First Look: Inside the stylish new Glasgow city centre bookshop inspired bar

The Last Bookstore has opened its doors on Hope Street, in the city centre, taking over the former home of Fat Lobster.

From the team behind Devil of Brooklyn and Tabac, this unique bar combines the charm of a traditional bookshop with a modern drinking experience, complete with literary-inspired drinks and moody, antique decor.

The bar is a visual feast for book lovers, with 8,000 books lining its walls and a spectacular literary archway made of 1,300 books – together containing 442 million words.

The drinks menu is a tribute to famous authors, with cocktails inspired by the likes of Jack Kerouac, Dorothy Parker, and Ernest Hemingway. Beer lovers can also choose from twelve taps, including the house Bookstore Lager, Cruzcampo, and Guinness.

The food offering includes small plates and lunch options, highlights being brisket croquette with mascarpone, rosemary, and apple, as well as charred cauliflower with pickled shallot and tahini yoghurt.

Visitors will find a 16-foot floor-to-ceiling backlit gantry and a stunning 32-foot brass-topped bar, adorned with both books and bottles.

Seating options vary from high tables and stools to cosy booths and traditional tables, catering to all preferences.

A stairwell plastered with book pages leads to the bathrooms and a literary archway invites customers upstairs to a cosy mezzanine space.

Mick Quinn, head bartender, said: “We wanted to create an atmosphere of having a dog lying on your toes while you drink something strong with this concept.

“The Last Bookstore is the perfect place for me – I studied to be an English teacher before I became a bartender, so I’m a happy camper!“I’ve used that knowledge when designing the drinks menu; each cocktail is inspired by an author and a line or connection they’ve written about alcohol.”

Mick added: “'It's been a long road and a real labour of love trying to bring our vision to life.“But now that we've dotted our 'i's and crossed our 't's, we can look eagerly to our next chapter; sharing it with the public we're so excited to welcome in.”

Kirsty Lennon, Group Operations Manager from Lazzurri Group said: "Transforming Fat Lobster into something entirely new has been a real team effort. 

“We’ve worked tirelessly to refine our food and drink offerings, making sure every detail feels just right.

“Our goal was to create a cosy nook in the heart of the city, and we’re thrilled with how it has come together.”

The Last Bookstore is open for walk-ins this weekend, and bookings are open from October 14.