Bar owner serves up extended weekend opening

Last summer, James Dean realised his dream by opening his own cocktail and wine bar in Elgin town centre.

It was anything but smooth sailing, as he navigated some challenges.

For around six years, James managed bars in England.

He last managed the Peaky Blinders Bar in Stockport, inspired by the acclaimed TV series starring Cillian Murphy.

But then, he made the move almost 400 miles away to Elgin to be with family and open up his first business.

Dean’s Of Elgin is located at 92E High Street with access to the building via Fife Arms Close.

Around two years ago, his plans to transform the former beauty salon into a bar were revealed.

Now, he has revealed why he has decided to stay open until midnight on Friday and Saturday nights.

In March, planners approved the changes.

Last week, the licensing board gave the green light for the opening hours to be changed.

James said: “This was requested by our regulars.

“We also kept getting people turning up after we closed the bar and having to tell them sorry we close at 10.

“The extra four hours a week will help us.

“We have all good feedback which shows we are on a good path at the moment.”

He hopes to soon add outdoor seating to help the business during the summer months.

James explained: “I want to add four tables with four seats on each.

“Moray Council is just doing some checks just now.”

Opening hours for the bar are now from noon until 10pm from Monday to Thursday.

Meanwhile on Fridays and Saturdays, it will stay open until midnight.