A Chef’s Guide To Glasgow
By
9 months ago
Gary Townsend shares his favourite restaurants in the Scottish city
Edinburgh might be known for its Michelin stars, but Glasgow is arguably becoming Scotland’s most exciting city when it comes to food. In recent years the buzzing city has welcomed a whole host of interesting new restaurants, serving everything from traditional Scottish fare to Mediterranean-inspired small plates. Planning a trip there? We’ve enlisted chef Gary Townsend – who is opening his first restaurant in the city this spring – to share his recommendations for the best places to eat in Glasgow.
Gary Townsend
After growing up in Cambridgeshire, Gary spent years working in some of the UK’s most prestigious restaurants including L’Enclume and Restaurant Sat Bains. He then moved to Scotland, joining the team at Cameron House in Loch Lomond before taking up the position of head chef at the famed One Devonshire Gardens, which attained 3 AA Rosettes under Gary’s leadership. And this spring, he’s striking out on his own, opening Elements in Bearsden. The 40-cover restaurant will focus on fine dining amid relaxed settings, showcasing the best local produce.
Best Places To Eat In Glasgow: Gary Townsend’s Pick
Partick Duck Club
PDC is my go-to place for brunch, especially with my team. Friendly staff and a nice cosy atmosphere, food always delicious and plentiful, I’ve never seen this place not busy. Definitely book in advance!
27 Hyndland St, Partick, Glasgow G11 5QF, partickduckclub.co.uk
The Gannet
The Gannet
A true Glasgow institution, and one of my favourite Glasgow restaurants. With impeccable, delicious dishes and stand-out Scottish hospitality it’s perfect for a special date.
1155 Argyle St, Finnieston, Glasgow G3 8TB, thegannetgla.com
No40 Bearsden
A small neighbourhood speciality deli and bottle shop, this place might be small but it contains all of my favourite things. From unusual artisan gins and the perfect coffee, to delicious cheeses from George Mews and addictive snacks from Freedom Bakery, this little hideaway in the centre of Bearsden is an absolute gem!
40 New Kirk Rd, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 3SL, numberforty.co.uk
Oro
Situated in Glasgow’s Southside, this family-run Italian restaurant with authentic Italian cookery and welcoming staff is always buzzing. Delicious pasta and pizzas with a very reasonable wine list, my favourite dish is the Pasta Calabrese.
85 Kilmarnock Rd, Shawlands, Glasgow G41 3YR, oro.restaurant
Mother India
Glasgow is blessed with many exceptional Indian restaurants, but Mother India is always consistently brilliant. Good value for money and delicious, flavoursome dishes, I would eat here every week if I could!
28 Westminster Terrace, Finnieston, Glasgow G3 7RU, motherindia.co.uk
Ian Brown
Another Southside favourite, Ian Brown is an exceptional chef delivering seriously great food in a beautiful, cosy, relaxed environment. With a cocktail special on most weeks, it’s great value and well worth the travel out of the centre to try.
55 Eastwoodmains Rd, Giffnock, Glasgow G46 6PW, ianbrownrestaurant.co.uk
Ox and Finch
Ox and Finch
A firm favourite for visitors coming to Glasgow as well as locals, Ox and Finch provides delicious, globally inspired sharing plates that offer up something new every time you visit. Very relaxed with delicious cocktails, it’s a great place to meet up with pals. Their confit duck salad is dreamy.
920 Sauchiehall St, Finnieston, Glasgow G3 7TF, oxandfinch.com
The Buttery
One of Glasgow’s oldest restaurants, The Buttery serves up traditional fine Scottish fare with passion and flavour. Great service, fab drinks and very reasonable prices. It’s sometimes overlooked for newer more contemporary offerings, but well worth the stop.
652 Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8UF, twofatladiesrestaurant.com
Elements is opening this spring, elementsgla.com
