The latest addition to Aberdeen’s food and drink scene, a new cocktail bar, opens its doors for the first time this weekend.
Bartenders Lounge, on North Silver Street, is co-owned and operated by Craig Scott.
The 22-year-old has acquired the premises with his mother, Michelle Scott, and stepfather, Graham Finnigan, who live in Peterculter.
Mr Scott recently relocated from Edinburgh and has jumped into business ownership after a brief spell as a mixologist at The Tippling House on Belmont Street, Aberdeen.
He previously worked for some of Edinburgh’s top cocktail bars and leading event managers.
His jobs in the capital included a stint as head bartender at new town restaurant Superico, while he has also headed up the catering at a raft of major Scottish events.
The new cocktail bar will host a private launch on Saturday and open its doors to the public on Sunday.
Mr Scott said: “Bartenders Lounge will offer an extensive selection of quality cocktails, gins, wines, whiskies and beers – all served in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
“We have spent some time looking for the right location… and believe these premises provide the ideal setting for this exciting new city centre bar.”
He added: “Bartenders Lounge will be a blend of the classic approach to cocktails, whilst creating a unique cocktail menu in tandem with trends and seasons, catering for all and with a focus on high quality service.
“We have exciting plans to extend our offering to include DJ rotations on Friday and Saturday nights.”
The new business owners turned to Aberdeen property specialist FG Burnett when they launched their hunt for a suitable site.
City centre ‘renaissance’
FG Burnett commercial surveyor Lisa Cowie said: “This is yet another exciting new addition to the city’s leisure offering which I’m sure will quickly attract a large and loyal following.
“Situated directly opposite the popular Under the Hammer and Globe bars and in close proximity to the various bars and restaurants in Golden Square, this part of the city centre is undoubtedly undergoing a renaissance.
“The premises are ideally located for both HMT (His Majesty’s Theatre) and the Music Hall, making it the perfect spot for a pre or post-show drink.”
Ms Cowie added: “The challenges facing the city centre and hospitality sector in particular are well documented and a number of positive initiatives are ongoing to attempt to address these.
“The opening of another high-end hospitality offering… is another ‘good news’ story for Aberdeen, demonstrating the confidence which young entrepreneurs, like Craig, have in our city.”
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