FOR years, a fast food outlet on Alexandra Parade lay empty.

I wandered past the orange-shuttered Ruby’s Food Club on my daily commute, wondering what happened to this ill-fated takeaway joint. While new cafes and bakeries popped up across Dennistoun on what felt like a weekly basis, I often pondered whether Ruby’s would take on a new form too. 

It took a good five years but finally one day workmen were in the shop unit, installing a shiny new counter and screens. Even balloons went up outside! It was a big day for the Parade. A few weeks later a branch of Rio’s Authentic Piri Piri was unveiled.

While Glasgow has its fair share of chicken branches already – and a reputation for being pretty hit or miss – I was more than happy to play my part of give Rio’s a try for my regular Glasgow Times takeaway review.  

The chain, which now has two branches in Scotland along with a handful in the south of England, is registered with several delivery firms and allows customers to order via their own site (no app required) making things smooth and simple. Ideal after a late night working. I was able to easily pop my order into their system and was told I could come and collect within 15 minutes while making my way home.  

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I paid £7.99 for a “Rio’s Wrapster” meal, which consisted of a chicken wrap (medium heat), piri piri fries and a drink. There was no delivery fee as I was collecting, so it seemed a reasonable deal. I arrived at Rio’s on time, picked up my parcel of spicy goodness, and headed home.  

The portions were really sizeable, with the fries practically spilling out of their container onto everything else. For a fast-food place, the wrap contained a surprising amount of chicken – actually real, proper, flavourful chicken breast, too. The fresh salad leaves were crisp and crunchy, while the sauce had a lovely tang to it. Rio’s is a little spicier than your standard Nando’s so go easy on yourself if heat isn’t for you, but it hit the spot for me.  

Out of all of Glasgow’s plentiful chicken joints I’ve sampled, I’d have to say Rio’s was the most impressive. With so much choice on the menu, I’ll definitely be back for another treat after a future stress-filled day – I’ve already got my eye on the burritos …  

Total: £7.99 (no delivery fee) 

Rating ****