Renowned Glasgow Licensees Reopen The Bon Accord

Fans of Glasgow’s world-renowned whisky bar, The Bon Accord on North Street who have been dismayed at the news of it closing its doors after 55 years, can breathe a sigh of relief.  The Bon Accord re-opened last night under new licensees, Ken Stott and Euan McMillan, with the same staff behind the bar and in the kitchen.

Ken and Euan are already well known on Glasgow’s hospitality scene.  They started out at The Lismore Bar and took on The Ben Nevis Bar on Argyle Street in 2018.  The Machair on The Great Western Road followed.  Both are popular venues with a focus on Scottish music, whisky and traditional Scottish food. 

Says Ken: “We love The Bon Accord’s history and its unique atmosphere.   We are keen to preserve its cosy, lived-in feel and features like its lovely worn leather armchairs, as well as maintain its authentic, down-to-earth character, which Paul Mcdonagh created over so many years.

“We want to build on this iconic pub’s reputation. The changes we’re planning are enhancements rather than a radical departure from what has made The Bon Accord beloved by so many.  These include reintroducing Scottish live music, which the pub hasn’t had for a while, opening the kitchen seven days a week and making some changes to the menu.  In addition to the pub classics it currently offers we’ll be adding some modern dishes showcasing Scottish produce. We also intend to host whisky events throughout the year and small beer festivals in the summer.

“We promise whisky, real ales, good food and good times and with that in mind will be hosting a party on the evening of Thursday 4th June to celebrate our taking on The Bon Accord.  We’d love it if regulars and new customers could join us - a great atmosphere is guaranteed!

“We’d like to wish Paul’s son Thomas success with his new venture.And, finally we’d like to say thank you to the lovely staff at The Bon Accord for all their hard work helping to get the pub open again so quickly and to the customers who came in last night for making us feel so welcome.  Cheers to many happy days and evenings ahead.”

Says Craig Johnstone, Star Pubs Business Development Manager: “Ken and Euan are friends and partners both with a passion for traditional Scottish pubs, produce and culture.  They are an ideal fit for The Bon Accord and will be great custodians of its future.”