Glasgow restaurant Epicures of Hyndland Road to be turned into piano bar

A Glasgow restaurant which has “struggled to find its feet” since the pandemic is planning to become a “sophisticated piano bar”.

Epicures of Hyndland Road, which is owned by itison, intends to offer ticketed entertainment and a three-course meal to guests.

Changes to its licence have been approved after councillors were assured that the venue is attempting to allay neighbours’ noise concerns.

Three objections to the variation application had been received, including from Dowanhill, Hyndland and Kelvinside Community Council.

Licensing lawyer Audrey Junner, representing itison, said an acoustic consultant had been employed to help manage sound levels.

She added: “Since Covid the venue has really struggled to find its feet again, so Oli [Norman], who is the owner of itison and Epicures, believes it is time for a rethink.

“The concept which they have landed on is that of a sophisticated piano bar. Daytime trade would remain very much as it is now, but instead of being a pure bar/restaurant at night, the focus would switch to being dining alongside entertainment.”

With an all-seated capacity of around 70, events would be pre-booked, and for the ticket prices, visitors would get “a high-end three-course meal and enjoy some entertainment from local talent.”

“Customers are looking for more when they venture out,” Ms Junner said. “They are going out less so when they do go, they are seeking out dining options which are a bit different and offer them more for their money.”

None of the objectors were present at the licensing board hearing, but Ms Junner said the neighbour above the venue had been involved during sound testing.

She said tests had been carried out to “determine appropriate levels”, adding the planned level was “essentially inaudible in the flat upstairs”.

The lawyer said conditions imposed by licensing officers will “provide extra protection,” while extra dampening measures are being considered.

Ms Junner added: “itison generally as a company has a brilliant track record when it comes to managing noise issues within their premises.”