places like San Sebastián.
“Having very strong links to the Basque Country, I’ve always wanted to open something that nods to that extremely social (and sometimes hectic) way of drinking and eating,” explained Alec. “The two go hand in hand, never one without the other. The opportunity came for us to take on a wonderful unit in Finnieston, right across the road from Kelvingrove Cafe, and the space suits the idea so perfectly. Barry, Kirstie, and I immediately got excited about creating Dani.”
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With just over 40 covers and plenty of room for standing – Alec confirms this will be encouraged – and space to sit and eat at the bar, the team say Dani will be a departure from the “quiet, stuffy wine bar of old”.
He added: “All tables will be able to be used communally, with sunken ice wells, hopefully adding to the atmosphere. Downstairs, there will be a ‘tasting room’; a private room that we will use for private tastings and dining.
“We want plenty of energy. We’re going for lights down, music up…we want people to walk in and immediately feel at home and comfortable. We hope people will look through the front window and go ‘I want to be a part of that!’.
“Add to that the Kelvingrove Cafe service and warmth, and we’re on to a winner.”
Though they’ve yet to confirm an opening date, the team are hoping the bar will be ready in the not-too-distant future, with videos shared on Instagram showing plenty of progress and plenty of credit being given to both Sean Harkins of Smart Group and Steven at S2 Architecture, who Alex says have been instrumental in delivering their vision.
There’s plenty to be excited about, with everything from the drinks menu to the food designed to thrill even the toughest-to-please food and drink fan.
Alec (left) and Stephen (right) and the KC team are bringing Bar Dani to life(Image: Kelvingrove Cafe)
“There will be a wine list showcasing the very best of Spain, sherry, vermouth and a signature freezer martini,” added Alec. “The food will be ingredient-led, focusing on cooking over coals; we have a custom-built grill that will take centre stage behind the bar.
“We’re bringing in Galician blonde beef from Spain and using the very best shellfish and fish from Scotland.”
The bar will be a personal project for Alec, who credits his time in San Sebastian and memories with his family there for inspiring him.
He stated: “I’m so lucky to have family there, I’ve been going there my whole life and I just love the atmosphere, the style of eating and drinking, the energy.
“All of us love our food and wine; Barry and Kirstie have smashed the cocktail bar/cafe and it’s time to do something different but hopefully carrying on the award-winning hospitality.”
Dining and Cooking