Absent Ear: Discover Glasgow's Best Kept Secret

Named after Vincent van Gogh’s missing body part, The Absent Ear is Glasgow’s most authentic speakeasy. Located in the heart of the city's Merchant City area, below Amsterdam bar. This multi-award-winning venue has rightly earned its reputation as one of the best cocktail bars in the country.

Like any serious speakeasy, entry is a secret of its own. One must follow the red lights down the stairs, where, greeted with a  portrait of Vincent himself, A password is required to progress. Once inside, you'll discover a hidden world that's all your own. The space, perfectly intimate with around 10-12 different seating areas, celebrates Van Gough’s artistic legacy with a healthy splash of creativity and a drop of his madness. Think dark corridor’s, intimate lighting, and plush red velvet booth seats. 

Don’t expect your usual cocktails, each cocktail is presented in a theatrical manor, with an artful presentation that's almost too beautiful to drink. The bartenders are artists in their own right, and they take their craft seriously. They use the finest ingredients to create cocktails that are not only visually stunning, but also pack a punch with their flavour profiles. Menus are displayed on interactive tablet, featuring visual art from local artists to match the flavours. Those overwhelmed by the wide selection can use the tablet’s “slot selection” game to choose the options most suited to their favourite flavours.

The Verdict: 9/10 The stunning art inspired by Vincent Van Gogh, to the artful cocktails that are almost too beautiful to drink, there's something for everyone at this speakeasy bar. Overall, the drinks are the most complex, fascinating, and creative cocktails I have tasted. 

Details

Brunswick St, Glasgow G1 1TF

Contact:

Website

Instagram: @theabsentear 

https://www.facebook.com/TheAbsentEar

Opening hours:

Tue-Thu 5pm-1am

Fri-Sat 3pm- 2am

Sun 2pm- 1am