This year was a record year in terms of votes and entries and we wanted to share what the judges and mystery shoppers said about the winners. You can also see the winners receiving their trophy in the full winners list here. We’ll cover what the judges said about our other special awards next week.
Benromach Whisky Bar of the Year
There are some fantastic whisky bars in Scotland. This year, the judges were looking for a bar that could take consumers on the full whisky journey.
The four finalists were:
- Athletic Arms, Edinburgh
- The Belfry, Edinburgh
- Mother Superior, Edinburgh
- The Pot Still, Glasgow
The mystery shoppers said, “This whisky pub is a standout spot for enthusiasts, with an impressive display of bottles filling every shelf and corner of its traditional interior. The whisky is well priced, with 35ml measures and a variety of offers displayed on clipboards and blackboards around the bar. There’s also the option to take home a dram in a sample bottle.”
Winner: The Athletic Arms, Edinburgh.
Black Ivy & Montpeliers Rising Star Entrepreneurial Award
This is the eighth year of this category, and it’s been one of the strongest yet. Each candidate was truly worthy. This award encourages and supports entrepreneurship in the bar and pub industry. The winner will be mentored by Billy Lowe and David Wither for a year, with ongoing support available for all finalists.
The five finalists were:
- Ceceley Chambers, The Bowlers Rest
- Edward Fox, Encore Bars
- Allan and Lauren Low, Fox & Willow
- Lauren McIntosh, The Cocktail Joint
- Connie & James Taberner, Fintry Bay
The judges said, “Our role is to mentor the winner, but the candidates were so engaging and interesting that we would like to extend our help, if and when the other finalists require it, in the future. But our stand-out entrepreneur this year was engaging, motivated and hungry for what the future holds. The business is growing at pace and we believe that this rising star is entrepreneurial through and through.”
Winner`: Edward Fox, Encore Bars
Brugal 1888 Best Cocktail Bar of the Year
For the second year, Brugal 1888 has sponsored this award. They were looking for a bar dedicated to being the very best, with bartenders crafting cocktails that have the wow factor, served with excellent service.
The finalists were:
- The Cocktail Geeks, Edinburgh
- Hey Palu, Edinburgh
- Jack’s Bar – Dakota Hotel, Glasgow
- Kelvingrove Cafe, Glasgow
- Lady Libertine, Edinburgh
The judges said, “A lovely, intimate cocktail bar with a great vibe. Knowledgeable and friendly staff provide first-class service and — most importantly — the imaginative cocktails are absolutely fabulous!”
Winner: Hey Palu, Edinburgh
DRAM Dog Friendly Pub of the Year
This category is always a favourite, receiving the most votes from customers. A mystery shopper checked out the welcome and dog facilities, with last year’s winner also helping with the judging.
The finalists were:
- The Anchorage, Dunure
- Bag o’Nails, Glasgow
- The Original Rosslyn Inn, Roslin
- Weston Tavern, Kilmaurs
Highly Commended: The Anchorage in Dunure
The mystery shoppers said, “This dog-friendly pub offers a warm, relaxed atmosphere with a dedicated area at the back accessible from the car park, as well as outdoor seating in the courtyard and beer garden. During our visit, every table was taken and dogs were calmly settled, which helped our own dog Nula relax. Nula was so comfortable we even stayed for dessert.”
Winner: The Original Rosslyn Inn, Roslin
Campari UK Bar Apprentice of the Year
This was Campari UK’s second Bar Apprentice Programme. All apprentices were outstanding, showing great passion and enthusiasm, also participating in a cocktail take-over at The Gate in Glasgow.
Highly Commended: Cameron Evans, Lynnhurst Hotel.
The judges said of the winner, “The candidates were all super but this particular apprentice was engaged every step of the way and showed real initiative during the cocktail take-over.”
Winner: Aimee Ashworth, formerly of La Jupe, now at Dishoom.
De Kuyper Cocktail Excellence in a Neighbourhood Venue
This new award recognises bars delivering excellent cocktails in their neighbourhood. Mystery shoppers sampled cocktails and assessed service, atmosphere, and overall impression.
The finalists were:
- The Corner House, Kilwinning
- Draffens, Dundee
- McLaren’s on the Corner, Edinburgh
- The Torfin, Edinburgh
Highly commended: The Corner House, Kilwinning.
The mystery shoppers said of the winner, “It had a really nice and relaxed atmosphere. From an enjoyment point of view I would give it a 10 – the cocktails were lovely and presented elegantly and professionally and the service was extremely friendly.”
Winner: Draffens, Dundee
Deanston Rising Star Whisky Guru of the Year
This award is for those who have developed a passion and deep knowledge of whisky in recent years, sharing it enthusiastically with peers and customers.
The finalists were:
- Ross Bar, Scotch at The Balmoral, Edinburgh
- Chris Chambers, Cask and Vine, Edinburgh
- Lucy Connor, Tipsy Midgie, Edinburgh
- Jane Ross, The Mother Superior
The judges said, “Our guru is passionate about whisky and is not afraid of experimenting when it comes to selling and telling customers all about whisky not unlike Deanston itself. Our guru transforms whisky into culture and shares whisky with new audiences but still has a community focus.”
Winner: Jane Ross, The Mother Superior
Favela Independent Multiple Operator of the Year
This award recognises independent operators who consistently deliver excellence across multiple venues, bringing personality, outstanding service, and passion to each location with a commitment to quality, innovation, and community.
The finalists are:
- Bucks Bar Group
- Cru Hospitality
- Eden Group
- Rocks Leisure Group
Highly Commended: Rocks Leisure Group
The judges said of the winner, “This independent multi-site operation maintains its personality and service focus while operating at a scale and sophistication that rivals larger groups. Its innovations in centralised production, food safety, and customer service technology, paired with a people-first culture and proven expansion strategy, align most strongly with the Favela Award’s vision of shaping the future of the pub scene in Scotland.”
Winner: Bucks Bar Group, Glasgow
Fireball Best Late Night Venue
Fireball seeks venues delivering unforgettable nightlife experiences — full of fun, creativity, community spirit and exceptional service.
Celebrating excitement and energy, Fireball perfectly aligns with this award, recognising venues that embody fun, creativity, and community.
The finalists were:
- Berlinkys, Glasgow
- The Corset Club, Glasgow
- Freddy’s, Edinburgh
- Slouch, Glasgow
- Vic’s, Prestwick
The mystery shoppers said of the winner, “This venue has live music until 2am, and is a great socialising space with good music and drinks. The energy was infectious, and the atmosphere was everything a nightlife moment should be.”
Winner: Freddy’s, Edinburgh
Hospitality Health Employer of the Year
This category honours hospitality companies that prioritise the health and wellbeing of their teams and it was looking for the hospitality operator that does the most to ensure its team is looked after, including its response to looking after the health and wellbeing.
The finalists were:
- Apex Hotels
- Cru Hospitality
- Lisini Pub Co
- Manorview
There was a Highly Commended Certificate in this category. The judges felt that Lisini “should be congratulated on what they have achieved over the last year, on a journey that has seen the business invest and adapt their approach to meet the feedback and needs of their team, supported by a management team who are clearly embracing health and well-being within their business.”
Highly Commended: Lisini Pub Co.
The judges said of the winner, “It stood out – not only for its ability to support its investment in people as it grows its business but how it demonstrated the changes and initiatives that have taken place over the last year. It was also clear that these initiatives will continue to evolve and grow as the teams within the business need to evolve with it.”
Winner: Apex Hotels
HOSPO Talent Manager of the Year
To create a shortlist of Scotland’s best managers, the DRAM asked the industry for nominations, then interviewed candidates, narrowing it down to six finalists:
- Fiona Joyce, Solway Lodge Hotel
- Gavin Ruthven, The Dome
- Michael Eaton, Cafe Royal
- Lorraine Ferguson, Billy Bridges
- Stuart Kilpatrick, Hope & Vincent
- Pete Harvey, Aboukir
The judges said of the winner, “This candidate was first class.” One nominator said, “He is a great example of an outstanding leader, a compassionate mentor and an exceptional ambassador for the hospitality industry. He has an uncanny ability to boost morale, ensuring that every employee feels valued and motivated.”
Winner: Gavin Ruthven, The Dome
Hotel Scotland Hotel Bar of the Year
Hotel Scotland was looking for a hotel bar that epitomises the best of all things Scottish which offers great service, and a bar that allows you to relax – either pre-activity or post activity. The judges were looking for a bar with ambience, a good range of drinks, cocktails too, and service with a smile.
There four finalists were:
- Bar 1819 – Apex Waterloo Place, Edinburgh
- Black Ivy, Edinburgh
- Nor’ Loft, Edinburgh
- Red Sky Bar, Glasgow
Winner: Black Ivy, Edinburgh
Inverarity Morton Best Drinks Offering
This award seeks a venue demonstrating a diverse drinks offering – wine, spirits, beer, and soft drinks with knowledgeable staff and great service. The award was dedicated to a venue that’s bold and daring, just like its drinks offering.
The finalists were:
- Brewhemia, Edinburgh
- The Criterion, St Andrews
- The Keys Bar, St Andrews
- Scotch & Rye, Inverness
- Teuchters Landing, Edinburgh
The mystery shoppers said, “The service was exceptional and the staff were particularly knowledgeable when it came to recommending drinks to suit the customer. The bar also featured a wide-ranging selection of beer, wine, whisky, and more, but the standout feature was the warm and attentive approach of the team. It appeals to all ages and leaves a lasting impression thanks to the outstanding service.”
Winner: The Criterion, St Andrews
SBPA Best Beer Garden
Our mystery shoppers looked for venues with great outdoor spaces that could be enjoyed year-round, with good service and food and drink offerings.
The finalists were:
- Black Ivy, Edinburgh
- The Fox & Willow, Ayr
- Hugos Bar and Pavilion, Dalgety Bay
- Weavers, Paisley
The mystery shoppers said, “The outdoor space is thoughtfully laid out, with plenty of seating and a covered pavilion that makes it suitable for all weather. It felt inviting and well-maintained, creating a relaxed atmosphere that would suit everything from a quiet coffee to a lively catch-up with friends. The attention to detail in the setup made it clear that creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for guests is a priority here.”
Winner: Hugos Bar & Pavilion, Dalgety Bay
Jameson Best Irish Bar
The world’s best Irish Whiskey Jameson’s was on the lookout for Scotland’s best Irish Bar. It had to have a reputation for great service, good craic, live music, and of course celebrating all things Irish.
The five finalists were:
- Boston Bar, Edinburgh
- Kitty O’Shea’s, Glasgow
- Malones, Edinburgh
- O’Connor’s, Edinburgh
- Seamus’s, Edinburgh
The mystery shoppers said, “From the moment you walk in, the authentic Irish atmosphere is clear. This popular spot is often buzzing with locals and visitors alike, drawn by its genuine Irish charm and lively vibe. It’s easy to see why it remains a favourite for anyone seeking a true Irish bar experience.”
Winner: Kitty O’Shea’s, Glasgow
Gastro Pub of the Year sponsored by Jump Ship Brewing
Jump Ship Brewing were seeking a pub that combined the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional pub with high-quality, chef-driven food.
The four finalists were:
- The Birds & Bees, Stirling
- Crown & Anchor Inn, Findhorn
- Stravaigin, Glasgow
- The Bridge Inn, Ratho
The mystery shoppers were most impressed by all the finalists who were voted for by their customers. And there was a Highly Commended in this category.
Highly Commended: The Crown and Anchor, Findhorn
The mystery shoppers said, “This pub is worthy of the title Gastro Pub of the Year award due to its perfect blend of rustic charm, outstanding food, and welcoming atmosphere. The menu offers a delicious mix of traditional Scottish and international dishes made from locally sourced seasonal ingredients, and it had very friendly and attentive staff.”
Winner: The Birds & Bees, Stirling
The DRAM Community Pub of the Year
This was one of the most hotly contested categories this year with pubs getting lots of votes from their happy customers in the community. Each and every one should feel very proud of getting to the finals.
The five finalists were:
- Aboukir, Carnoustie
- The Bowler’s Rest, Edinburgh
- Montagues, Kirkcaldy
- The Newton Bar, Millport
- The Pawn Lounge, Alexandria
The voting community were unequivocal saying, “This bar is very much the heart of the community with the owners always going the extra mile. They keep an eye on more vulnerable people and take them meals when they are ill and generally care for everyone. It also does massive fundraising for various charities during the year. More than 200 people took the time to vote.”
Winner: The Newton Bar, Millport
SBPA New Bar of the Year
The judges were looking for a bar that was of the moment. A new bar that epitomised what customers are looking for today. A great experience, which comes from good service, an offering that sticks in your mind, a wide range of quality brands, and a great atmosphere.
The five finalists were:
- Boston Bar, Edinburgh
- Berlinkys, Glasgow
- Cask & Vine, Edinburgh
- The Marlborough, Glasgow
- Sebbs, Glasgow
The mystery shoppers said, This bar deserves to win this award because it perfectly captures the spirit of what today’s customers crave in a bar. As a fresh and innovative venue, it offers an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere is vibrant and inviting, making every visit feel special and relevant to the modern social scene. It doesn’t just serve drinks — it creates memorable moments that truly set it apart as a bar of the moment.”
Winner: Berlinkys, Glasgow
Schweppes Mixologist of the Year
Schweppes was looking for someone who knew what they were doing behind the bar — a mixologist who didn’t just mix great drinks, but truly understood what they were creating. We ran an in-bar competition in Edinburgh and invited bartenders to compete by making their version of a summer highball.
The five finalists were:
- Branford Edgar, Kelvingrove Cafe, Glasgow
- Jake Harris, Old Pal, Edinburgh
- Poppy Kerr, Bartenders Lounge, Aberdeen
- Chris Mullen, Mar Hall, Bishopton
- Toby Peters, Cocktail Geeks, Edinburgh
The judges said, “The winning candidate embodied creativity, precision, and passion in the cocktail that he crafted for the judges. He combined innovative techniques with a deep understanding of flavours to deliver a drink that surprised and delighted.”
Winner: Toby Peters, Cocktail Geeks, Edinburgh
Sims Sports Bar of the Year
Sims Automatics took up the challenge this year to find Scotland’s Best Sports Bar. These bars offer an environment that encourages socialising and embraces technology, such as having high-definition screens and advanced sound systems. They also have staff that offer good service and who are genuinely passionate about sports.
The four finalists were:
- Houston’s Sport Bar, Johnstone
- Hope & Vincent, Glasgow
- Lochy’s, Barrhead
- The Tap Yard, Glasgow
The mystery shoppers said: “This bar offers the ultimate sports-watching experience tailored perfectly to what fans want today. Its large, spacious venue comfortably accommodates big crowds without losing the vibrant, energetic atmosphere that sports fans crave. Beyond multiple big screens all around the room for optimal viewing, it also features pool tables and darts boards, adding fun and friendly competition alongside the live action. It also offers a diverse menu of quality drinks, and great food. Plus, its ability to host parties and special events makes it a versatile community hub where fans can come together to celebrate and enjoy.”
Winner: Lochy’s, Barrhead
Staropramen Award for Outstanding Quality
Staropramen is a traditional premium Prague style beer brewed with passion using only the finest ingredients. This year the team behind the Molson Coors brand were on the hunt for a bar or pub that provided great service, beer served at the right temperature and in the right glassware, great food, and the warmest of welcomes.
The five finalists were:
- Brewhemia, Edinburgh
- Boston Bar, Edinburgh
- Louie Brown’s, Dalgety Bay
- The Phoenix, Dundee
- Siberia Bar & Hotel, Aberdeen
The mystery shoppers said, This pub feels like a local in the city centre. The beer was great – a 10 out of 10 – and the service was first class – extremely friendly and welcoming.”
Winner: The Phoenix, Dundee
Sunday Mail Pub of the Year
Customers voted for their favourite pubs and mystery shoppers were sent out on more than one occasion to get a real feel for the pub.
The four finalists for Sunday Mail Pub of the Year were:
- The Anglers, Annan
- Athletic Arms, Edinburgh
- MacSorley’s, Glasgow
- Four Marys, Linlithgow
This was one of the strongest ever entries for Sunday Mail Pub of the Year. However, one pub excelled. At the heart of a great pub is a great experience and this pub offered exactly that.
The mystery shoppers said, “This year’s Sunday Mail pub of the year blends traditional charm with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere and live music. It is obviously a pub that honours its heritage while delivering everything modern customers expect and more. That really resonated with us.”
Winner: MacSorley’s, Glasgow
All the winners and pictures