Rogano legal battle settled out of court — but Supreme Court still hears landmark Glasgow restaurant case
One of Glasgow’s most famous restaurants has found itself at the centre of a major legal dispute, even after both sides reached an out-of-court settlement at the last minute.
The long-running row involving Rogano, the iconic Glasgow seafood restaurant, was due to be heard at the UK Supreme Court while sitting at Glasgow City Chambers.
However, lawyers acting for Rogano operator Forthwell Limited and landlord Pontegadea UK revealed that an agreement had been reached late on Tuesday evening, just hours before the hearing was due to begin.
Despite the settlement, the Supreme Court decided to continue hearing the case because of its wider significance for Scots Law and future commercial contract disputes.
Why was the Rogano case important?
The dispute centred on whether Forthwell Limited could seek compensation for lost profits suffered by a subsidiary company operating the restaurant.
Forthwell argued that delays in repairs by landlord Pontegadea UK had caused financial losses after Rogano was forced to close.
Pontegadea, linked to Zara founder Amancio Ortega, argued that the operating company was effectively a third party and could not claim losses under the lease agreement.
The legal point is considered important because it could affect how future commercial contract disputes are handled in Scotland.
Rogano remains closed after flooding and fire damage
Rogano has been closed since the Covid-19 pandemic after severe flooding in late 2020 and early 2021 caused an electrical fire, leaving the building unsafe.
The restaurant, which has traded in Glasgow since 1935, was long regarded as one of the city’s most glamorous dining rooms.
Known for its Art Deco interiors, seafood menus and old-school atmosphere, Rogano became a landmark for both locals and visitors.
Supreme Court continues despite settlement
Although both sides reached a financial agreement before the hearing, the Supreme Court decided the case should still be heard.
Lord Reed, President of the Supreme Court, said it was in the public interest for the court to resolve the legal question raised by the dispute.
At least one other case is understood to be paused pending the outcome.
A written judgment is expected at a later date.
A Glasgow institution with famous visitors
For decades, Rogano was one of Glasgow’s best-known restaurants and a favourite for special occasions.
The venue is said to have welcomed famous names including Elizabeth Taylor, Mick Jagger and Kylie Minogue.
Its long closure has left many Glaswegians wondering whether the much-loved seafood restaurant will ever reopen.
For now, Rogano remains part of Glasgow’s dining history and, unexpectedly, part of an important legal case for Scotland too.
Author: Emma Mykytyn
Writes for here and Foodie Explorers website. Usually found napping.