Marooned in level two, Glasgow’s food and drink is rousing from slumber and hitting new heights despite continuing challenges.
Our Restaurant Power Rankings are back to give a snapshot of the must-visit food places in the city, judged by the ever-fluctuating quality: Who has the most buzz? Here’s the most talked about restaurants of the week.
1 Unalome by Graeme Cheevers
A fantastic launch menu has sent demand for a table in this new restaurant on Kelvingrove Street into overdrive. As we emerge blinking into the sunlight after an extended period without local hospitality, enjoy an ambitious standard of fine dining with grilled fillet of North Sea turbot, Orkney scallops and roasted Goosnargh duck.
2 The Duke’s Umbrella
Glasgow’s latest gastropub is a smash hit with chef John Molloy unveiling a series of innovative dishes to go alongside a creative cocktail menu. Go for charcoal grilled langoustines, slow braised ox cheek and seasonal pies. Order the Guinness panna cotta for dessert.
3 The Gannet
Peter McKenna takes things up a notch as this Finnieston favourite returns with an impressive new tasting menu. The line caught mackerel dish with seaweed and horseradish is outstanding. After being closed for much of the last year, the team are back with a renewed sense of purpose.
4 Cail Bruich
Glasgow’s Michelin star gets the chance to shine with bookings soaring. Visit for Lorna McNee’s latest menu, a seasonal celebration of Scottish produce. Eat well on Great Western Road.
5 The Luchador
This South American influenced bar is the latest addition to the food scene on Pollokshaws Road. Enjoy breakfast tacos or spicy egg dishes in the morning with tortillas, chilli and chorizo on the menu in the evening to go with your agave cocktail.
6 Bramble
This brunch café has relocated from Giffnock to the Southside, opening opposite Queen’s Park with brioche rolls, toasted sandwiches, waffles and an impressive selection of cakes.
7 Juicy
Since opening their first juice bar on Byres Road last month, the demand for superfoods has led to the announcement of a second location at Silverburn, due to open in early August. Founder Fallon Carberry has tapped into a health-conscious community that are helping to build a new local brand.
8 Bier Halle
While we can now enjoy pizza and beer inside, there’s still enthusiasm for sitting out in the sunshine on Gordon Street and Buchanan Street at Bier Halle’s long-running summer terraces.
9 Salt & Chilli Oriental
Chef Jimmy Lee’s pop-up takeaway on Dumbarton Road mixes Hong Kong street food dishes with a dose of Glasgow attitude. They opened in March and have established an enthusiastic following in the West End.
Instagram.com/saltandchilligla
10 Ka Pao
Big Southeast Asian flavours that continue to draw the crowds. Go for corn ribs with salted coconut and lime, grilled sea bream with peanut and ginger or a green curry of lamb shoulder with broad beans and banana chilli.
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