An exciting new venue in Partick is set to offer Glaswegians a taste of South Africa with delicious Scottish takes on dishes like Bunnychow and Biltong.
BRU has opened its doors on Dumbarton Road at the site of the former St Louis Cafe offering brunch, small plates and gourmet pizzas on its gastropub-style menu.
The menu will also feature dishes inspired by South African-born owner Bradley Potteron’s homeland.
The 43-year-old, who has spent time working in bars and restaurants in Australia, London and Glasgow has named his first solo venture BRU, the term used to describe a close friend in South Africa.
In his most recent role, as assistant manager at local institution Ziques, Bradley fell in love with Glasgow’s West End and began to look for a venue to call his own. Now, having sealed a deal to take over the vacant venue, he is on a mission to create a “home away from home” for the community while showcasing local suppliers, musicians, and artists.
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The kitchen team will be led by head chef Scott Barron, who was most recently based at The Gallery restaurant in Tobermory.
Customers at the west end's latest eatery will be able to sample a Glasgow take on the South African favourite, the Bunnychow: a hollowed-out loaf of bread that’s usually filled with curry, which will be served in a morning roll with a fried egg during breakfast service.
And teaming up with some of the hottest producers Scotland has to offer, BRU will also offer pints from Overtone brewery and Williams Brothers, coffee from Good Coffee Cartel, milk from Mossgiel Organic Farm, ceramics from Pots from Scots, eggs from Corrie Mains Farm, and bread from Soja’s Bakehouse.
Brad also plans to source and supply biltong - South African cured meat - which will feature on the late-night menu on sharing-style meat and cheese boards. Meanwhile, the wine list will feature specially selected African organic wines.
Speaking about the food, Brad said: “Having South African-inspired dishes on the menu brings something new and exciting to the city. We realise the importance of standing out and doing something different, while also prioritising service, which will be at the heart of everything we do.”
In a further nod to this inspiration, the bathrooms will feature Springboks, the country's national animal, and swallows, which are known to migrate between the UK and South Africa, drawn by local artist Flore de Hoog.
BRU will also be showcasing prints and paintings by local artists and flowers from She Bloomin’ Gathered, with plans to host open mic nights for up-and-coming talent.
Open from 9 am until 9 pm, Wednesday to Monday, BRU joins the recent wave of new openings on Dumbarton Road, including the nearby GaGa and Eighty Six.
Speaking about his new venture, Brad said: “Opening a bar during this time of economic unrest is obviously a concern, but with the increase in working from home, more people are spending more time within their own community, which is why areas like Thornwood and Patrick are exploding with exciting new venues.
“People are also aware of the impact of their buying decisions: they want to support ethical, local suppliers, which is something that’s very important to us.
“We’re confident our community-focused vibe will be the perfect laidback venue for people to unwind.
"We believe BRU can be a big part of Thornwood as it continues to become one of the best places to eat and drink in the city.
“I’m very glad we managed to get everything up and running in time for what we believe will be a very busy Christmas season."
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