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GLASGOW guide to...
INSPIRING THIRST SINCE 1873
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elcome to our second ‘Wee’ Glasgow guide. In this pocket-sized publication, we focus on some great places to eat and drink in Glasgow. Whether you love burgers, seafood, Italian or steak, or perhaps you are an afternoon tea aficionado, whatever your tastes run to we are sure there are some excellent places to whet your appetite here. But it’s not just food we’ve also got some first class bars and pubs for you to try too. It’s not the definitive guide – but it is our ‘Wee Guide’ and hopefully you’ll manage to try them out whether you are a local or a visitor to Glasgow. It’s not only the food and drink that is great in Glasgow; the city is renowned for its friendliness and hospitality too. I hope you find this ‘Wee Guide’ useful. If you would like to view it online you can at dramscotland.co.uk Susan Young Publisher
Contents
Cheers to Beers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Cocktail Bars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Fine Dining. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Something Fishy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Gastro Pub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Some Hae Meat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Mediterranean. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 All Night Long. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Scottish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Time for Tea. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Whisky Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Best of the Rest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 PUBLISHED BY MEDIA WORLD LIMITED UPPER FLOOR / FINNIESTON HOUSE, 1 THE STABLES YARD / 1103 ARGYLE STREET, GLASGOW / G3 8ND t. 0141 221 6965 e. dram@mail.com web. www.dramscotland.co.uk
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Cheers To Beers
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eer is definitely the drink of the moment. While Scotland can lay claim to being ‘oil rich’, Glasgow is undoubtedly ‘beer rich’. The city has a plethora of bars, with the finest of beers in stock. No matter where you are in the city, you can find a tasty brew from from all corners of the earth. Be it Cuba, Kenya, Japan, Estonia Laos, or the Czech Republic, Belgium, Australia and America, and of course, our very own Glasgow brews. There is a taste for every beer palate. First stop in the city centre has to be the Bier Halle; you won’t be short of choice; at last count, they had 104. A true beer-lovers haven. And let’s not forget their 2-4-1 pizzas. The Raven, on Renfield Street, has that Sunday session vibe about it – 7 days a week! Its constantly revolving craft beer and cask ale selection ensures that not only are beer enthusiasts accounted for, but, quoth the Raven, ‘every visit is unique’; and that it certainly is. A visit to Drygate Brewing Co. in the East End of the city is a must, if only to taste their three ‘core beers’, Outspace Apple Ale, Gladeyeye IPA and Bearface Lager. Offering panoramic views of the Brewhouse, 24 rotating taps and 200 bottles, Drygate is the Disneyland for the beer aficionado. The Southside is host to pub and microbrewery Clockwork Beer Co. With an extensive range of cask and bottled craft beers, and an enticing beer garden what more do you need? Glasgow may be twinned with Nuremberg in Germany, but it seems we’re becoming more akin to Munich. The Beer capital of the world.
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BIER HALLE
9 Gordon Street, Glasgow T: 0141 204 0706 www.republicbierhalle.com BierHalleGlasgow @bier_halle
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itting quietly off Buchanan Street the Bier Halle is easy enough to miss, though if you’re a fan of world beers then you’ll be sure to make this a must-visit destination. The bar was the first in Glasgow to stock an extensive list of beers from around the globe, and to this day, it remains as popular and busy as ever. As the name would imply, the Bier Halle takes its inspiration from Eastern European bierr halles, offering over 100 chilled ‘biers’, both bottled and draught, including frequent guests from all over the world. One of the biggest appeals of the bar is its food offers, with the everpopular ‘2-4-1’ pizza deal leading the charge.
Cheers To Beers
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THE CLOCKWORK BEER CO.
1153-1155 Cathcart Rd Glasgow G42 9HB T: 0141 649 0184 www.clockworkbeercompany.co.uk TheClockworkBeerCompany @ClockworkBeerco
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ituated a stone’s throw from Hampden, Clockwork Beer Co. is one of Glasgow’s oldest microbreweries. It has a fantastic award winning beer garden, private function space and car park available. It has a fantastic range of cask and bottled craft beers available and also offers a discount to CAMRA members. Weekly entertainment includes Open Mic Night every Monday from 9 pm, a Quiz every Thursday from 9 pm and a live band on the last Friday of the month. It also has monthly tap takeover and meet the brewer events. Food is served Mon-Fri 12-9 pm and 10-9 pm Sat and Sun.
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Cheers To Beers
DRYGATE BREWING CO.
85 Drygate, Glasgow G4 0UT T: 0141 212 8810 www.drygate.com DrygateBrewing @drygate
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collaboration between Scotland’s iconic Tennent’s Brewery and Williams Bros Brewing Co., Drygate is the beer destination that the East End of Glasgow was crying out for. Comprising of a bar, restaurant, on-site brewery and shop, Drygate has everything a beer fanatic could wish for under one roof. The bar has over 30 cask and keg taps, featuring the brewery’s core range of three beers Outaspace Apple Ale, Gladeye IPA and Bearface Lager – as well as a constantly rotating collection of some top class brews. The Vintage restaurant, which serves dishes such as Smoked Duck Breast and Assiette of Beef, has windows looking into the brewery, where Drygate’s team of three master brewers also provide beer-making masterclasses to those eager to learn the art of beer production.
Cheers To Beers
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THE RAVEN
81-85 Renfield St, Glasgow G2 1NQ 0141 332 6151 www.theravenglasgow.com theravenglasgow @TheRavenGlasgow
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elcome to The Raven – a warm and welcoming haven in Glasgow City Centre, nestled between the bustling streets of Sauchiehall St and Buchanan Street. It prides itself on its extensive craft beer and cask ale selection from the best of Scottish breweries and its wonderful smoked food. Many a lucky wanderer has discovered the gem that is The Raven on the hunt for a delicious meal before a gig or the cinema, or in search of a place to refuel after a hard day’s shopping. It also has the Nest Bar upstairs for all live sports action.
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Cheers To Beers
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Cocktail Bars
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hen it comes to cocktails, Glasgow has plenty to impress the curious palette with a fantastic variety of bars and interesting creations to try. The competition between cocktail bars is heated so venues continue to push the boundaries of creativity, tempting customers with a continuously evolving selection of cocktails. And behind every great cocktail is a talented mixologist – of which Glasgow has many. Enjoying a cocktail is all about the experience; starting with a discussion about your taste preferences, your mixologist will point you in the direction of suitable drinks before crafting the cocktail in front of you, putting on a show! For them, a cocktail is more than just a drink, it’s a work of art: the fancier the finish, the better. The bars listed are modern, stylish and most importantly, welcoming and mixologists are happy to talk you through the creative process. That way you are guided to your perfect drink, and if you can’t find it, they’ll customise your ideal concoction. Strata is a stylish city-centre bar, located on Queen Street, which offers a large selection of cocktails. A short walk away is Boudoir, a small and romantic cocktail bar in Merchant Square. Hard Rock cafe on Buchanan street serves a variety of classic cocktails and jugs, while nearby Blue Dog on West Regent Street is award winning. Moskito on Bath Street is a welcoming basement bar with staff who are happy to mix up your favourite tipple. The clue is in the name with Gin71, which specialises in gin-infused offerings on Renfield Street. If you’re more of a rum drinker, head to Distill in Finnieston where you’ll find a selection of rum, gin and vodka cocktails.
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BLUE DOG
151 West George Street, Glasgow G2 2JJ T: 0141 229 0707 www.bluedogglasgow.co.uk @BlueDog_Glasgow
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ith cocktails on offer all over the city, Blue Dog has maintained it’s mantle as THE place to go to and boasts several of the industry’s top awards to boot. The cocktails, an exciting live entertainment programme, a diverse and eclectic clientele and all of it mixed together in a New York style piano bar setting makes this bar unique and allows it to serve up one of the best drinking experiences that the city has to offer. The bar opens seven days a week until 3 am
Cocktail Bars
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BOUDOIR
Merchant Square, Candleriggs Glasgow, G1 1LE T: 0141 552 4774 www.boudoirwinebar.com boudoir.glasgow @BoudoirWineBar
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oudoir is an award winning French & Italian inspired Wine & Cocktail Bar, like the bustling back street wine bars that you stumble upon in cities such as Paris & Rome. Boudoir is a fresh, contemporary wine bar full of character & elegance with a vibrant heart. Our aim is to provide: Great Products, Great Service, Great Atmosphere. Boudoir is positioned on the corner of the historic Merchant Square within the heart of the fashionable Merchant City. Open 12 - midnight, 7 days a week.
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Cocktail Bars
DISTILL
1102 - 1106 Argyle Street, Finnieston Glasgow, G3 7RX T: 0141 337 3006 www.distillbar.co.uk distillglasgow @DistillGla
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haven for Glasgow’s rum drinkers, Distill is in the very heart of the city’s trendy Finnieston area. As well as a dazzling array of quality rums Distill also serves up a range of luscious cocktails and world beers. The bar comes to life at the weekend, with house DJs playing to the young, pre-club clientele in the bar while the regularly booked-out restaurant area at the back of the building serves quality, home-made produce at more than reasonable prices.
Cocktail Bars
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GIN71
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71 Renfield St, Glasgow G2 1LP T: 0141 353 2959 www.gin71.com gin71bar @Gin71Bar
in71 was Glasgow’s first dedicated Gin bar specialising in all things juniper! The bar offers the luxury of fully seated service, expertly trained bar and waiting staff and is guaranteed to spoil you for choice with it’s menu of over 71 different gins, vast cocktail selection and unique ‘Gin Flights’. Experts and beginners alike will find the atmosphere of the bar inviting and luxurious with its original tiled interior dating back to the Victorian era and its friendly and helpful staff. Whether you’re new to the spirit, or consider yourself a gin expert, we’re certain you’ll discover new delights at Gin71.
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Cocktail Bars
HARD ROCK CAFE
179 Buchanan St, Glasgow G1 2JZ T: 0141 353 8790 www.hardrock.com/glasgow Hard Rock Cafe Glasgow
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@HRCGlasgow
ocated in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Style Mile in the restored, renaissance-inspired Atheanaeum Theatre, Hard Rock is a haven for fans of music, food, and great times. With historic musical memorabilia gracing every wall, Hard Rock Cafe Glasgow fits right into the historic charm of the area and honours the history of the Atheanaeum Theatre. Whether you are down for a Legendary Burger, live music, a Classic Tee, a Cocktail at the bar or the latest collectible pin, there’s something for everyone. Hard Rock Cafe Glasgow serves up authentic experiences that rockgreat food, great times. Book Now! Love All – Serve All.
Cocktail Bars
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MOSKITO
200 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 4HG T: 0141 331 1777 www.moskitoglasgow.com @MoskitoGlasgow
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oskito is a multi award winning basement bar on Bath Street that has been open for 14 years. It has a laid back, cosy feel in the bar, and plenty of comfortable booths to enjoy a quick lunch or spend the night with a bunch of friends. The atmosphere is relaxed and the service friendly. The kitchen is open 7 days a week and its menu is available until 9pm. It has a varied and extensive drinks range and more than 25 cocktails on its list. If you don’t see one you fancy the bar staff will be more than happy to make you a cocktail of your choice.
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Cocktail Bars
STRATA
45 Queen Street, Glasgow G1 3EH T: 0141 221 1888 www.strataqs.com
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t Strata they pride themselves on being a haven for shoppers, visitors to the city and local workers looking for quality food prepared with the freshest ingredients and excellent drinks. Its cocktails are served up by its super bartenders who work from a list that stretches to 30 cocktails. It also has five premium continental lagers on draught, in excess of 50 premium spirits on the gantry, a wine list to keep even the most delicate nose satisfied and a whole fridge dedicated to the best small batch craft beer from around the world. Your only problem will be deciding what to have next.
Cocktail Bars
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GFT is a charity registered in Scotland No SC005932
F ine Dining
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ost people would agree that a fine dining restaurant has a more formal atmosphere than most restaurants. But in Glasgow, you can get fine dining and a relaxed atmosphere too. Brian Maule at Chardon D’Or on West Regent Street offers a French inspired menu in setting that is formal yet inviting. Exemplary service and mouth watering dishes set this restaurant apart. Another fine dining restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and superb food is The Gannet on Argyle Street at Finnieston. Critics rave about the quality of the food and it is no surprise that it has a Bib Gourmand accreditation from the Michelin Guide. Two Fat Ladies at The Buttery is a classic fine dining venue. It is a Glasgow institution with the slickest of service, and luxurious surroundings. It may be a bit off the beaten track but it is well worth seeking out. It offers a menu which features seafood and locally sourced produce and it also boasts a fine wine list. Other fine dining restaurants worth visiting include 111 by Nico in Kelvindale, which has had rave reviews, and The Western Club at Royal Exchange Square.
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BRIAN MAULE AT CHARDON D’OR 176 W Regent St, Glasgow G2 4RL T: 0141 248 3801 www.brianmaule.com Brian Maule at Chardon d’Or Restaurant @LeChardondOr
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his contemporary fine dining restaurant run by acclaimed Chef Brian Maule is a favourite with Glasgow foodies. The first class service and the exquisitely delivered dishes can’t be faulted. Brian Maule takes the running of his restaurant very seriously and spends his time in the kitchen, working with his team, overseeing the cooking of every dish as it leaves his kitchen. However its not only the food that leaves the kitchen you’ll often find Brian chatting to guests. He is a chef patron who believes in a hands-on approach but although he may take his food very seriously, his approach to diners is warm and welcoming.
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F ine Dining
THE GANNET
1155 Argyle Street, Finnieston, Glasgow G3 8TB T: 0141 2042081 www.thegannetgla.com TheGannetGla
@TheGannetGla
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he Gannet is an award winning Scottish independent bar and restaurant in Finnieston. Whether it’s small bar plates or more substantial restaurant dishes you can expect a modern take on classical cooking here. It’s food celebrates all that’s great about Scottish produce, and of course the menu is dictated by the rhythms of the British seasons The restaurant itself is contemporary but a bit rustic too, but although the surrounds do matter it is really the food here that counts. Chefs Peter McKenna and Ivan Stein have recently retained their Bib Gourmand accreditation from the Michelin Guide, and reviews from critics continue to be very favourable.
F ine Dining
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TWO FAT LADIES AT THE BUTTERY 652-654 Argyle Street Glasgow G3 8UF T: 0141 221 8188 www.twofatladiesrestaurant.com/buttery
Two-Fat-Ladies-at-The-Buttery
@TwoFatLadies88
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he Buttery is one of the best loved and well known restaurants in Scotland – a real Glaswegian institution! Celebrating formal Scottish luxury, the interior boasts oak & mahogany, stained glass and tartan upholstery and carpets. The menu offers the sort of top quality cooking Two Fat Ladies at The Buttery are renowned for, offering fresh Scottish seafood and delicious, locally sourced produce. Current dishes include pan-fried fillet of Mallaig halibut, spring onion mash, saffron & smoked fish cream; roast saddle of Ayrshire lamb, minted rhubarb and apple compote, to give you a flavour of its menu.
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F ine Dining
Something F ishy
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cotland is renowned the world over for the quality of its seafood, so it’s hardly surprising that the country’s largest city should have such a wealth of super fish and seafood restaurants. The venues listed here are the best of the best when it comes to seafood in Glasgow. Gamba is certainly one of our favourite restaurants and it has a fabulous reputation for great seafood. In fact, it was recently named the UK Seafood Restaurant of The Year It is also a two AA rosette seafood restaurant. The West George Street restaurant is also acclaimed for its commitment to sourcing sustainable stocks. Glasgow’s most famous restaurant, Rogano on Exchange Place is an upmarket, art deco venue with a superb outdoor seating area and its oysters are legendary! Rogano is the oldest surviving restaurant in Glasgow and for seventy-five and more its chefs have served customers the finest fish and seafood. Two Fat Ladies in Glasgow’s West End was the original ‘Two Fat Ladies’ and it has always offered really good quality seafood. It’s a small restaurant and quite quirky but that is part of its charm while its sister restaurant Two Fat Ladies in the City also offers the finest seafood cuisine. Scottish seafood and produce are prepared with respect and skill by its chefs. Morblas Seafood and Grill at the Hilton in William Street offers modern European cuisine in bright, attractive surroundings. Decked out in soothing colours with woodpanelled walls, Morblas evokes the pastoral tranquility of Scotland’s rolling landscapes in a chic city centre location. Other restaurants not featured in the Wee Guide but worth visiting are The Crabshakk in Finnieston and The Fish People Cafe in Bridge Street.
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GAMBA
225a West George Street, Glasgow G2 2ND T: 0141 572 0899 www.gamba.co.uk gambaglasgow @Gamba_Glasgow
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amba is an award winning seafood restaurant in the city centre of Glasgow, serving some of the finest sustainable seafood that Scotland has to offer. Awards last year included the accolade Seafood Restaurant of the Year 2015 in the UK its menu’s are updated every six weeks with staple favourites including locally sourced Isle of Gigha halibut, hand-dived king scallops and Scottish lobster. Indeed, Gamba was the first Glasgow member of the Sustainable Restaurant Association and has held two AA rosettes since 1998. If you’re in the city centre and love seafood, you owe it to yourself to visit Gamba.
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Something F ishy
MORBLAS SEAFOOD AND GRILL 1 William St, Glasgow G3 8HT T: 0141 204 5555 www.morblas.co.uk
HiltonGlasgow
@hiltonglasgow
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ecorated with Scotland’s rugged coasts of the west and unspoiled beauty of the north in mind, we invite you to dine in the rustic yet refined atmosphere that is Morblas Seafood and Grill. Our service and kitchen teams are proud to present a menu sourced from sustainable suppliers. Our choice to use local produce as much as possible is key to ensuring we prepare local dishes, in season, which have the least impact on our planet. Our resident butcher ensures that you only are offered cuts of meat of the very highest quality whilst our Executive Chef sources only the freshest local fish caught daily by local fishermen. Chef Graham Gardner and his team are passionate about creating, simple, great food with an enticing seasonal menu where the ingredient is the star which you can enjoy with a glass of wine from our extensive list or simply a glass of local beer.
Somethimg F ine Dining F ishy
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ROGANO
11 Exchange Place, Glasgow G1 3AN T: 0141 248 4055 www.roganoglasgow.com roganorestaurant @roganoglasgow
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stablished in 1935, Rogano is Glasgow’s oldest surviving restaurant and arguably its most famous. The distinctive Art Deco design remains as a nod to Rogano’s past and provides a distinctive 1930s ambience, while the elegance of the interior is matched by the immaculately dressed and courteous staff. Although Rogano founded its reputation on top-quality, fresh seafood, the Oyster Bar serves up classic cocktails and Champagne by the glass for visitors wishing to enjoy a drink in good company and relaxing surroundings. The outside terrace area is particularly popular in the summer, and a small dining room is available downstairs for those looking for a private meal with friends.
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Something F ishy
TWO FAT LADIES IN THE WEST END 88 Dumbarton Road Glasgow G11 6NX T: 0141 339 1944 www.twofatladiesrestaurant.com/westend
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@TwoFatLadies88
wo Fat Ladies in the West End is the original restaurant in the trio that now makes up the Two Fat Ladies family. It is a firmly established Glasgow favourite at No 88 Dumbarton Road and has an excellent reputation for consistently good food. With an intimate dining room and an open-kitchen, diners can see and smell what the chef is cooking up. The menu is varied from beautiful succulent West Coast scallops with carrot jam, crispy kale and Stornoway black pudding to foil wrapped, oven baked salmon and juicy steaks too. It’s a real haven at the bottom end of Byres Road and once discovered you are not likely to forget it!
Something F ishy
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TWO FAT LADIES IN THE CITY
118A Blythswood Street Glasgow G2 4EG T: 0141 847 0088 www.twofatladiesrestaurant.com/citycentre Two-Fat-Ladies-City-Centre
@TwoFatLadies88
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wo Fat Ladies restaurant in Blythswood Street has been opened since 2005 and offers city centre diners a menu that is ‘seriously fishy’. Two Fat Ladies’ city centre restaurant exudes class and elegance. The diners have lovely surroundings in which to dine – from the seafood inspired plasterwork to the metalwork on the windows. The décor is designed to celebrate the best of Scottish seafood and this restaurant does just that offering daily fish platters, dishes such as whole lemon sole, crayfish, almond and orange butter, and whole roast gurnard. It also caters for carnivores in the shape of pressed pork belly and Scotch beef fillet. It’s all delicious!
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Something F ishy
Gastro Pub
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ost people these days expect to get good pub grub, but some pubs excel at providing a casual dining experience but with food that is definitely above par and Glasgow has no shortage of these. Generally, you find that good gastro pubs serve locally-sourced produce and a mix of contemporary and classical dishes. The Drake on Woodlands Road does just that. It boasts a cosy and inviting interior complete with log burning fire, and an ever-changing menu. From traditional fish and chips to a more unusual offering such as The Drake Haggis Scotch Egg...there is a dish to suit every palate, and the prices are modest too. There is nothing better than sitting by the fire at The Drake, with your dog at your feet (yes dogs are allowed) with a glass of wine and the enticing menu. Shandon Belles situated below Two Fat Ladies at The Buttery is a real find. This basement bar and bistro offers comfortable corners and a warm and welcoming décor, and a very tasty varied menu. Dishes range from Shepherd’s Pie to Saag Aloo curry. It also does a mean cocktail. Stravaigin on Gibson Street is a bustling cafe bar which also allows well-behaved dogs. It has an eclectic menu featuring dishes as diverse as Kohlrabi noodle salad and Korean crispy chicken thighs, and the famous Stravaigin burger, of course. The Ubiquitous Chip has various floors, if you are in the restaurant on the ground floor expect a fine dining experience, but upstairs you’ll find a different take on the menu and a more pub-like atmosphere. That’s why we consider it one of Glasgow’s best gastro pubs.
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THE DRAKE
1 Lynedoch St, Kelvingrove Glasgow G3 6EF T: 0141 332 7363 www.thedrakebar.co.uk The-Drake-Bar
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he Drake is a gastro style bar/restaurant which puts a lot of emphasis on quality affordable food and drinks in a relaxed, “local feel” environment. With original bare brickwork, coal fires, garden area to front and rear and a townhouse style restaurant and private dining space upstairs it is comfortably stylish. It boasts a good beer selection and some fine wines, and if you are a sporting fan you won’t be disappointed it shows all major sporting events. To top it off it is family and dog-friendly too.
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Gastro Pub
THE SHANDON BELLES
652-654 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8UF T: +44 141 221 8188 twofatladiesrestaurant.com/shandonbelles @TwoFatLadies88
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his basement restaurant on the lesser known part of Argyle Street (near Anderson Station) is well worth seeking out. Comfortable corners, stained glass and exposed brick work add character to the welcoming decor, creating a delightful ambience. As part of the Two Fat Ladies Group, The Shandon Belles offers the same high standard of food and service but in a more relaxed and informal setting. Unlike its big sisters, the menu is less about fish and more about quality hearty fare with influences from the World over. This quirky, cosy bistro offers simple, honest and well cooked fresh food at very reasonable prices. Coupled with a competitively priced and well judged wine list, this is one dining experience you won’t want to miss.
Gastro Pub
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STRAVAIGIN
28 Gibson Street, Kelvinbridge, Glasgow G12 8NX T: 0141 334 2665 www.stravaigin.co.uk Stravaigin @StravaiginG12
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travaigin is a Glasgow institution. Distinguished by its floor to ceiling windows and roaring fire, the bar motto of ‘Think Global, Eat Local’ is exemplified by the diverse, award-winning menu which is served daily until 11pm. Breakfast is served from 9am11am Monday - Friday and its famous brunch is just the ticket. The restaurant downstairs has a different offering to the cafe bar upstairs which is the more casual of the two areas. The bar area is always teeming with familiar faces, and feels very much like a local bar in Glasgow’s bustling West End.
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Gastro Pub
UBIQUITOUS CHIP
12 Ashton Lane, Glasgow G12 8SJ T: 0141 334 5007 www.ubiquitouschip.co.uk UbiquitousChip @ubiquitouschip
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hat The Ubiquitous Chip remains such an integral component of Glasgow’s West End is a testament to the Clydesdale family’s commitment to quality. Over the course of its 40 plus years The Chip has consistently been at the cutting edge of the food and drink scene while retaining the uniqueness of character and variety of clientele that help make the place special. With three bars, the Brasserie, a rooftop terrace and a world-renowned restaurant, it’s a great place to meet old and new friends to enjoy a lovingly made cocktail, one of dozen of wines by the glass or first class, Scottish cuisine.
Gastro Pub
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Glasgow Marriott Hotel 500 Argyle Street Glasgow, G3 8RR Glasgow Marriott Hotel @MARRIOTTGLASGOW www.marriott.co.uk/Glasgow
Going to see a concert at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow?
PRE CONCERT DINING
Kick the evening off at Source Grill restaurant with great Scottish produce from the best of local suppliers. E: mhrs.qladt.fbservices.manager@marriothotels.com T: 0141 226 1511
Looking for a tasting session for one of your events or celebrations?
WHISKY TASTING SESSION
Then ask us about tailoring a package to your requirements. T: 0141 226 1511 All offers are subject to availability and bookings 35 must be made in advance.
Some Hae Meat
A
s Scottish beef enjoys world wide fame, it makes sense that Scotland’s biggest city has plenty of restaurants which make it the focal point of their dining experience. It’s not all about beef though. Whether you are looking for a traditional mixed grill, slab of steak, Gourmet burger or duck slider, you’ll find an incredible variety of produce to bring out your inner carnivore. The restaurants listed pride themselves on serving only the best cuts both on and off the bone, with many steaks aged between 28 and 40 days. The burger revolution shows no sign of slowing and specialist meat restaurants are constantly being pushed by new diners-onthe-block, to make their burgers more complex and enticing. Found deep in the bowels of Central Station, Alston Bar and Beef is a speciality steakhouse serving up the highest quality beef in a spectacular setting. NY American Grill is a stylish diner on Buchanan Street which focusses on adding a smoky flavour to its dishes and nearby Grill Room at the Square is renowned for its dry-aged steaks which have won it several awards. Meat Bar on West Regent Street does what it says on the tin, serving a range of meaty sliders, burgers and slow-cooked offerings plus a meat-infused cocktail! The wellestablished Butchershop in the West End is a Manhattan-style steakhouse using on the best grass-fed Scottish beef.
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ALSTON BAR & BEEF
Central Station, 79 Gordon Street, Glasgow, G1 3SQ T: 0141 221 7627 www.alstonglasgow.co.uk alstonglasgow @alstonglasgow
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ocated in the catacombs deep below Central Station, Alston Bar and Beef serves up some of the city’s finest quality meat in a truly unique setting. A staircase descends from the station entrance to the arches below, placing the diner initially in front of the kitchen, highlighting the central role that the chefs play in the venue’s identity. The 60 seat restaurant to the rear of the building specialises in 28-35 day dry-aged steaks; Alston’s beef is of the highest quality, with the Porterhouse steak, in particular, being a house speciality. Another dish of note is the Alston Mixed Grill, a true meat-lovers dream. After your meal, you can enjoy a drink or two in the venue’s adjacent gin bar.
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Some Hae Meat
BUTCHERSHOP BAR & GRILL
1055 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow G3 7UD T: 0141 339 2999 www.butchershopglasgow.com butchershopglasgow @butchershopgla
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ne of the most talked about steakhouses in Scotland, The Butchershop Bar & Grill serves only the very best dry-aged, 100% grass fed Scotch beef; whiskies; world wines and signature cocktails. By working closely with their fourth generation butchers this steakhouse has a second to none selection of cuts both on and off the bone including their signature 35-day dry-aged t-bones and cote de boeufs, down to their truly special reserve cut tomahawk steaks. Located in the heart of the West End with spectacular views of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games venue – The Kelvingrove Lawn Bowls Centre, and with The SSE Hydro and SECC on its doorstep, The Butchershop is the ultimate dining experience in Glasgow.
Some Hae Meat
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GRILL ROOM AT THE SQUARE
29 Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow G1 3AJ T: 0141 225 5615 www.29glasgow.co.uk 29Glasgow @29Glasgow
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he Grill at the Square on Glasgow’s Royal Exchange Square prides itself on providing traditional cuisine and outstanding hospitality. It is famous for its impressive steaks and has private membership to the exclusive Scotch Beef Club, which allows the restaurant to offer prime steaks which are dry-aged for 28 days for tenderness and flavour. Diners also get a chance to sample home-cooked warm bread as they wait for their steaks to cook. It’s a nice touch. This award winning restaurant, with a lovely view out across the Square, has not just received accolades for its food but its service too.
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Some Hae Meat
MEAT BAR
142 West Regent Street, Glasgow G2 2RQ T: 0141 204 3605 www.themeatbar.co.uk meatbarglasgow @Meatbarglasgow
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he Meat Bar specialises in home-smoked meats, American BBQ and prime Scottish beef. As you would expect from the bar’s name the menu boasts a variety of carnivorous delights, such as its 40-day dry-aged steaks and slow-cooked Kansas style pork ribs. The smokehouse sandwiches served on custom made ciabattas are another house speciality, and for those with a sweet tooth, a variety of classic American desserts are on offer. The bar also features a vast array of Scottish and American craft beers as well as unique and savoury cocktails. The Meat Bat was recently announced as the Kopparberg Independent Bar of the Year at the 2014 DRAM Awards and was also a finalist in the Cocktail Bar arena with a meat infused cocktail!
Some Hae Meat
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NY AMERICAN GRILL
2nd Floor, Princes Square 48 Buchanan Street Glasgow G1 3JX T: 0141 221 7667 www.nyamericangrill.co.uk nyamericangrill @nyamericangrill
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Y American Grill offers an authentic American coast-to-coast dining experience offering unique flavours of the deep south and simplistic but delicious dishes from the East coast. All the burgers and steaks are cooked on a ‘Josper’ Grill to give them a unique smoky flavour reminiscent of the true taste of America. it also Boasts a relaxed New York style bar, where you can enjoy cocktails, champagne, American craft beers or one of twenty traditional Bourbons. The NY American Grill is certainly worth a visit.
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Some Hae Meat
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scottishopera.org.uk Registered in Scotland Number SCO37531 Scottish Charity Number SCO19787
Mediterranean
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lasgow is home to one of the largest Italian communities in the UK which is why there are such a variety of Italian cafes and restaurants in the city. Glasgow’s Italian eateries aren’t confined to any particular area of the city; you’re as likely to find a top quality Italian restaurant in the West End as you are in the Merchant City. La Lanterna is regarded as one of the best Italian restaurants in the city and it is Glasgow’s oldest family-run Italian restaurant. It has won numerous accolades over the years, no doubt because of the passion of the owners and the authentic Italian food on offer. It was recently refurbished and the new-look has created an even cosier and inviting restaurant. Panevino in Finnieston only opened a few years ago but already it has established itself as a cool wee Italian haunt serving up some tasty food. Caffe Parma, in the West End, is the latest addition to the scene but it’s owner has a fine family pedigree in the Glasgow Italian restaurant scene. The newest edition, which follows Paperino’s and La Parmigiana, is a light and airy Caffe and restaurant which specialises in Northern Italian dishes and the famous Cicchetti. Of course there are also a plethero of Spanish restaurants too but our favourite is definitely Cafe Andaluz. There is a West End restaurant, which is cosy and inviting, and a perpetually busy city centre venue. Both restaurants offer delicious tapas, served quickly and efficiently, which makes it an ideal venue particularly if you only have an hour to spare.
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CAFE ANDALUZ
2 Cresswell Lane, Glasgow G12 8AA T: 0141 339 1111 www.cafeandaluz.com cafeandaluzglasgowcitycentre @CafeAndaluzGlas
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here are two Cafe Andaluz in Glasgow, one is situated just at George Square and the other in the West End. We like the basement cosiness of the latter. As you imagine this is Spanish through and through featuring a tiled floor, rustic furniture and some brightly coloured cushions. It offers tasty tapas, the obligatory Sangria and plenty of bread and olives. Of course it also has a fine selection of Spanish wines. Best of all the service is excellent so whether you want to linger or have quick bite, this is ideal.
Mediterranean
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LA LANTERNA
35 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 6AE T: 0141 221 9160 www.lalanterna-glasgow.co.uk lalanternaglasgow @LaLanterna1970
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stablished in 1970, La Lanterna is Glasgow’s oldest family-run Italian restaurant and the family vibe is obvious as soon as you walk through the door. The team have a great passion for what they do and take pride in the classic food & first-class service. Authentic Italian food means everything to La Lanterna. The restaurant was not only refurbished with a fresh new look in 2015 but also, there are some sumptuous new additions to the menus. La Lanterna is a cosy, friendly and inviting restaurant with the added benefit of delicious Italian food! Open Monday - Saturday, closed Sunday.
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Mediterranean
PANEVINO
1075 Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8LY T: 0141 221 1136 www.panevino.co.uk panevinoglasgow
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his authentic Italian eatery in Finnieston is just about the closest you will get to a typical authentic Italian hang out, but in Glasgow. The horseshoe shaped bar with its marble top invites you to sit at the bar and enjoy the hustle and bustle of this eatery. Whether you have just popped for an Espresso, that the owner says is the best outside of Italy, or a warming bowl of minestrone, the food is imaginative and benefits from the fact that only authentic Italian ingredients are used. It offers freshly cooked hearty food for busy bodies on the go, small plates and homemade dishes, sharing anti pasti and of course between 3pm and 6pm Tuesday to Friday it does the traditional Aperitivo experience – bar bites and Prosecco but that’s not all it also offers 30 wines by the glass. Perfecto!
Mediterranean
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CAFFE PARMA
30a Hyndland Rd Glasgow, G12 9UP T: 141 334 3811 www.caffeparma.co.uk caffeparmaglasgow @CaffeParma
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he city of Parma, from which Caffe Parma’s founder originates, provides the inspiration for both the menus and ethos of Caffè Parma, drawing on the Northern Italian culture of community and sharing as well as the importance of delivering authentic dishes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Situated right beside the Western Tennis Club on Hyndland Road, Caffe Parma is light and bright restaurant which is open all day, serving freshly brewed coffee and pastries for breakfast or indeed at any time. It offers its signature cicchetti dishes and sharing platters, great pizzas, and great pasta dishes all of which can can be enjoyed day or night.
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Mediterranean
All Night Long
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n Glasgow, you’re never far from a party. Whether it’s a late-night dram or dancefloor you’re looking for, you’ll find some of the finest haunts in Scotland here. Whatever your age or taste in music, be it rock, pop, dance or disco, you’ll find a venue which suits your style. Not only that, but each of the venues listed serves a selection of great drinks and you can expect the friendly service typical of Glasgow. Many of the clubs listed are well-established institutions with loyal followings, delivering parties that fans have come to know and love week after week. Not keen for the dancefloor? You’ll find a number of bars keep their doors open until 3am, allowing customers to enjoy a late-night tipple and chat. Although there is only a small number of late bars in the city, they are often buzzing with late-night clientele. For feel-good chart music and an energetic crowd, check out The Garage on Sauchiehall Street, the biggest party destination in town which is open every night of the year. Nearby Bunker on Bath Street is subterranean lounge open every night until late which offers pool, cocktails, and spacious sunken seating. And further along Bath Street you will find BLOC+ which prides itself on providing excellent food, drink and music at very responsible prices. Kokomo is a stylish new clubbing destination on West Regent Street with plenty of private booths available. Or follow in the footsteps of Billy Connelly and pay the Admiral a visit, a live music venue with popular weekend club nights near Central Station. If you are more of a rocker, head to the Cathouse on Union Street which has been a haven for alternative music lovers for 25 years! You can also enjoy rock by candlelight in Merchant City hub Maggie May’s, a Glasgow institution located in Trongate.
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THE ADMIRAL
72a Waterloo St, Glasgow G2 7DA T: 0141 221 7705 www.theadmiralbar.com admiralglasgow @TheAdmiralBar
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he Admiral is an iconic traditional bar with a modern twist - the downstairs club and music venue ‘The Hold’ hosts lots of live music alongside the regular weekend clubnights (Melting Pot, Pretty Ugly, Enterteasement and Divine). The club stays open until 3am on Saturday’s. Not only is it a great party venue but the bar also serves delicious food daily from midday through to 8pm, it’s an ideal place to use as a stop off after work or at lunchtime for a burger and a drink - the drink prices are excellent. The Admiral has a history of attracting entertainment legends that go back decades, including such noteworthies as Billy Connolly in the seventies and Beth Ditto in 2007, Mr Scruff, Horsemeat Disco and others to come in 2016. 49
All Night Long
BLOC+
117 Bath Street, G2 2SZ T: 0141 574 6066 www.bloc.ru @BlocGlasgow
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loc+ is a forward thinking, independent live music bar, venue and eatery in Glasgow’s city centre. It offers excellent bands and DJs 7 nights a week, completely free of charge. One of its aims is to showcase a very eclectic range of musical styles in an unpretentious, relaxed environment. Offering great quality dining including fantastic daily deals, their food has led them to be featured on the likes of MTV. Open till 3am every night, there are also a wide range of drinks deals available too. Bloc’s brilliance lies in its versatility.
All Night Long
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BUNKER
193-199 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 4HU T: 0141 229 1427 www.thebunkerbar.com bunkerglasgow @BunkerBar
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unker is a quality bar and restaurant open 7 days from midday till 3 am for eating, drinking, relaxing and partying. From lunchtime until late into the night it provides a stylish refuge for groups of all sizes. An excellent food menu is served until 9 pm every day with a variety of fantastic mid week offers. The bar is well stocked with a wide range of premium products and serves up impressive promotions, making it the perfect place for a night out with friends. For entertainment our resident DJs play a delectable mix of pop, indie, dance and everything in between until 3am at the weekends. It also boasts free wi-fi access, six wall mounted iPads and a pool table. 51
All Night Long
CATHOUSE
15 Union St, Glasgow G1 3RB T: 0141 248 6606 www.cathouse.co.uk Cathouserocks @CathouseGlasgow
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stablished in 1990, The Cathouse on Union Street is Glasgow’s premier destination for fans of rock music. Few late-night venues can boast such a dedicated following as The Cathouse, and it really is the trademark nightclub for those who live a rock n’ roll lifestyle and appreciate any opt-out alternative aesthetic in their club culture. Having previously played host to such musical luminaries as Pearl Jam, Oasis and Queens of the Stone Age, the club continues to push the boundaries, hosting hot new live acts and guest DJs to feed the demanding appetites of its ever increasing regulars.
All Night Long
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THE GARAGE
490 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow G2 3LW T: 0141 332 1120 www.garageglasgow.co.uk garageglasgow @Garageglasgow
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pen seven days a week and 365 days a year, The Garage is permanently home to the biggest party in town. With a different theme every night the venue is an ever-evolving hub of entertainment. The music of choice is eclectic, taking in Chart, Electro, RnB, Hip Hop and Indie, spread over various different levels and rooms; as well as the Main Hall, there is also The Attic, the G2 Club in the basement, The Snapshots Bar and The Engine Room Cocktail Bar. As well as the late-night club The Garage also doubles as a live music venue in the early evening, with many famous names appearing over the years.
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All Night Long
KOKOMO
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51 West Regent St, Glasgow G2 2AE T: 0141 353 1152 kokomoglasgow.com KokomoGlasgow @kokomoglasgow
OKOMO is a new interpretation of the nightclub concept, designed and executed to perfection by an award-winning team of international designers and architects. Inside, unique materials perfectly compliment the space to create a refined, contemporary setting. Every night it is open, it offers excellent drink promos mixed with music from the best DJ line up in the city. KOKOMO is the perfect club to dance, drink and enjoy the night away. As you travel through KOKOMO, you will also discover its exquisite VIP room The Parlour, which boasts its own bar, sound system and unique party atmosphere. The attention to detail in the design is just as apparent in the service. Friendly staff, great promos, premium pours and good times are its bywords. Simply put, KOKOMO is conceived to have the DNA of another simple three-letter word, FUN.
All Night Long
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MAGGIE MAY
60 The Trongate, Glasgow G1 5EP T: 0141 548 1350 maggiemaysglasgow @MaggieMaysLive
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aggie Mays is a celebrated Glasgow institution that will celebrate its 10 year anniversary later this year. With a decade of hosting live music 7 nights a week, homemade food, cocktails and late night drinking in the Merchant City, this is a rightly celebrated venue and has the accolades to prove it. Acting as a hub for the Merchant City, Maggie Mays boasts a vast range of spirits from around the globe. With an award winning kitchen and intimate restaurant area, diners can enjoy a meal in candlelight surroundings and easily move through to the most vibrant bar or basement area. With a music policy that spans the last half century or so of Rock ‘n’ Roll and all its many offshoots, you are bound to hear some favourites and even discover some new favourites. 55
All Night Long
Scottish
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cotland is famed for its innovators, but the inventing doesn’t stop with medicine and great designers. Chefs in Glasgow use the finest produce from the lands, seas and skies of Scotland to create great dishes. From old favourites such as Cullen Skink to fabulous seafood and great beef, Scotland’s larder is truly magnificent, and some of the restaurants serving up Scottish cuisine are just magnificent too. Ingram Street is home to award-winning Hutchesons Bar and Brasserie which offers a luxury dining experience with a Scottish twist. It’s also got a history to match originally a hospital designed by David Hamilton, one of Glasgow’s great architects, it opened as Hutchesons’ Hall in 1805. Today much of its beauty has been retained and restored - as a three floor dining venue - Hutchesons is a place where people can enjoy its grand spaces and lavish interiors in a convivial environment. The Piper’s Tryst is located within the National Piping Centre in a historic building. This small restaurant offers classic Scottish food with ingredients sourced from Scotland’s best suppliers. Cafe Source is housed in another historical establishment. It is located in the basement of the restored St Andrew’s in the Square church, in the Merchant City. It is known for being one of the inest classical churches in Britain. Today it plays host to the Glasgow Centre for Scottish Culture, which promoting Scottish music, song and dance as well as, of course, Cafe Source which is a contemporary and stylish restaurant and bar which offers a great casual dining experience.
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HUTCHESONS
158 Ingram Street, Glasgow G1 1EJ T: 0141 552 4050 www.hutchesonsglasgow.com hutchesons @HutchesonsGLA
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utchesons is a beautifully restored A-listed architectural icon in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City. Serving the best of Scottish food and drink with outstanding service and character. Immerse yourself in this three-floor dining destination, complete with The 158 Café Bar where you can relax with a glass of champagne, enjoy a late brunch, or sample fabulous fresh seafood and a few classic cocktails. Savour the old school glamour of the Grand Brasserie and you will fully understand why Hutchesons was voted Scotland’s Most Stylish Restaurant. Their exclusive private dining room seats up to 18 and caters for both corporate and private events. A must-visit venue, Hutchesons is open daily for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner.’ 57
Scottish
CAFE SOURCE
1 St Andrews Square, Turnbell Street, Glasgow G1 5PP T: 0141 548 6020 www.cafesource.co.uk @Cafe_Source
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stablished for thirteen years, Cafe Source is one of Glasgow’s top Scottish restaurants. Located in the basement of the restored St Andrew’s in the Square church, the restaurant provides a great casual dining experience. The chefs aim to showcase Scotland’s finest ingredients, sourced from top Scottish suppliers, in delicious and satisfying dishes. The A la Carte menu features traditional Scottish classics with a modern twist alongside brasserie-inspired cuisine prepared with the best of Scottish produce. Cafe Source also serves a range of daily specials, and offers great value lunch and pre-theatre menus. They stock a full range of carefully selected beers, spirits and wines, and use only freshly ground coffee.
Scottish
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THE PIPERS’ TRYST
30-34 McPhater Street, Glasgow G4 0HW T: 0141 353 5551 www.thepipingcentre.co.uk TheNationalPipingCentre @ThePipingCentre
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ocated in the Cowcaddens area of Glasgow City Centre and housed within The National Piping Centre, The Pipers’ Tryst is as classically Scottish as a restaurant can be. The building is a converted church, and also holds a heritage centre and visitor gift shop. The menu features traditional Scottish offerings such as haggis, neeps and tatties, cullen skink, Fraserburgh smoked haddock and a fresh fish of the day. Guests can also order the restaurant’s signature dish, the ‘Taste of Scotland’ platter, with a choice of either meat and fish or vegetarian. With a modern décor and welcoming ambiance, the small but perfectly formed Pipers Tryst is a true Scottish gem.
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Scottish
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Time for Tea
Y
You don’t have to look far to find tea and a cake in Glasgow. Why? Because Glaswegians are sociable folks who love any excuse for a sit down and a chatter. Whether you fancy a hot drink and a bite in a stylish, contemporary setting or a more traditional tea room experience, the city has a variety of great establishments for your to choose from. The cafes, coffee shops and tea-houses of Glasgow are the perfect places to relax and unwind after a long shopping or while sheltering from the infamous Scottish weather. The tea rooms listed in this guide give you an idea of how Glaswegians like to enjoy their downtime, whether it’s luxury afternoon tea you’re after, or just a wee coffee and a cake. We have brought you the best tea-room options, now all you have to do is choose the company! The Bath Street Butterfly and Pig is a comforting step back in time with vintage décor and crockery, and cakes made on the premises. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Cranachan in Princes Square is a contemporary cafe offering Scottish meals and afternoon tea in a stylish setting. House for an Art Lover, Designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, is well worth the trip to Bellahouston Park where you can enjoy tea and cakes surrounded by the famous artist’s designs. And if you are looking for a brew in the West End, head to Cup on Byres road, specialising in a large selection of loose leaf teas and home baking. Kember & Jones which is also in the West End, offers the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed meal or a catch up over a coffee – it also has a fine food emporium which is a joy! Last but no means least why not check out the Hidden Tea Room in Finnieston. This vintage tearoom is a hidden gem offering a fine afternoon tea
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THE BUTTERFLY & THE PIG
The Tearooms, 151 Bath Street, Glasgow T: 0141 243 2459 thetearoomsbathstreet @ButterflyAndPig
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his vintage style venue is best described as welcoming. Its mismatched furniture and wallpaper give The Butterfly and The Pig’s customers a nostalgic experience, which is carried through to the menu too. The Tearooms, above the venue’s main bar area, has the décor and atmosphere that lends itself nicely to a spot of afternoon tea, with customers able to enjoy a hot drink and snack in a quirky, homely environment. Arguably The Butterfly and The Pig’s most distinctive feature is the menu itself, written in a punctuationfree, utterly unique and off-hand manner; even if you’re not intending to eat it’s well worth a read! By night the bar is one of the main destination points for those on a night out on Bath Street, with live bands at the weekend and easy access to the trendy Buff Club at the opposite end of the building.
Time for Tea
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CRANACHAN
2nd Floor, Princess Square, 48 Buchanan Street, Glasgow G1 3JN T: 0141 248 6257 www.cranachancafe.co.uk Cranachan CranachanGlasgo
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Contemporary Scottish interior design featuring landscapes created by local Artists and walls decorated by Glasgow’s famous Timorous Beasties design studio, gives a sense of place to your dining experience at Cranachan. Its menu serves up a modern twist on classic Scottish breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Cranachan’s home baking includes scones, cakes and Scottish desserts such as clootie dumpling and our namesake ‘Cranachan’ served daily. The extensive range of Scottish Whisky is perfectly compliments it’s hot fayre dishes too.
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Time for Tea
CUP TEA ROOMS
311 Byres Rd, Glasgow G12 8UQ T: 0141 357 2525 www.cupglasgow.co.uk cuptearooms @cupglasgow
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ince first opening in 2010, Cup has offered Glasgow a taste of indulgent luxury across their three unique tea rooms. From delicious Afternoon Teas teeming with home baking, to a wonderful choice of mouthwatering cupcakes and other treats. Their tasty menus are served alongside the city’s widest selection of hand blended loose leaf teas - everything from classic Oolong and Darjeeling, to the more adventurous Chocolate & Chilli, or healthy Apple & Cinnamon blends. The perfect locations for a sophisticated catch up with friends or for a special celebration or event. Other branches: Cup Tea Garden Virginia Court, Merchant City. Cup Tea Lounge, 71 Renfield St, City Centre.
Time for Tea
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HOUSE FOR AN ART LOVER
Bellahouston Park 10 Dumbreck Rd, Glasgow, G41 5BW T: 0141 353 4770 www.houseforanartlover.co.uk House-for-an-Art-Lover @HouseArtLover
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esigned by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, House for an Art Lover provides an excellent cultural attraction and tourist destination, while also being one of the city’s finest wedding and events venues. The House is home to the popular Art Lovers Café, Gallery and Shop, and within the beautiful grounds you will also find the Art Park with Studio Pavilion and Heritage Centre as well as a stunning Walled Garden. The Art Lovers café is open 10am until 4pm every day with Lunch served from 12 noon and Afternoon Tea from 2pm. (Afternoon Tea must be booked 24 hours in advance.)’
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Time for Tea
THE HIDDEN LANE TEAROOM
Unit 8 Argyle Court (The Hidden Lane!) 1103 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8ND T: 0141 237 4391 www.hiddenlanetearoom.com The Hidden Lane Tearoom
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@hiddenlanetea
he Hidden Lane Tearoom is much more than just a tearoom, and although it is hidden away the quality of its offering means it is very much an open secret. Offering afternoon teas and tasty lunches, the cafe even mixes up non-alcoholic tea cocktails for those looking for something a little different. Its selection of cakes changes regularly, with favourites including mojito cupcakes, blueberry pavlovas and scones of all shapes and sizes. The dĂŠcor is vintage and chintzy, with teacups and teapots in a variety of designs. There is also an outdoor seating area that looks out onto the Hidden Lane itself and acts as a surprising sunspot in the summer months.
Time for Tea
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KEMBER & JONES
134 Byres Road, Glasgow G12 8TD T: 0141 337 3851 www.kemberandjones.co.uk kemberandjones @kemberandjones
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ember & Jones Fine Food Emporium is a deli, café, kitchenware and cookbook store. The licensed café, with its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, serves the cafe’s own signature espresso blend coffee and caters for breakfast, lunch and dinners all inspired by the continental products stocked in the shop. The talented team of pastry chefs and bakers both at the café and kitchen work tirelessly to produce an amazing array of home baked cakes, tarts, scones, muffins, loafs, bread, soups and specials. At Kember & Jones, the quality and simplicity of the ingredients is everything.
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Time for Tea
Whisky Ba r
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ir Alexander Fleming once said “A good gulp of hot whisky at bedtime—it’s not very scientific, but it helps.” and while this may very well be true, Scotch is far more than a night-cap drink. Just ask Robert Downey as Ironman, who was partial to the odd Laphroaig, or Supergirl who drank Johnnie Walker Blue, and most recently, David Beckham with his own range of Haig. Whisky is a special drink; Glasgow is a special city, and here we bring you our top picks on where to have a ‘wee dram’. If you find yourself taking in the sights the West End has to offer, then you have to stop in at The Lismore on Dumbarton Road. One of the best venues in the city to enjoy a tipple. There is a wide array of whiskies to chose from, all in a warm, traditional, Scottish setting. The Ben Nevis, in Finnieston, is another traditional Scottish bar that the city is lucky enough to be blessed with. Boasting a stunning interior, and an extensive whisky range to boot, there is a homely feel to the bar, and they even cater for dogs too. At top of Byres Rd you’ll be met with the grandeur of Oran Mor. The Whisky Bar at Oran Mor boasts an impressive stock of over 280 malts. On Hope Street you’ll find The Pot Still, one of the most famous bars in Scotland. No visit to Glasgow is complete without a trip to The Pot Still to sample at least one, of the hundreds, of malts it stocks. After a day of discovering the immense choice of whiskies on offer, you might just want to take heed of Sir Alexander Fleming’s advice.
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THE BEN NEVIS
1147 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8TB T: 0141 576 5204 www.thebennevis.co.uk TheBenNevisBar
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ne of Glasgow’s great, traditional pubs, The Ben Nevis makes the most of its cosy interior by providing a breathtaking selection of malt whiskies and locally brewed real ales, all served up by some of the city’s friendliest staff. The diverse selection of bar regulars, ranging from Glasgow characters to local students, all contribute to The Ben Nevis’ unrivalled atmosphere, where everybody is welcome and live music can break out at any point! Dogs are catered for too, and treats are kept for them behind the bar. A great pub with a heart too.
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Whisky Bar
THE LISMORE
206 Dumbarton Rd Glasgow G11 6UN T: 0141 576 0102 LismoreBar
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here are a number of bars in the Partick area, but The Lismore is the only one you could describe as a true ‘destination’ pub, being one of the city’s best whisky venues. The pub has accomplished the tricky task of accommodating both its older, regular clientele and a younger, student crowd too, making for an eclectic blend of the best of the West End. The Lismore is Scottish and proud of it, taking its name from an island in the Inner Hebrides and with outdoor signage in Gaelic. It doesn’t stop there, though; signs denouncing the worst criminals of the Highland Clearances are displayed in the mens’ urinals, encouraging the users to show these men ‘the respect they deserve’!
Whisky Bar
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ORAN MOR
Top of Byres Road, Glasgow G12 8QX T: 0141 357 6200 www.oran-mor.co.uk @OranMorGlasgow
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ran Mor has firmly established as not just a Glasgow institution, but a Scottish one too. A sign outside the venue reads, ‘More Than Just a Great Bar’, and it couldn’t be more apt. As well as a popular nightclub, restaurant and theatre, the venue also houses The Brasserie Bar, a popular late-night venue for a more mature crowd looking to enjoy one of the bar’s many superb wines by the glass or cocktails. Oran Mor’s heart and soul however, is the main bar, bustling day and night with West End characters swapping stories over a dram or two. Open late seven nights a week, there are few better places for meeting old friends and making new ones.
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Whisky Bar
THE POT STILL
154 Hope Street, Glasgow G2 2TH T: 0141 333 0980 www.thepotstill.co.uk ThePotStillGlasgow @potstillglasgow
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ne of the most famous bars in Scotland, The Pot Still sees visitors from all corners of the globe rubbing shoulders with the Glaswegian locals in search of the perfect dram. With literally hundreds of single malts to choose from customers can rely on the highly knowledgeable and ever-friendly staff to help navigate the selection. Although whisky is undoubtably The Pot Still’s speciality a wide array of cask ales are available, and a simple pub grub menu is also provided. Really, though, the reason people keep returning over the years is the uisge beatha and unique, unrivalled atmosphere. Slainte!
Whisky Bar
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Best of the Rest
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e do hope you have enjoyed our ‘Wee Guide’ to some of the best places to eat and drink in Glasgow. To make it easy we have split it into sections, but there are always some bars or restaurants which stand alone and, for this reason, we conclude with our Best of the Rest guide. Obviously in a ‘Wee Guide,’ there is not the space to have the entire Glasgow offering, and there are many more great places to eat and drink in the city. But we hope that you seek out the places that we have brought to your attention in this ‘Wee Guide’ because you will enjoy not only a warm Glasgow welcome but excellent food and drink too. The bars and restaurants listed in this section are some of the Wee Guide’s team’s favourite places to go out in Glasgow. It’s a diverse selection, encompassing trendy bars, specialist restaurants and neighbourhood pubs, but in each venue, you’ll find a friendly Glasgow welcome and great service. In the City Centre check out Anchorline and The Atlantic on St Vincent Place. These are two of the most stylish venues in the city. Anchorline offers excellent cocktails and an international menu. While The Atlantic has a French feel and menu, and great cocktails too. The Honours at Malmaison is run by acclaimed chef Martin Wishart and offers great food with a relaxed brasserie-style service. While Virginia in Virginia Court not only does amazing afternoon tea’s but also has some say the best rotisserie chicken in the city. If you prefer Asian-style food head to Obu Pan Asian in Princes Square and you’ll not go wrong. Adjacent to Princes Square you will find Sloan’s. Enjoy a drink or a plate of delicious food in the ground floor bar and bistro. Heading West why not pop into Seb & Mili – an artisan bakery and cafe in trendy Finnieston. It offers everything from freshly baked bread to scrumptious cakes. Last but by no means least no visit to the West End of Glasgow is complete without a visit to Irish bar Jinty McGuinty’s in Ashton Lane. Last year it scooped the Sunday Mail Pub of the Year award, a fine accolade for a lively and fun pub.
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ANCHOR LINE
12–16 St Vincent Place, Glasgow G1 2EU T: 0141 248 1434 www.theanchorline.co.uk theanchorline @theanchorlinebg
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nchor Line Celebrates the grand ocean voyages of the 1920s and 30s from Glasgow to New York it is set in the stunning and completely restored grade Anchor Line A1 listed first class booking offices. The Anchor Line showcases the best of Scottish produce with influences from both sides of the Atlantic. Think fresh oysters, lobster and scallops, the finest scotch beef, ribs and burgers to die for. There is an extensive cocktail list with classics lying alongside some of its own signature twists, and a drinks list with a strong whisky, bourbon and gin influence. It offers New York and Glasgow craft beers, and a wine list incorporating some of the finest that America and the rest of the world have to offer. It is open for lunch and dinner, and with fantastic private dining facilities, it combines a casual and welcoming dining environment with first class service and produce.
Best of the Rest
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ATLANTIC
Lower Ground 12-16 St Vincent Place, Glasgow G1 2EU T: 0141 221 0220 www.atlanticbrasserie.co.uk atlanticbrasserie @AtlanticGlasgow
L
ocated on the Lower Ground Floor at 12-16 St Vincent Place, The Atlantic is a cool and contemporary brasserie restaurant. It showcase’s the best of French food but also has a full rotisserie and Robata grill in the open kitchen. The menu is a heady mix of contemporary and classic French dishes, from steak tartare and Pâte de Foie Volaille to classic French onion soup and moules frites. Its rotisserie serves chicken cooked Provencal style while from the Robata grill you get perfectly cooked Scottish steaks. The bar at Atlantic is the perfect place for that pre-dinner drink or as a venue for meeting friends and family for a get-together celebration. The cocktail list has a strong French influence but also includes all your favourites, old and new. Atlantic Bar and Brasserie has something for all tastes all served with a soupson of French panache. 75
Best of the Rest
THE HONOURS
278 W George St, Glasgow G2 4LL T: 0141 572 1001 www.malmaison.com /locations/glasgow/the-honours The-Honours-at-Malmaison-Glasgow @HonoursGlasgow
A
t the heart of Malmaison Glasgow, a former Greek Orthodox Church, lies Martin Wishart’s restaurant The Honours. Down in the moodily lit, vaulted basement, you can enjoy a sumptuous dinner of British and French-influenced dishes with a subtle Scottish twist at Martin Wishart’s acclaimed restaurant. With its glittering domed ceilings and relaxed ‘brasserie-style’ service, The Honours is truly a step up from the usual restaurant fayre. The critically-acclaimed menu and luxurious but relaxed atmosphere have caused a real stir in the city. Featuring a mix of traditional and modern French cuisine, The Honours is available for lunch, dinner and private dining.
Best of the Rest
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JINTY MCGUINTY’S
29 Ashton Ln Glasgow G12 8SJ T: 0141 339 0747 JintyMcguintysIrishBar @jintyMcGuintys
J
inty’s as it is affectionately known is a Glasgow institution despite being an Irish pub! In fact it won Sunday Mail Pub of the Year in 2015, putting it right up with there with the best that Scotland has to offer. It’s got character and of course good craic. But this obviously means that it is notorious for being really busy. You’ll find its drinkers spilling out into its versatile beer garden but if you can nab a space inside you can expect live music, most nights of the week, and obviously its the place to be on St Patrick’s Day.
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Best of the Rest
OBU PAN ASIAN
O
2nd Floor Princes Square 48 Buchanan Street Glasgow G1 3JX T: 0141 221 7044 www.obupanasian.co.uk obupanasian @obupanasian
bu’s Asian fusion menu offers the best in Thai, Japanese and Chinese inspired cuisines to provide a true taste of the orient. With a wide selection of dishes including sushi, dim sum, curries, noodle and wok dishes there is something to suit all Eastern Asian palettes at Obu. Its drinks menu is also influenced by the East with tantalising fruit cocktails, sakes, Japanese beers and wines, all specially selected to compliment the flavour and spice of its food.
Best of the Rest
78
SLOANS
62 Argyll Arcade 108 Argyle Street, Glasgow G2 8BG T: 0141 221 8886 www.sloansglasgow.com sloans1797 @sloansglasgow
S
ituated in the heart of the city centre, Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant, Sloans is one of the city’s most stunning and impressive venues set over three decadent floors. Enjoy a drink, bite to eat or a great night out at its famous Friday night Ceilidh in its decadent Grand Ballroom. Enjoy a drink in the bar or a BBQ in the outside courtyard (when it’s dry!) or a plate of delicious food in the ground floor bar and bistro or have a wander up the stairs to soak up the surroundings.
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Best of the Rest
SEB AND MILI
1122 Argyle Street Glasgow, United Kingdom T: 0141 564 1182 www.sebandmili.com Seb & Mili’s Finnieston @SebAndMili
A
rtisan bakery and cafe Seb and Mili, is the ideal place to stop in for breakfast and lunch in Finnieston. With freshly baked bread, pastries, cakes and biscuits, the cafe has a tantalising aroma, and produce to match. Open every day, from 8am to 6pm, Seb and Mili’s offer not only a sit-in experience, with a mezzanine area, but also take-away and pre-orders. A warm, friendly, welcome is guaranteed at Seb and Mili’s, bettered only by the food on offer. Homemade soups, an array of delicious cakes, a mouthwatering bread selection, catering for all dietary requirements, homemade jams, chutneys and more, as well as some of the finest coffee in Glasgow.
Best of the Rest
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VIRGINIA
Unit 4, Virginia Court Glasgow G1 1TN T: 0141 553 2326 www.virginiabar.co.uk virginiabarglasgow @virginiaglasgow
F
reshly prepared no-nonsense food is at the heart of what is on offer at Virginia paired with a wonderful choice of creative and delicious cocktails, and of course a vast selection of gin from across the globe. Whether you’re stopping by for dinner from its mouthwatering food menu - including its infamous free range rotisserie chicken or just stopping by for some drinks in the gorgeous outdoor courtyard, this hidden gem in the heart of the Merchant City is the perfect spot to indulge your senses. It also has its own private events space - perfect for hosting your next party!
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Best of the Rest
Bier Halle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The Clockwork Beer Co. . . . . . . . . 7 Drygate Brewing Co. . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The raven. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Blue dog. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Boudoir. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Distill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Gin71 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Hard Rock Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Moskito. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Strata. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Brian Maule at Chardon d’Or . . 21 The Gannet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Two Fat Ladies at The Buttery. 23 Gamba. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Morblas seafood and grill. . . . . 26 Rogano. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Two Fat Ladies in the West End 28 Two Fat Ladies in the City. . . . . . 29 The Drake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 The Shandon Belles. . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Stravaigin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Uniquitous Chip. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Alston Bar & Beef . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Butchershop Bar & Grill. . . . . . . . 38 Grill Room at The Square. . . . . . 39 Meat Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 NY American Grill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Cafe Andaluz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 La Lanterna. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Index
Panevino. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Caffe Parma. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 The Admiral. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Bloc+ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Bunker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Cathouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 The Garage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Kokomo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Maggie May . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Hutchensons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Cafe Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 The Piper’s Tryst. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 The Butterfly & The Pig. . . . . . . . 62 Cranachan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Cup Tea Rooms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 House for an Art Lover. . . . . . . . . 65 The Hidden Lane Tearoom. . . . 66 Kember & Jones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 The Ben Nevis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 The Lismore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Oran Mor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 The Pot Still. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Anchor Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Atlantic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 The Honours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Jinty’s Mcguinty’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Obu Pan Asian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Sloans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Seb and Mili. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Virginia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
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TASTING TOURS AT OUR BREWERY N OT E : EVERY SATURDAY ATES 11AM FROM MAY TO SEPTEMBER DOUBL E C HEC K A LL HI -R
We are a family-run microbrewery based in the picturesque Cromarty Firth, producing innovative, handcrafted, small-batch beers.
TA S T ING T OURS AT O UR BREW ERY
DORNOCH A9
CROMARTY BREWING CO. A835
CONON BRIDGE
NAIRN A96 INVERNESS
A82 A9
FORRES
We believe that our passion, EVERY SATURDAY AT 11AM FROM MAY TO SEPTEMBE enthusiasm and quality beer brewing skills, blended with We are a family-run microbrewery based in the picturesque the ďŹ nest locallyinnovative, and globally Cromarty Firth, producing handcrafted, smallbatch beers. ingredients, make sourced We believe that our beer that is passion, truly enthusiasm worth and quality beer brewing skills, blended with the finest locally and globally believing in. sourced ingredients, make beer that is truly worth believing i Join us every Saturday morning at 11am for a tasting tour,
Join us every Saturday and learn more about the craft of brewing. We also offer a wide selectionat of beers andfor giftsa in our shop, please visit morning 11am tasting www.cromartybrewing.co.uk for our opening hours. tour, and learn more about the craft of brewing. We also offer THE CROMARTY BREWING COMPANY a wide selection of beers DAVIDSTON, CROMARTY, IV11 and 8XD T: 01381 600440 gifts in our shop, please visit E: enquiries@cromartybrewing.co.uk www.cromartybrewing.co.uk www.cromartybrewing.co.uk for facebook.com/cromartybrewing our opening hours. @cromartybrew
THE CROMARTY BREWING COMPANY DAVIDSTON, CROMARTY, IV11 8XD T: 01381 600440 E: enquiries@cromartybrewing.co.uk www.cromartybrewing.co.uk 83 facebook.com/cromartybrewing @cromartybrewing
INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND INDEPENDENTLY MINDED.
AWARD WINNING SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY FROM THE ISLE OF ARRAN. 84
www.arranwhisky.com