A guest post from Gemma Pirnie, founder of Your New Crew, sharing some of her tips for places to eat and explore in Glasgow.
I moved to the West End of Glasgow about a year ago and instantly fell in love with its banter, charm and quirks; something which has continued with every new place that has cropped up in this time. Below are just some of my favourite places which I hope can provide some inspiration to those new to the city and for those looking for different places to explore. You’ll even find my recommendation for the best burger in Glasgow – I can assure you, it really is excellent!
Eating & Drinking
Velvet Elvis: This was the first restaurant I tried when I moved to Glasgow, and is still a firm favourite. The interior of the old butcher shop is rather quirky, with scrawl on the wall advising “Keep Partick weird”. The atmosphere is laid back and cool and the food fresh and different. This Partick restaurant is definitely off the beaten West End foodie path and worth a visit, even if just for a drink to soak up the atmosphere or to request your favourite song on its classic duke box. 566 Dumbarton Rd
McMillans Emporium: I almost hesitated to put this on the list for the purely selfish reason that maybe I won’t get my favourite booth if it gets too popular…! McMillans doesn’t sit in the most picturesque of settings, sandwiched between Broomhill drycleaners and a paper shop but inside the atmosphere is relaxed and the food fantastic. I’m also throwing down the gauntlet for you to find a better burger in Glasgow!! For me, McMillans does the best patty in Glasgow… go and see for yourself! Broomhill Shopping Centre
Masala Twist: It’s easy to see why Glasgow has been crowned curry capital of Scotland, with so many great restaurants to choose from. On a Friday night when cooking just doesn’t seem like it’s going to happen this is my go-to Indian takeaway (and good to eat-in too). Everybody has their favourite curry place but this Byres Road restaurant gets my vote. The Peshwari nan is amazing with a generous filling of coconut. Byres Road, next to Hillhead Subway
Café Zique: One of my favourite spots for brunch, if you can get in (no reservations and it’s not a secret how good it is)! If you do manage to grab a table, try the eggs benedict. Great spot to take a paper and enjoy a lazy Sunday watching the world pass. 66 Hyndland St
Vespbar: Amazing pizza by the metre and some of the best antipasti outside of Italy as well as prosecco on tap. This hidden away bar/restaurant near Central Station is a firm favourite and is a little quirky too! 14 Drury St
St Louis Café Bar: Right at the Broomhill-end of Dumbarton Road, this friendly bar has a great selection of drinks, bar snacks and meals to choose from. The atmosphere is very relaxed; with entertainment high on the cards, including live music most weekends, a quiz and a selection of board games. But don’t be fooled, it’s also a great place to chill out and watch the pavement traffic. 734 Dumbarton Rd
Tourist Spots
Glasgow has so many unique outdoor spaces which are ideal for a venture too, particularly after some good old culinary indulging. Some of my favourite places to visit on foot include;
Glasgow Necropolis: This Victorian cemetery in Glasgow’s East End provides some of the best views over the city as well as giving an insight into Glasgow’s past. Some amazing tombs and stones line the paths and once you’re up the hill it’s an easy stroll around.
The Barras and Barrowland Ballroom: If you’re already in the East End then extend your walk over to the Barras market for a wander round. There really is no other market like it. While here it is worth a visit to the Barrowland Ballroom, probably one of Glasgow’s most famous venues.
The Squinty Bridge: Back towards Glasgow’s West End there’s a great walk/run that will show you some of Glasgow’s modern architecture. Aim for the SECC and cross The Clyde on Bells/Millenium Bridge to the BBC building before crossing back over the Squinty Bridge to complete your loop. You’ll see the brand new Hydro building, The Armadillo, Science Centre, Riverside Museum and many more.
Dumbarton Rock: I know it isn’t by foot but Dumbarton Rock and park are great outdoor spaces in Glasgow, and at only a short drive/train/bus away, definitely worth a visit. The scenery is great and there is nothing better than a walk along the shore to blow away the cobwebs and burn off some of Glasgow’s culinary delights!
Gemma Pirnie is founder of Your New Crew, which organises events across Glasgow (and Edinburgh) that aim to introduce graduates/young professionals to their city and each other. The first Glasgow event takes place this October (Fri 25th) at 6.30pm in the Mash&Press at The Corinthian Club, and aims to turn attendees into true “weegies” with the Your New Crew Great Glasgow Quiz. More information is available at www.yournewcrew.com.
