From Chicago to Glasgow: The Story Behind Grunting Growler

I was born and raised just outside Chicago, but my childhood was anything but ordinary. With a Scottish mum and Palestinian dad, I experienced life on three continents before I turned 10. From second grade in Scotland to third grade in Palestine, then back to the Chicago suburbs—I grew up with a mash-up of cultures that shaped how I see the world.

Chicagoland was home until I turned 18, when I packed my bags for Southern Illinois to start university. After a detour to Indiana University, life threw me another curveball. When the cost of education in the States became too steep, I made the leap to Scotland, searching for a more affordable way to finish my degree.

That plan didn’t go as expected—residency rules and health complications had other ideas—but sometimes life’s detours lead to the best destinations. Scotland became home, and I haven’t looked back since.

Where It All Began: Beer, Hospitality, and Outback Steakhouse

My love affair with beer started in Bloomington, Indiana. That’s where I got a job at Outback Steakhouse. The food wasn’t exactly fine dining, but the training was no joke—shadowing senior staff, passing exams, and learning the ins and outs of creating a great guest experience. That laid the foundation for my 15-year career in hospitality.

It was also where I discovered Upland Brewing Co., and more importantly, Upland Wheat—an orange, clove, and coriander Belgian-style wheat beer that changed everything for me. My best mate Matt introduced me to it, and from that first sip, I was hooked. Every Sunday, we’d fill our growlers with fresh beer, watch the NFL, and talk about life. Beer became more than just a drink. It was connection.

Scotland, Setbacks, and a New Beginning

When I moved to Scotland, the plan was simple: finish my degree and start a new chapter. But as a British citizen without Scottish residency, I didn’t qualify for SAAS funding. University plans stalled. So, I pivoted back to what I knew—hospitality—and landed a job at The Butchershop Bar & Grill. My steak knowledge came in handy, but what really drew me in was their commitment to service. It reignited my passion for creating unforgettable experiences around food and drink.

Just nine months into my new life in Scotland, I was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Over the next two and a half years, I went through multiple chemo regimens and surgeries. It was the toughest time of my life—but also the most clarifying.

With a 50/50 chance of survival, I knew I had to focus on what mattered. While in the hospital, I wrote my first business plan. I also met my now-wife during that time. Life was throwing everything at me—but it was also setting the stage for something bigger.

Craft Beer Meets Community: The Birth of Grunting Growler

Reflecting on those Sundays in Indiana, I realised it wasn’t just about beer—it was about moments. I wanted to bring that feeling to Glasgow: great beer, great service, and meaningful connections.

That’s how Grunting Growler was born.

Over the past eight years, our shop and bar have grown and evolved—refurbishments, new beer styles, exciting breweries from across the UK. But our mission has always been the same:
To showcase the UK’s most exciting craft beers, in a space that’s welcoming, friendly, and all about community.

We’re deeply inspired by Glasgow’s incredible food and drink scene. Independent businesses are the soul of this city. They innovate, they hustle, and they do it all for the love—not just the profit. I’m proud that we’re part of that ecosystem.

Why Grunting Growler Exists

Our story isn’t just about beer. It’s about resilience, community, and finding joy in the details. Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just curious to try something new, we want you to feel at home here.

Want to see what we’re pouring this week?
👉 Check out our latest tap list
👉 Or browse our online bottle shop

And if you're new around here, pop in for a chat. You’ll always be welcome.