One of the coolest cities in Scotland? It's no wonder that Glasgow is full to the brim with great places to drink. From iconic (and sometimes secret) cocktail bars, to casual favourites serving the best in local scran, check out our recommendations for the best bars in Glasgow to visit while you're here.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 25th July 2024
When it comes to the best bars in Glasgow city centre, Flight Club really is a hot contender. Settle inside the quirky venue boasting vintage fairground decor and get to know the revolutionised version of darts, all while delving into bottomless pizza and bottles of bubbly.
One of the best bars in Glasgow's West End, Vodka Wodka has a cosy chalet-style look and the apres-ski party vibes to match. Check out this den whether you're in the mood for after-work Scotch or late-night cocktails.
When it comes to Glasgow's best bars, there's a regular name on the list, and that comes in the shape of Bar Soba. Not only known for their menu of Asian plates and unique cocktails, they're great for fun times and masterclasses alike.
The activity bar that's taken the country by storm, Glasgow's branch of NQ64 can be found in Merchant City. The unique venue is covered with a splattering of fluorescent graffiti, and it's filled with 31 different arcade machines - alongside eight retro consoles and two pinball machines. Whether you're booking out a booth for a big group or heading there for a quirky date night, you can get competitive over everything from Mortal Kombat to Mario Kart, while sipping themed cocktails such as an Aku Aku fruit punch.
If you're on the hunt for a top beer bar in Glasgow, don't overlook a beloved and well known classic. Serving up the best in tap, craft and bottled, BrewDog are at it again in the city, bringing you burgers alongside their must-try hops.
A favourite among many a Glaswegian, Brel is a West End restaurant and bar with great food and a great atmosphere. Whether you're flaked out back with a beer on a sunny day, or inside cosy and comfortable with a glass of wine on a cold night, Brel is a warm, friendly hangout with Scottish charm and hospitality by the bucketload. A diamond among diamonds on Ashton Lane, Brel is just the place get a great Glasgow night out off to a cracking (and delicious) start.
With a proud and diverse history of brewery excellent alcoholic drinks, Glasgow welcomes its first brewpub in the form of the Shilling Brewing Company. Based on West George Street, the bar itself is beautifully decorated, with exposed brick and large metal pipes giving the venue a distinctive industrial vibe.
While October may be best-known for its totally gorgeous interiors, did you know that it's got a mega cocktail menu to match? Knock back a range of quirky creations while surrounded by pink blossom trees, then enjoy a night on the tiles when a top DJ thumps out bangers on the weekend.
Cocktails? They've got it. Ping Pong? They've got it. Sensational surroundings? Check. Good eats, and great tunes? Done and most definitely done. There are so many reasons why we love this bar, but it comes down to one thing; the vibe. Whether it's the food or the drinks, the surroundings or the service, Hillhead Bookclub have nailed it, and we simply can't get enough. A fun, laid back bar against one helluva stunning backdrop, with cool games and cracking parties, can you tell we have a soft spot?
Boasting flower-adorned and neon-lit areas, Moskito Cocktail Bar & Restaurant is a real contender on Glasgow's best bars list. Head inside, where you'll be met with cool interiors, a dancefloor and plenty of space to dig into bespoke cocktails or internationally-inspired plates.
The Rotunda group (also known for Glasgow restaurant Halloumi and Pickled Ginger) have pulled it out of the bag with this Mexican favourite. Head down to Mezcal not only for a premium selection of the favoured spirit, but plenty of tacos and frozen margaritas alike.
Making quite a name for itself on the bar scene, Speakeasy on John Street knows how to nail top-notch concoctions. Whether you fancy quaffing a few raspberry daiquiris or a woo woo, this cocktail joint has plenty on offer. Hungry? Check out the burger menu.
Not only are The Smokin' Fox known for their menu of gastro classics and pub favourites (head down for fresh fish and bountiful burgers), they aren't shy a cocktail or two either, serving everything from unique smoking drinks to the espresso martini.
White Russians, big burgers and friendly smiles are at the forefront of this Argyle Street favourite. A must for the casual drinker in Glasgow, Lebowskis is a no-fuss spot where a celebration of the cult movie also doesn't go unnoticed.
A treat of a bar with a cosy rustic interior, blinding grub and friendly vibes, The Butterfly and the Pig is a popular stomping ground for many. A darling hangout in a great location, whether it's for a romantic date or a raucous catch-up, there's plenty of reasons this Bath Street bar is home to many a great Glasgow night out.
As one of just a few Glasgow secret bars, Chinaski's was always going to be high on our list for a great night out in Glasgow City Centre. With mighty cocktails, cool surroundings and chilled out vibes, Chinaski's is a bar for grown ups, without any stuffiness or pretension. A must-visit for anyone looking for a true hidden gem in Glasgow.
This sprawling venue just exudes Scottish charm, there's good reason The Ubiquitious Chip has pride of place on many a Glasgow bar crawl. From the epic banter and great music, to the extensive selection of eats and drinks, this Ashton Lane bar has a whole lot of heart and its earned itself a special place in ours.
A Sauchiehall Street bar, with a cool crowd and fun vibes, Nice 'N' Sleazy is a firm favourite among Glaswegians. From its cracking playlists and kicking club nights, to its divine burgers and delicious drinks, it may be a little rough about the edges, but we wouldn't have this great Glasgow bar any other way.
