You’ve eaten at all the big hitters in the most prominent parts of the city. Now you want to get off the beaten track and find some of the haunts reserved for those in the know. Whether secreted in an off-piste pocket of the centre, or in a residential suburb you’d never think to try for food, these are Glasgow’s hidden gems.
The best hidden gems in Glasgow
The Hidden Lane Tearoom
- Tea room
- Unit 8, 1103 Argyle St, Finnieston, Glasgow G3 8ND
Finnieston is a go-to for going out, but the Hidden Lane is a
cobbled and unexpected idyll away from the traffic of the main
drag. This is the perfect setting for a tiny tea room, found in a
corner at one end. Cakes and chai are all homemade, contributing to
the cosy, cottagey atmosphere in the bijou venue. You’ll eat and
drink from bone china at farmhouse-style tables, enjoying a touch
of vintage chintz.
Ca Va Brasserie
- French
- 227 Fenwick Rd, Giffnock, Glasgow G46 6JG
Unless you’ve been to Giffnock recently, you’re unlikely to
know about Ca Va Brasserie. And it fits in perfectly with this
neighbourhood’s upmarket, cosmopolitan vibe, proffering one of the
area’s largest outdoor seating areas. Inside, the brasserie’s
British and French bistro-style dishes are served to a backdrop of
bright and airy decor, punctuated by continental prints and large
mirrors.
But while Ca Va may be a relatively small and lesser-known
name in the foodie city, it comes from restaurateurs with stellar
credentials (this is the same team that brought us the now
multi-venue Topolabamba and Chaakoo Bombay Cafe). The savoir-faire
in the culinary world has certainly added something special here.
And it’s well worth a trip to Giffnock for a taste of Ca Va.
Number 10 Hotel
- Scottish
- Number 10 Hotel, 10-16 Queens Drive, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom, G42 8BS
A fantastic hidden gem in Glasgow is the Number 10 Hotel.
Located in the Southside of Glasgow, this boutique hotel offers an
elegant dining experience within its chic and cosy environment. The
restaurant inside Number 10 Hotel is celebrated for its
sophisticated menu that showcases a variety of seasonal, locally
sourced dishes, providing a refined yet approachable dining
experience.
The venue’s charm is enhanced by its stylish interior,
featuring a mix of contemporary and classic decor. It’s not just
the food that makes Number 10 Hotel stand out, but also the
intimate and welcoming atmosphere that makes it a perfect spot for
both casual meals and special occasions. Its location, slightly
removed from the city centre hustle, adds to its hidden gem status,
offering a serene escape for those in the know.
Chinaskis
- Beer garden, Grill
- 239 North St, Glasgow G3 7DL
You may be familiar with the bar that celebrates Charles
Bukowski, but did you know about the funky beer garden hidden
behind the intimate candlelit venue? Its eclectic decor includes a
stone statue centrepiece, colourful blooms, a large printed quote
from the muse and cheery Aperol-branded brollies. It’s bang central
on the uber-urban Sauchiehall Street, yet provides a little oasis
away from the crowds, best enjoyed with a cold beer on a sunny
day.
Ramen Dayo!
- Japanese, Ramen
- 31 Ashton Ln, Hillhead, Glasgow G12 8SJ, United Kingdom
Tucked away down the enchanting Ashton Lane, Ramen Dayo! is a
secret worth discovering for any noodle aficionado. Venture down
the lane’s charming, cobbled path, ascend the stairs, and find
yourself in a tiny eatery that’s big on flavour. Specialising in
authentic Japanese ramen, this hidden gem offers a cosy retreat
from the bustling streets above. The rich, flavourful broth and
perfectly cooked noodles make for a culinary experience that
transports you straight to the streets of Tokyo.
Eighty Eight
- Contemporary, Small plates
- 88 Dumbarton Rd, Glasgow G11 6NX, United Kingdom
On the bustling expanse of Dumbarton Road, Eighty-Eight is a
treasure that demands sharp eyes —blink and you might miss this
culinary jewel. This understated and intimate venue prides itself
on a simple yet sophisticated approach to dining. Fresh, locally
sourced ingredients are transformed into exquisite plates that
tantalise the taste buds. From handmade linguine and molten
chocolate puds to fresh salads and dainty sharing plates,
Eighty-Eight has something to suit all tastes.
The Craft Pottery
- BYOB
- Ground Floor, Suite 16, Axiom Building, 48-54 Washington St, Glasgow G3 8AZ, United Kingdom
Nestled within the unassuming confines of an industrial
warehouse lies The Craft Pottery, a creative oasis for those
looking to unleash their artistic spirit. This independent pottery
painting studio offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle,
inviting visitors to slow down and craft something beautiful.
Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, The Craft
Pottery provides a unique, hands-on experience that combines art
and relaxation. Oh, and it’s BYOB too!
Brutti Compadres
- Mediterranean
- 1TS, 3 Virginia Ct, Glasgow G1 1TE, United Kingdom
Located inside the picturesque Virginia Court, Brutti
Compadres stands as a beacon of Mediterranean warmth and
conviviality in Glasgow. As you meander through the court, guided
by a charming trail of fairy lights, the inviting scents of freshly
prepared tapas and the sound of laughter draw you in. This spot is
fun and friendly, making it the perfect gathering place for big
groups and parties. There’s a great cocktail menu to complement the
culinary offerings, and no visit is complete without their moreish
halloumi fries!
The Absent Ear
- Cocktails, Speakeasy
- It's a secret
Arguably the best hidden of them all, we’ve saved this one
till last. We can’t even tell you where the Absent Ear is located
(well, we could, but it would spoil the surprise). To find out the
address — you can have a clue, it’s in the Merchant City nucleus —
you’ll need to book a table to have the address sent to you. It’s
certainly not a venue you’d ever spot from the street and you won’t
get in without the evening’s exclusive password. This is Glasgow’s
ultimate speakeasy, with a cleverly played-out art theme and a deep
red colour scheme that envelops its guests. There’s no food here,
it’s all about the cocktails, which are heady and delightfully
hedonistic. Dress up and arrive thirsty. You’ll want to try a few
of the creative libations.
