Wee Guide to Glasgow

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GLASGOW guide to...

VISIT THE AWARD WINNING VISITOR CENTRE AT THE ISLE OF ARRAN DISTILLERY DISTILLERY TOURS • SHOP • CASKS CAFÉ BAR

OPEN DAILY: MAR – OCT 10.00 – 17.30 NOV – FEB 10.00 – 16.00 FOR TOUR TIMES AND INFORMATION PLEASE CHECK OUR WEB SITE THE ISLE OF ARRAN DISTILLERY AND VISITOR CENTRE, LOCHRANZA, KA27 8HJ TEL: 01770 830 264 EMAIL: VISITORCENTRE@ARRANWHISKY.COM

www.arranwhisky.com 2

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elcome to the 3rd edition of our Wee Guide to Glasgow.

The aim of this publication is to give you a flavour of what’s on offer when it comes to going out in the city. Whether you fancy afternoon tea, or a chilled pint of beer, a late night out, or one of Glasgow’s famous curry’s, this wee guide has it all.

This Wee Guide features lots of places to try. It’s not the definitive guide – but it is our ‘Wee Guide’ and hopefully it will help you to navigate your way around Glasgow’s eating and drinking scene.

It’s not only the food and drink that is great in Glasgow the city is also renowned for its friendliness as well as its hospitality.

I hope you find this ‘Wee Guide’ useful. If you would like to view it online you can at dramscotland.co.uk/publications Susan Young Publisher

Contents

Afternoon Tea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Cheers to Beers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Cocktail Bars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Fine Dining. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Seafood feast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Casual dining. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Some Hae Meat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Italian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 All Night Long. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Scottish. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Indian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Whisky Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 The Hidden Lane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Best of the Rest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 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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Cover: Editorial credit: Vicki_Smith / Shutterstock.com

Time for tea T

here is nothing better than enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea and Glasgow has some excellent places to try. Did you know that afternoon tea was introduced to Britain as far back as the 1840’s... and 20 years later it had evolved into a fashionable social event. In fact ladies often changed into long gowns, gloves and hats for their afternoon tea which was usually served in the drawing room between four and five o’clock.

Today you don’t have to don any finery, but the afternoon teas offered by The Butterfly and Pig, on Bath Street, and in Glasgow’s Southside offer a whimiscal twist on the original idea in a quirky setting and with the cakes cooked onsite. Of course you can also upgrade to a wee glass of bubby.

Singl-end, which is a bakehouse and cafe, on Renfrew Street, is renowned for its fantastic cakes, so much so it has opened a second Singl-end in the Merchant City. The Hidden Lane Cafe, which features in our Hidden Lane section is also marvellous when it comes to Afternoon tea...

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THE BOTANIC GARDENS TEAROOMS

730 Great Wesern Road, Glasgow G12 0UE T: 0141 276 1614 www.glasgowbotanicgardens.com/the-gardens/tearooms/ GlasgowBotanicGardens

/GlasgowBotanic

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he Botanic Gardens is one of the West End’s most popular attractions and argualbe is the finest Garden in the city. It was founded in 1817,

by Thomas Hopkirk of Dalbeth, who gave his own plant collection to form the nucleus of the new garden and it receives around 400,000 visitors a year. It’s Tearooms are open from April to September from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm and in winter from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm.

The Tearooms can be found in the former Curator’s house near to the Kibble Palace. In addition to the comfortable indoor seating area, visitors can take advantage of the summer weather and enjoy the surrounding plants in the outdoor refreshment area in front of the house.

There are three afternoon teas on offer The Kibble, The Botanic and The Kelvin at different price ranges. So there is something affordable for every pocket.

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Afternoon Tea

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 punctuation-free, 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.

Afternoon Tea

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THE BUTTERFLY AND THE PIG SOUTH 1039 Pollokshaws Road, G41 3YF T: 0141 632 6230 www.thebutterflyandthepig.com

thebutterflyandthepig/

@ButterflyAndPig

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stalwart of Glasgow’s food and drink scene for over a decade. Having recently opened another south of the river, this bar and restaurant’s unique approach to food, drink and hospitality has cemented the brand’s reputation, while also pathing the way for their expansion and spin-off ventures (The Tea Rooms and Singl-end Café & Bakehouse). Every weekend sees the bar heave with Glaswegians rubbing shoulders and shaking hips with tourists alike. The pig is as authentic an example of Glasgow hospitality and culture as you will find anywhere. The kitchen serves hearty home-cooked dishes while the bar takes care of a healthy selection of wines, spirits, real ales and whiskey. The entertainment ranges from mid-week pub quiz to live rock n roll, soul, country and blues covers at the weekends entertaining the crowds into the very wee hours or until it’s time to move through the building into the on-site nightclub (The Buff Club) taking the night further into the even wee’er hours.

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Afternoon Tea

THE SINGL-END CAFE & BAKEHOUSE

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265 Renfrew St. Garnethill G3 6TT / 15 John St. Merchant City G1 1HP T: 0141 353 1277 / 0141 553 4433 /singlendcafe www.thesingl-end.co.uk

perational since 2015 the reputation has grown organically into being known simply for serving “Home-baked realness to the people of Glasgow”. Their strategy relies on not much more than word-of-mouth recommendations of their hospitality alongside accomplished cooking and baking, without pretence or gimmicks but simply a real passion and belief that food can be both nourishing and enjoyable at the same time. The venue sits below street level in a former print shop in Garnethill, delicately balancing the warmth that a cafe requires while keeping the industrial soul of the building intact, making for a unique and unmissable experience. A quick browse through their simple menu and you begin to understand why this venue, a little off the beaten track, has been the go-to venue for Glasgow foodies and brunch aficionados for years now. The chefs and on-site bakers produce almost everything in-house, taking the humble cooked breakfast or eggs Benedict and re-imagining them as dishes you shouldn’t feel guilty for ordering.

Afternoon Tea

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Cheers to Beers G

lasgow is definitely the city of beer. From our home-brewed Tennent’s to the plethora of international beers, if a beer exists you’ll be able to find it in one of our glorious pubs. The Bier Halle is a case in point, being the first bar in Glasgow to stock an extensive list of beers from around the world and continues to be popular with over 100 beers in stock.

If you’re heading to the trendy Merchant City, it’s worth popping into Beer Cafe, where you can watch the bustle of the crowds while supping one of over 90 beers.

If you head southside, a stone’s throw from Hampden is the Clockwork Beer Co. One of Glasgow’s oldest microbreweries, it has a fantastic beer garden and a great range of cask ales. A newcomer to Glasgow’s beer scene, is The Shilling Brewing Company. A micro-brewery in the city centre, it’s the only bar in Scotland to offer up to 31 draught beers each day. Its own small-batches of beer are brewed behind the bar, and dispensed straight to your glass. You can’t get fresher than that!

BEER CAFE

78 Candleriggs, Glasgow G1 1NP T: 0141 552 9815 www.beercafe.co.uk @beercafeglasgow

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he Beer Cafe is based in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City. Set within Merchant Square, the bar stocks a wide range of beers from all around the world. Featuring large windows looking on to Candleriggs as well as tables in Merchant Square’s indoor courtyard, the bar is a great spot for supping quietly on a quality beer while immersing yourself in one of Glasgow’s most popular and busiest areas. With a wide selection of over 90 beers on offer and with a quirky pie list, you can enjoy a pie and a pint in the heart of the city.

to Beers Cheers To

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Cheer

rs To Beers

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.

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Cheers to Beers

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.

Cheers to Beers

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SHILLING BREWING CO

92 West George Street Glasgow, G2 1PJ T: 0141 353 1654 www.shillingbrewingcompany.co.uk /Shillingbrewingco @Shillingbrewco

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s the city centre’s only brewpub, Shilling Brewing Company offer the freshest pint in Glasgow. Their beer is brewed behind the bar and dispensed from the tanks above straight to your glass.Shilling is also the only true small-batch micro-brewery in the city centre. Brewing in such small batches means they can react quickly to feedback and tweak their recipes accordingly. Shilling also offer the most extensive draught beer range on any bar in Scotland. With up to 31 draught lines on any given day, they offer a diverse range of beers from the best breweries around to complement their own small batch brews.

Cheers to Beers

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Cocktail Extravaganza L

ots of bars serve good cocktails and Glasgow has its fair share.

The main point of difference when it comes to spotting a good cocktail bar is the creativity of the bar tender when it comes to mixing up a tasty drink. It is certainly true that behind every great cocktail is a talented mixologist. For them, a cocktail is more than just a drink, it’s a work of art.

The bars that feature in this Wee Guide are modern, stylish and most importantly, welcoming and they all serve first-class cocktails.

Anchor Line located in St Vincent Crescent is one of the most stylish bars in the city – it has been so named due to its sailing links to New York, as it is located in P&O’s old ticket office. But you certainly won’t want to be sailing away anywhere soon when you taste their cocktails. It’s sister bar and restaurant, The Atlantic which is a couple of doors along also serves up some great drinks – it is featured in the Casual Dining Section. Meanwhile Blue Dog on West Regent Street is award winning. It is the only bar in the city to win the title Cocktail Bar of the year for two years running. .

THE ANCHOR LINE

12–16 St Vincent Place, Glasgow G1 2EU T: 0141 248 1434 www.theanchorline.co.uk theanchorline @theanchorlinebg

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he Anchor 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.

Cocktail Bars

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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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espite being founded in 2003, this late night piano bar still maintains its mantle as THE place to go for cocktails. It’s relaxed and yet sophisticated & the well trained staff will cater to your every cocktail whim. There’s a vast and varied entertainment program & the diverse nature of the clientele means that no two nights are ever the same at the Blue Dog. The bar is unique and offers one of the most unique drinking experiences that Glasgow has to offer. We’re open daily until 3am with live entertainment until 2am.

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Cocktail Bars

CHELSEA MARKET

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1146 Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8TF T: 0141 339 6909 http://chelsea-market.co.uk /ChelseaMarketFinnieston/ /chelseamarketg3

lasgow’s popular Finnieston area is teaming with quality eateries and recent, stylish addition Chelsea Market is more than holding its own. The interior is both classy and cosy with plenty of comfortable booths to sink into as you soak up the relaxed atmosphere and sample Chelsea Market’s delicious and beautifully presented dishes. The menu has Scottish influence with hand dived Isle of Mull Scallops; red deer, wood pigeon and braised lamb shoulder on offer, as well as popular dishes like burgers, steaks and the CM Fish ‘n’ Chips, and you’ll want to save room for desserts including roast pineapple pavlova and a crème caramel with smoked raisins.

Cocktail Bars

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F ine dining I

n many cities, fine dining can often mean a stuffy, formal atmosphere, however in Glasgow, you can easily get fine dining in a relaxed yet smart environment. It would be hard to find a more relaxed atmosphere than House For An Art Lover in Bellahouston Park. One of the city’s favourite tourist attractions, its cafe offers the best in Scottish produce but in a setting to beat most. Rogano is a Glasgow institution that has impressed many, and as the oldest surviving Glasgow restaurant it hasn’t lost its sparkle. Its fabulous Art Deco style belies its delicious seafood, which can be washed down with classic cocktails and Champagne. Two Fat Ladies have also become stalwarts on the Glasgow restaurant scene, with three venues – one in the West End, one in the city and one at The Buttery. The restaurant has made its name with a mouthwatering selection of seafood and Scottish dishes, and never disappoints.

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.)’

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

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!

F ine Dining

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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!

F ine Dining

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F ine Dining

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.

F ine Dining

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Seafood feast P

eople come from all over the world to sample the seafood that Scotland has to offer and our chefs certainly know how to showcase our fabulous larder. You can certainly enjoy a culinary feast at Gamba – Chef Derek Marshall is one of the best chefs in the country, and he certainly has a way with seafood. His restaurant is a past winner of UK Seafood Restaurant of the Year and is also a Two Star rosette seafood restaurant. Two Fat Ladies in the City is a modern restaurant with a city centre buzz and a great reputation for offering fresh Scottish seafood and produce all prepared with respect and skill by its chefs. The Merchant City plays host to the City Merchant a well established restaurant with an equally established reputation for not only seafood but its steaks too. The Fish People Cafe is a vibrant and is a seafood restaurant located on Glasgow’s Southside right on Scotland Street right beside the underground. It’s menu showcases the freshest fish and shellfish Scotland has to offer.

GAMBA

225a West George Street, Glasgow G2 2ND T: 0141 572 0899 www.gamba.co.uk gambaglasgow @Gamba_Glasgow

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elighting seafood lovers for almost two decades, multi-award winning Glasgow institution Gamba has been at the forefront of the city’s dining scene since 1998. Boasting two AA Rosettes, stylish surroundings and an enviable city centre location; Gamba provides an elegant escape from the urban bustle. What’s more, chef-patron Derek Marshall is fully committed to sustainability, so a meal at Gamba is the perfect spot to drop anchor and enjoy the fruits of the sea completely guilt-free. Using only the freshest, sustainable fish and seafood, chef Derek combines classic techniques with a modern twist to create picture-perfect plates with inspired flavour combinations – delivering the honest, consistent and memorable dishes synonymous with Gamba.

Seafood feast

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CITY MERCHANT

97/99 Candleriggs, Glasgow G1 1NP T: 0141 553 1577 www.citymerchant.co.uk CityMerchant @citymerchant

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he City Merchant is one of Glasgow’s leading seafood restaurants.

Since 1988 it has been serving customers from all over the world who come to taste its cuisine and enjoy the warm hospitality on offer. Fish, lobsters, oysters and mussels are its speciality, with the seafood platter in particular proving an extremely popular dish. It’s an atmospheric restaurant, pleasantly decked out with rustic wooden fittings and a subtle Celtic motif. The main section of the City Merchant is ideal for couples and small groups, and private rooms are available for a more intimate dining experience.

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Seafood feast

THE FISH PEOPLE CAFÉ

Shields road subway station, 350 Scotland Street, Glasgow, G5 8QF T: 0141 429 8787 www.thefishpeoplecafe.co.uk @Fishpeople_cafe

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hen it comes to seafood, The Fish People Café is arguably one of Glasgow’s best kept secrets. Tucked away in the south side beside Shields Road Subway Station, this classy little restaurant serves a mouthwatering, flavoursome menu with fresh Scottish seafood at its heart, served alongside an impressive wine and spirits list. Beautifully presented fish shop favourites like haddock and chips star alongside melt in the mouth seared Barra scallops, spicy whole Tandoori baked Anglesey sea bass, fresh Cumbrae rock oysters and crisp monkish scampi. Throw in a warm and welcoming service and this really is a true hidden gem for seafood lovers.

Seafood feast

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Casual does it C

asual dining crossed the Atlantic a few years ago and now it is certainly growing its reputation here. Glasgow has lots to offer those that who prefer a more casual dining experience. The Atlantic on St Vincent’s place may be in a basement, but it is light and airy, and stylish too. It’s maybe best known for its Rotisserie chicken, but all the food is good. Bucks Bar is also famous for it’s chicken – it has a Rock n’ Roll feel and once you have tasted their buttermilk fried chicken you’ll know why.

St Luke’s in Glasgow’s Calton area, opened a couple of years ago and is already a firm favourite with Glaswegians whether you fancy a snack or a Flatirion steak you’ll find plenty on the menu. The Flying Duck is a must for all Vegan’s – the basement style bar offers casual dining with with vegans firmly in mind. While at Rioja in Finnieston there is Spanish food on the menu and very tasty it is too. Mind you if you prefer Greek then Halloumi fits the bill. It may be named after the country’s famous cheese but there is plenty on the menu to showcase its Greek credentials. If you’re heading towards the west of the city, it’s worth seeking out The Shandon Belles, which is located in the lesser known part of Argyle Street near Anderston. The baby sister in the Two Fat Ladies group, it focuses less on fish and more on hearty fare from all over the world.

ATLANTIC

Lower Ground 12-16 St Vincent Place, Glasgow G1 2EU T: 0141 221 0220 www.atlanticbrasserie.co.uk atlanticbrasserie @AtlanticGlasgow

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ocated on the Lower Ground Floor at 12-16 St Vincent Place, Atlantic Bar and Brasserie 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.

Casual dining

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BUCKS BAR

11 West Regent Street, Glasgow, G2 2RU T: 0141 221 2327 www.bucksbar.co.uk /bucksbarglasgow

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pening in November 2016 Bucks has fast become one of Glasgow’s favourite independent Bars. Bucks is a cool basement Rock n Roll Chicken Bar specialising in tasty Authentic Buttermilk Fried Chicken, seriously addictive Nashville Hot Chicken, a great selection Cocktails and Hard Shake, Beers and Bourbon. If you like the Heat, Bucks Bar has it own ‘HOT RACK’ with a large selection of various levels of Hot Sauces to spice up your Chicken. Bucks has a great offers running 7 days a week.

Monday 6pm Office Quiz. Tuesday £6 Burger Day. Wing Wednesday.

Open Mic Thursdays. Live Bands Every Friday & Saturday Night and infamous Sunday Waffle Brunch. There is also 40% Off all cocktails MonWednesday.

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Casual dining

HALLOUMI

161 Hope St, Glasgow G2 2UQ T: 0141 204 1616 www.halloumiglasgow.co.uk/ /HalloumiGalsgow @halloumiglasgow

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sun-drenched taste of the Meditteranean on Hope Street. Serving modern Greek Cypriot cuisine cooked from scratch using homegrown, locally sourced ingredients and beautiful cocktails and wines, Halloumi is open from 12 noon every day until late. Located two minutes from central station, Halloumi is the perfect location to catch up with friends, long lunches or romantic dinners and drinks. Expect small plates and BIG flavours, so grab your friends, switch off your phones and take a seat at our table.

Casual dining

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RIOJA

1116 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8TD T: 0141 334 0761 www.http://riojafinnieston.co.uk/contact /riojafinnieston/ @riojafinnieston

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ioja is the most authentic Spanish tapas restaurant with a busy late-night cocktail bar in the heart of Finnieston. With the very best of Scottish and Spanish ingredients on the menu, from Galician beef, Iberian pork to freshly caught Scottish seafood, Rioja dishes are always market fresh, full of intoxicating flavours and created using innovative cooking methods. Whether you want a romantic evening or to soak up a vibrant energetic atmosphere of the west end, join us in our restaurant and bar to enjoy modern Spanish dishes inspired by Basque Country and catch-ups with friends that turn to night outs.

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Casual dining

SAINT LUKE’S AND THE WINGED OX 17 Bain Street, Calton G40 2JZ T: 0141 552 8378 www.slukesglasgow.com /StLukesGlasgow /stlukesglasgow

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ocated around the corner from The Barrowland Ballroom, Saint Luke’s – Scottish pub of the year 2017 – is a music and arts venue with an attached bar and restaurant the Winged Ox. There’s never a dull day, with live music, pub quizzes, and open mic sessions livening the mood.

It boasts 13 taps, with an eclectic mix of rotational craft beers and an ever evolving range of cocktails, wines and bottled beers. The kitchen serves up “Food for the Soul” from 12-9 weekdays, and 11-10pm on weekends offering up a mix of hearty favourites. This year it cements it’s status as “Dog Friendly Bar of the Year” with a menu specially created for our furry friends! Having played host to artists from Twin Atlantic, to Ghostface Killah, you never know who you might get chatting to at the bar!

Casual dining

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THE FLYING DUCK

142 Renfield St, Glasgow, G2 3AU T: 0141 564 1450 flyingduckpart flyingduckparty

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could be in Shanghai, New York, London or anywhere else for that fact with the atmosphere being truly unique, inviting and free.” The Flying Duck is a basement bar, venue and vegan diner tucked away close to Buchanan bus station & Queen St subway in Glasgow city center.

Established in 2007 it’s been an integral part of Glasgow’s underground music and drinking scenes for over 10 years. The Flying Duck’s wide range of beer and spirits are the perfect accompaniment to the The Duck’s famous huge food portions, serving up vegan versions on American diner classics such as it’s Philly Cheese Steak and PB&J loaded fries. At night The Flying Duck regularly plays host to live music and clubs in it’s intimate venue, coupled with a chilled out main bar it’s the perfect venue for however you want your evening to unfold.

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Casual dining

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.

Casual dining

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CAFE ANDALUZ

2 Cresswell Lane, Glasgow G12 8AA T: 0141 339 1111 www.cafeandaluz.com cafeandaluzglasgowcitycentre @CafeAndaluzGlas

T

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.

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Casual dining

Some hae meat W

hether you’re into steak, burgers or a mixed grill, you can be sure to find your meat desire in one of Glasgow’s restaurants. Scotland is famed for its beef, and the Butchershop Bar and Grill is one place to try it. With fabulous views of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, take your pick from t-bones to tomahawk steaks. If you head into the city centre, enjoy the best 28 day aged steaks at Grill at 29, before going to Hutcheson’s. Situated in one of the city’s most impressive buildings on Ingram Street, the restaurant is split across three floors in different styles; 158 Club Lounge, a speakeasy; City Grill, a more formal restaurant and the Glenfarclas Private Dining Room. Staying in the Merchant City, head along to The Spanish Butcher, a new darling in Glasgow’s restaurant scene. Serving Galician beef, Iberican jamon and fresh seafood, it’s well worth a visit.

When it comes to meat though, you need to visit the Meat Bar, which specialises in home-smoked meats, American BBQ and Scotch beef.

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THE BUTCHERSHOP BAR & GRILL

1055 Sauchiehall Street, G3 7UD T: +44 (0) 141 339 2999 www.ButchershopGlasgow.com @ButchershopGlasgow @butchershopgla

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ne of the most talked about steakhouses in Scoltand, The Butchershop Bar & Grill serves the very best dry-aged, 100% grass fed Scotch beef; whiskies; wines and signature cocktails. steakhouse has a second to none selection of cuts both on the bone and off the bone including their signature 35-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 fabulous views of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and with the SSE Hydro on its doorstep, it is the ultimate dining experience in Glasgow.

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Some Hae Meat

GRILL ROOM AT THE SQUARE

29 Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow G1 3AJ T: 0141 225 5615 www.29glasgow.co.uk 29Glasgow @29Glasgow

T

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.

Some Hae Meat

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HUTCHESONS

158 Ingram Street, G1 1EJ T: +44 (0) 141 552 4050 www.HutchensonsGlasgow.com @hutchesons @hutchesonsgla

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et within one of Scotland’s most impressive buildings and located in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City, Hutchesons is a venue like no other. Spread across three floors, it consists of the 158 Club Lounge; a stylish, boutique speakeasy specialising in champagne and cocktails. Upstairs you’ll find the City Grill, a bustling first floor restaurant that showcases the very best Scottish produce, with a focus on choice scotch beef. Topping it all off is the Glenfarclas private dining room; guests have their own dedicated server, private bathroom and will enjoy a unique experience fit for any occasion.

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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

T

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 dryaged 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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THE SPANISH BUTCHER

80 Miller Street, Glasgow, G1 1DT T: +44 (0)141 406 9880 www.SpanishButcher.com @SpanishButcher @spanishbutcher

T

he Spanish Butcher is the latest concept from Rusk & Rusk, the restaurant, design & lifestyle group that brought you multi-award winning venues The Butchershop Bar & Grill, Hutchesons City Grill and the 158 Club Lounge. Located at 80 Miller Street, in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchany City, The Spanish Butcher serves the finest grades of Galician beef, the most premium Iberican jamon and the freshest of seafood, combining Spanish and Mediterranean inspired flavours. Set within chic, modern New York loft style interiors, The Spanish Butcher delivers quintessential style along with the most vibrant cuisine.

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Some Hae Meat

Italian I

t is said that the very first people from Italy to reach Scotland were the Romans in and around 40AD, and they definitely left their mark with the building of Hadrian’s Wall and the Antonine Wall. But it is modern day ScotsItalians who have made their mark on our cuisine. Glasgow boasts some super restaurants offering great Italian food from casual dining to fine dining. In this Wee Guide we feature – four – Gusto – a which offers a modern take on Italian dining, La Rotunda which is the perfect spot before a concert at the Hydro, Soho which is a great casual dining spot which does great pizza’s and cocktails too, and last but not least Caffe Parma in Glasgow’s West End a light and airy restaurant which also offers small dishes called Cicchetti.

EUSEBI DELI

E

152 Park Rd, Glasgow G4 9HB T: 0141 648 9999 www.eusebideli.com

usebi Deli is a multi award-winning, family-run restaurant and deli located in Glasgow’s West End. Eusebi’s specialises in authentic Italian dining with a menu that changes seasonally and is inspired by its owner’s Italian heritage and a passion to showcase the diversity of Italian cuisine.

The restaurant is open daily from 8am until late, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner plus a popular Brunch at the weekends. At the heart of the Eusebi kitchen is the Italian tradition of slowing things down and cooking from scratch, like its fresh pasta made daily. The deli counter is packed with freshly baked Italian cakes and pastries, Sicilian street food bites, Umbrian hams and salamis and fine wines, making Eusebi’s a dream destination for any true food lover. Eusebi’s also has private dining facilities and menu’s available for parties from 20-55 people whether this is a special occasion or corporate. Please get in touch to find out more.

Italian restaurants 45

Italian

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.

Italian

46

GUSTO

16 Bothwell St, Glasgow G2 6NU T: 0141 227 6270 www.gustorestaurants.uk.com Gusto Restaurant & Bar Glasgow @gusto_uk

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nspired by the traditional Grand cafes of Europe, Gusto is all about making the everyday exquisite. See we believe being grand doesn’t have to be a big deal. Our classic and contemporary Italian menus take fresh, carefully selected, simple ingredients to create the best tasting food around. While the menu features all the traditional classics, there’s also abundance of contemporary dishes with a superb choice of wine and cocktails. And our timeless, classic surroundings make any occasion – whether it’s a dinner for two, sampling our signature deli board with friends or bringing the kids to create their own pizza – feel special.

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Italian

LA ROTUNDA

28 Tunnel St, Glasgow G3 8HL T: 0141 847 0880 www. glasgowrotunda.com /rotundaglasgow

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a Rotunda Casa Italiana takes pleasure in serving authentic Italian food and impeccable service. Freshly prepared pastas, stone baked pizzas, and perfectly cooked meat delivered through the open plan kitchen while you enjoy the warm friendly atmosphere of the restaurant.

Only the finest wines to accompany the menu have been selected so you can be sure to indulge in a bottle or two to enhance your overall Italian dining experience. Located on the bottom floor of the historic Rotunda overlooking the River Clyde and a stone’s throw away from SEC and SSE Hydro, La Rotunda is a favourite for all age groups for preconcert and post-conference dinners.

Italian

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SOHO PIZZERIA & COCKTAIL BAR 54-58 Miller Street Glasgow, G1 1DT T: 0141 221 1568 www.sohoglasgow.com /soho.millerstreet/

I

ndependently owned Restaurant & Bar SoHo on Miller Street has been open for 10 years now and was the original restaurant which started the trend on the very popular dining destination of Miller Street. Serving Rustic Italian Home Cooked Food, specialising in Thin Crust Stone Baked Pizzas, a great selection Fantastic Cocktails and Beers. SoHo has live acoustic music every Friday and Saturday evening and perfect for a fun, relaxed day or night out in the city centre.

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Italian

All night long

I

f you are of a certain age no doubt you are in Glasgow for its nightlife.

And certainly Glasgow has some great late night venues for people to enjoy. They cater for all music tastes whether you like rock, pop, dance or disco, you will find something to keep you entertained. The clubs listed in the ‘Wee Guide’ are well established and famous not just in Glasgow but throughout the UK. Of course late night entertainment has evolved over the years and you will many late night bars in Glasgow too. The Cathouse, in Union Street, is a long-established nightclub. It is probably best known for rock music but it now plays all genre’s. Back in the day it played host to Oasis when the band was fresh. It’s sister club The Garage in Sauchiehall Street is arguably the best known mainstream venue in the country and also the largest. Meanwhile Slouch is a great basement late night bar which features lots of live music and its sister Howlin’ Wolf is also a cracking late night bar but with more of a Blues, soul and rock’n’roll feel.

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CATHOUSE

15 Union St, Glasgow G1 3RB T: 0141 248 6606 www.cathouse.co.uk Cathouserocks @CathouseGlasgow

E

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.

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All Night Long

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, Desperados Bar and The Shooter 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.

All Night Long

52

THE HOWLIN’ WOLF

100 Bath Street, Glasgow G2 2EN T: 0141 332 3224 www.thehowlinwolf.co.uk HowlinWolfGlasgow @HowlinWolfGLAS

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he Howlin’ Wolf is a bar, kitchen and music venue for lovers of blues, soul, homemade food, rock n’ roll, cocktails and tall tales. The bar take its name from legendary 1950s and ‘60s Blues singer Chester Arthur Burnett, better known as Howlin’ Wolf, and the venue is very much inspired by the blues. With a huge range of burgers and pizzas to choose from it’s a great place for a relaxing bite to eat, and food is served until 2am, a massive plus for any late-night venue.The bar has a good selection of beers, and well as a huge range of world and homegrown spirits.

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All Night Long

SLOUCH

203 - 205 Bath Street, Glasgow T: 0141 221 5518 www.slouch-bar.co.uk slouch.glasgow @SlouchGlasgow

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louch is as popular today as it is when it opened back in 2010. The bar prides itself not just on the quality of the entertainment on offer, but on its food and service too. Slouch has a team of chefs dedicated to using only the best locally sourced, seasonal produce and its menus full offer homemade, hearty classics. Slouch was built on the idea that music lovers and those who love good quality food and drink are not mutually exclusive. Rock bars/Live music venues are not usually known for great service, homemade food and cocktails. Slouch is all these things and more.

All Night Long

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Scottish S

cotland may be famous for its tartan, bagpipes and castles, and Scots may be behind some of the world’s most important inventions … penicillin, the telephone and television to name but a few, but it also offers some culinary treats.

Over the last few years locally sourced has become a buzz phrase and Glasgow restaurateurs pride themselves on doing just that. You’ll find Black pudding from Stornoway, Scallops from the Isle of Mull, and steak from Aberdeenshire on menus.

Cafe Source in the Merchant City, and Cafe Source 2 on the West end offer a great casual dining experience. They have always showcased Scotland’s finest ingredients, sourced from top Scottish suppliers, and include them in their delicious dishes. While Bird Tree & Bellsfish, a relative newcomer to the dining scene, actually calls itself a Glaswegian restaurant.

BIRDTREE & BELLFISH

923 Sauchiehall street, Glasgow, G37TQ T: 0141 330 1555 www.thelorneglasgow.com/birdtree-bellfish/ www.facebook.com/birdtreeandbellfish/

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irdtree & Bellfish is firmly rooted in being not just a Scottish, but Glaswegian restaurant. We believe that every dish tells a story.

We use recipes for traditional Scottish dishes that would be passed down from generation to generation and add our own modern twist with dishes such as our Irn-Bru fish & Chips and our deep fried mars bar. Our menu marries the bold flavours and impeccably sourced ingredients of the West Coast of Scotland cuisine with new, modern cooking techniques. Our multi layered menu features traditional recipes alongside flavoursome and exciting dishes. And of course, we can’t forget all the modern classics we serve!

Scottish

56

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 17 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.

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Scottish

CAFE SOURCE TOO

32 Hughenden Rd, Glasgow G12 9XP T: 0141 357 6437 www.cafesourcetoo.co.uk /Cafe-Source-Too-West-End

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ocated in the grounds of the recently refurbished Hillhead Sports Club lies Café Source Too. The sister restaurant to the original Café Source in the Merchant City, Café Source Too occupies the ground floor of the venue with an adjoining outdoor patio area which is extremely popular during the Summer months. The aim of Café Source Too is to showcase the best of locally sourced Scottish fayre, serving many Scottish classics with a modern twist offering the best of Scottish produce and ingredients. Alongside an A la Carte menu are daily specials with a wide choice of Scottish malt whiskies, gins and beers’ Pre-Theatre and Dinner Menu are also available, at certain times, offering fantastic value.

Scottish

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THE SQUARE BAR AND RESTAURANT 6-8 Norby Road, Broomhill, Glasgow G11 7BN T: 0141 337 6988 www.thesquareglasgow.com @thesquaregla @thesquaregla

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rom morning coffee and breakfast, to brunch, lunch and dinner; The Square Bar and Restaurant is new to the westend of Glasgow and offers a space for all occasions. Whether you’re just looking for a place to unwind with friends, have some peaceful lone time or enjoy some special time with a loved one or family, The Square Bar and Restaurant is the perfect choice. And with an extensive wine, gin, cocktail and drinks list, it can’t get any better. Open daily from 10am and serving quality local produce in a relaxed and friendly environment. This independently owned restaurant has become a much loved local favourite. Providing consistency in high quality produce and service you can be assured of a wonderful visit to this new neighbourhood hot spot. Small to large groups welcome and exclusive use hire events available. Free on-site parking. Free WiFi. Sunday roast. Kids menu. Dog friendly. Live music events.

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Scottish

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Indian I

t’s no secret that Glaswegians love a curry, which is probably why we boast such a vast quantity and variety of Indian restaurants across the city. If you favour traditional Indian dishes, Mr Singhs India is one of Glasgow’s most established family run restaurants. Offering the finest quality Indian cuisine, it’s no wonder it’s become a household name. On the other hand, if you value a creative twist on authentic Indian food, Bukharah offers a unique menu with modern takes on classic dishes and it’s award winning too. It’s impossible not to mention the mother of all Indian cuisine in the city, Mother India, it offers a fusion of the highest quality dishes influenced by both classic Punjabi cuisine and British favourite.

BUKHARAH

923 Sauchiehall street, Glasgow G3 7TQ T: 0141 330 1555 www.thelorneglasgow.com/bukharah-restaurant/ /BukharahLorneHotel/

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ukharah is an multi award winning authentic and creative Indian restaurant which brings the taste of the East to the West end of Glasgow. We deliver healthy, traditional Indian cuisine with flair and offer a wide selection of delicious and exciting dishes which appeal to all palates. All of the dishes that you’ll find on our unique menu are truly authentic, and each is carefully cooked by our award-winning chefs..

This includes all the classic combinations with chicken, lamb, prawn or vegetarian options. For the discerning diner, we also offer a number of adventurous, authentic and creative options with recipes straight from the region. Our versatile menu also accommodates to who prefer European dishes.

Indian

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MR SINGH’S INDIA

149 Elderslie Street Glasgow G3 7JR T: 0141 221 1452 www.mistersinghsindia.com @MisterSinghsIndia @MISTERSINGHS

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r Singh’s India has grown into one of the most established restaurant brands in the city of Glasgow. It’s been well over 20 years since the original restaurant opened and since then the Singh’s have become experts in Indian cuisine not just in Glasgow but nationwide. They’ve succeeded in becoming one of the city’s favourite and national award winning Indian restaurant establishments. The Singh’s have worked tirelessly to build their reputation, but the support of the local Glasgow population has helped shape the business into one of most popular Indian restaurants around. If you want authentic Indian food, then look no further than Mr Singh’s India. What started out as a humble family restaurant has grown into a household name and the story continues. Watch this space.

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Indian

MOTHER INDIA

28 Westminster Terrace, Glasgow G3 7RU T: 0141 221 1663 www.motherindia.co.uk /OfficialMotherIndia

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other India is aptly named because it is one of the longest established Indian restaurants and one of the best in the city. Its well known for its lively staff and its modern take on Indian classics.

I doesn’t serve up the usual dishes instead expect something a wee bit different and from a menu that is not too large - which no doubt is why the dishes they do are so good. Such is their success, they have been able to branch out, opening sister restaurants in Glasgow and Edinburgh, but the original restaurant on the corner at Westminster Terrace/Sauchiehall Street still remains our favourite. Mother India has deservingly grown into a true curry institution.

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Whisky bars W

hisky bars in Glasgow may well have shelves full of our national drink, but they also value good chat and a warm atmosphere.

Over in the west, Bag O’ Nails offers a great range of whiskies, 250 different bottled beers and spirits and customers can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere as well as the opportunity to enjoy the delicious food on the menu. The Ben Nevis in Finnieston is arguably one of the cosiest, and offers a warm welcome for not only customers, but dogs too! The Lismore in Partick takes Scottish pride to a whole new level with Gaelic signage hanging outside the bar and the name originates from an island in the inner Hebrides. It attracts a very mixed crowd, from older drinkers to students, making it a suitable choice for everyone. Last but not least is The Pot Still, one of Scotland’s most famous bars. It offers hundreds of malts to choose from and has a selection of Arran cask ales too. It also has friendly staff to help navigate you through the wide array of choices.

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BAG O’NAILS

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165 Dumbarton Rd Strathclyde G11 6AA T: 0141 465 9920 www.bag-o-nails.co.uk

ag O’ Nails, named after an iconic rock pub in Soho, London, is the first West End venture from the owners of popular Glasgow music bars Slouch and The Howlin’ Wolf. Like its sister venues, Bag O’ Nails offers up a rockin’ and rollin’ soundtrack but this time in a spacious, industrial-style setting that boasts the same laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. The bar’s towering gantry is packed with 250 different bottled beers and spirits, served alongside a great list of cheekily-titled cocktails. Bag O’ Nails also has a smaller restaurant space – entered via a magnificent mahogany revolving door – where it serves up daily specials, fantastic burgers and pizzas and a Sunday brunch menu featuring all day breakfasts and a good old Sunday Roast. Despite its size, the atmosphere in the main bar is always lively, enhanced by its live music 3 nights a week, and sporting events on its large 7 HD-TV Screens.

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Whisky Bar

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.

Whisky Bar

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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’!

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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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The Hidden Lane T

he Hidden Lane, located in trendy Finnieston, is Glasgow’s worst kept secret. Hidden away from the main strip of bars and restaurants, the charming cobbled lane is bursting with personality. With bright yellow buildings and little independent shops filled with bits and bobs, it really is a hidden gem. If you fancy some afternoon tea, The Hidden Lane Tea Room is a quaint, vintage style tearoom offering afternoon tea with home made cakes and delicious food. Just across the lane is The Lean Factory which also offers tasty meals, but of the healthy variety. No matter your dietary choices, in a bright and fun environment. Just at the entrance to the lane is the Flowers at Sandyford which offers everything from pretty handties to more formal arrangements. So if you are looking for some flowers to gift to a loved one or decorate your own home, Flowers at Sandyford is the ideal choice.

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71

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 Chocolate and Guinness Cake, Rose and Pistachio loaves and scones in many flavour varieties.. 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.

The Hidden Lane

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FLOWERS AT SANDYFORD 1101 Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8ND T: 0141 221 0658

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lowers at Sandyford was established in bustling Finnieston 8 years ago. Its team of experienced and friendly florists can create flowers for all occasions. Whether you are looking for a hand-tie for a birthday, a floral arrangement for a corporate function or a bespoke bouquet – Flowers at Sandyford can create the perfect arrangement. It not only offers beautiful, fresh flowers but its florists are happy to add a bit of sparkle too. It offers a same-day delivery for customers local to Glasgow and prides itself on offering a speedy and reliable service.

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The Hidden Lane

LEAN FACTORY 1103 Argyle Street, Unit 3, Stables Yard, Glasgow G3 8ND T: 0141 204 2995

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ean Factory is a healthy homemade kitchen located in The Hidden Lane, in the heart of famous Finnieston area. This unique cafe, with its vibrant interior and relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, is definitely a hidden gem. This popular west end venue offers a very reasonably priced menu and caters for literally everyone – vegans, meat lovers, gym goers and even those who aren’t concerned with their weight will find something they like on its wide-ranging menu which features a healthy spin on fish and chips, falafel, San Fran salad, Buddha bowls, smoothies, breakfast, sweets with no refined sugar and much more. Lean Factory aims to deliver nutritious and flavourful dishes to help you maintain a diet full of healthy carbs, fats, protein, vitamins and micro elements. You could be surprised how delicious healthy food can be! But do not take our word for that – go and try for yourself.

The Hidden Lane

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Best of the rest U

nfortunately, there is not enough space in our ‘wee’ guide to fit in every relevant category to showcase the best Glasgow has to offer for food and drink. That is why we include the ‘Best of the rest’ section where we can list the final group of bars and restaurants you can’t miss out on in Glasgow. Oran Mor in the West End is not just a great bar for mingling in, it also puts on great events such as A Play, a Pie or a Pint. Jinty’s is another West End bar which a great reputation. As you would expect from a great Irish pub, it offers live music most nights of the week and is always busy, but it has a lovely beer garden if there is any overspill.Stravaigin is an institution on Gibson Street. It feels very much like a local neighbourhood bar and restaurant although it has a slightly more formal restaurant area downstairs. If you like oriental food, the Amber Regent is one of the finest restaurants in the city offering a fine range of classic dishes in a modern setting. It’s service is first class too. The Citizen bar and Dining rooms, named after an old Glasgow newspaper of the same name, offers a carefully crafted drink and cocktails list along with a varied food menu in a spacious and rather grand setting.

Meanwhile, Thomsons Coffee, Scotland’s oldest coffee roasters, have opened a new restaurant and bakery in the Arches which offers customers the opportunity to experience the coffee roasting process, offering good food and an immersive coffee experience too.

AMBER REGENT

50 West Regent Street Glasgow G2 2RA T: 0141 331 1655 www.amberregent.com

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ince opening in 1988, Amber Regent has earned itself a glowing reputation for top-quaity, fine-dining Chinese cuisine, which combines fresh Scottish produce with traditional Chinese ingredients across a tantalising range of Cantonese and Szechuan dishes. It’s extensive menu includes memorable dishes like Kung Po Chicken, Beef in Oyster Sauce, Braised Squid and Aromatic Crispy Lamb served on exquisite china. A gluten free menu is also available. Amber Regent has a certain old school style and charm with its spotless linen-covered tables, elaborately folded napkins and classic décor, and prides itself on providing unfailingly exceptional and attentive service. It’s little surprise then that Amber Regent remains one of the best places for authentic Chinese cuisine in Glasgow.

Best of the Rest

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THE CITIZEN

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24 St Vincent Place, G1 2EU T: 0141 222 2909 www.thecitizenglasgow.co.uk @citizenglasgow @theglasgowcitizen

et in the beautiful surroundings of the completely restored grade A1 listed building, The Citizen Citizen Bar & Dining Rooms is set to be Glasgow’s newest hot spot. Serving varied menu of classic and contemporary dishes using the best local ingredients over breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner within a 218-seated venue. The space boasts a private dining room, alongside a carefully crafted drinks and cocktail list served up by some of Glasgow’s finest mixologists.

Making an appearance for the first time in Scotland since the 1980s, The Citizen is the first bar in the country to serve Tennent’s Tank Lager.

Combining a welcoming dining environment with first class produce and service, The Citizen brings modern flair to this classically restored building.

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Best of the Rest

JINTY MCGUINTY’S

29 Ashton Ln Glasgow G12 8SJ T: 0141 339 0747 JintyMcguintysIrishBar @jintyMcGuintys

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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.

Best of The Rest

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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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Best of The Rest

STRAVAIGIN

28 Gibson Street, Kelvinbridge, Glasgow G12 8NX T: 0141 334 2665 www.stravaigin.co.uk Stravaigin @StravaiginG12

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elebrating 20 years since first opening, Stravaigin is now firmly established as 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 9am-11am Monday - Friday and their famous brunch is just the ticket to bookend a lazy weekend stroll.

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.

Best of the Rest

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THOMSON’S COFFEE

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Burnfield Ave, Glasgow, G46 7TL T: 0141 637 0683 www.thomsonscoffee.com /thomsonscoffee /thomsonscoffee

homson’s, Scotland’s oldest coffee roaster Est. 1841 has just opened a new 58-seater cafe and in-house bakery with pizza, bread and pastry in the space formerly occupied by The Arches. Thomson’s joins a host of Glasgow food and drink vendors making use of the new, vibrant space under Central Station including Platform, a new street food market running every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. In it’s next stage the open plan space will include a training centre that will allow customers to experience the coffee roasting process, the centrepiece being a state-of-the-art Loring Kestrel S35 Smart Roaster, the only one of its kind and size in Scotland. The promise from Thomson’s Coffee Roasters is a ‘unique and immersive coffee experience.

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Best of the Rest

The Butterfly and the Pig. . . . . . . . 5 The Butterfly and the Pig South.5 The Botanic Gardens Rearooms. . 7 The Botanic Gardens Rearooms. . 7 The Singl-end Cafe & Bakehouse. . . . 8 Bier Halle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Beer Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 The Citizen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 The Clockwork Beer Co. . . . . . . . 12 Shilling Brewery Co. . . . . . . . . . . . 14 The Anchor Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 The Shandon Belles. . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Blue Dog. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Chelsea Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 House for an Art Lover. . . . . . . . . 20 Two fat Ladies in the Buttery . . 2§ Two Fat Ladies in the City . . . . . . 23 Two Fat Ladies in the West End. . . 22 Gamba . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 City Merchant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 The Fish People Cafe. . . . . . . . . . . 28 Atlantic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Bucks bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Halloumi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Rioja. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Saint Luke’s & the Winged Ox. . 34 The Flying Duck. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 The Shandon Belles. . . . . . . . . . . . 36 The Buthcershop Bar & Grill. . . . 39 The Grill Romm at the Square. . 40 Hutchesons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Meat Bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

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The Spanish Buthcer. . . . . . . . . . . 43 Eusebi Deli. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Caffe Parma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Gusto. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 La Rotunda. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 SoHo Pizzeria & Cocktail Bar. . . . 49 Cathouse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 The Garage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 The Howlin’ Wolf. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Slouch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 The Birdtree & Bellfish. . . . . . . . . . 56 Cafe Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Cafe Source Too. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 The Square Bar and Restaurant. . . . . 59 The Hidden Lane Tearoom. . . . . 57 Burkhara. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Mr Singh’s India . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Mother India. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Bag O’ Nails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 The Ben Nevis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 The Lismore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 The Pot Still. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Drygate Brewing Co. . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Amber Regent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 The Citizen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 Jinty McGuinty’s. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Stravagin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 Thomsons Coffee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Oran Mor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Lean Factory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Flowers at Sandyford. . . . . . . . . . . 80 The Hidden Lane Tearoom. . . . . 79

Award Winning Small Group Tours

Combine the scenery, history, and culture of Scotland with the nations’ best distilleries on a Rabbie’s whisky tour

Explore our guided one day to 17 day tours from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness at

www.rabbies.com/whisky

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