The Best French Restaurants In Glasgow

National cultural hub and home to institutions such as the Scottish opera, ballet and theatre, Glasgow, was originally famed for its Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture. However, Scotland‘s largest city now has some amazing fine dining experiences on offer, and we’re no longer talking about haggis and deep fried Mars bars. Glasgow has a growing haute cuisine culture, with celebrity chefs, Francophone Glaswegians and even escargot on offer for the French foodie fans among us.

1. Brian Maule at Chardon d'Or

Restaurant, French, Vegetarian

Once head chef at Le Gavroche, now Glasgow-based, Brian Maule needs no introduction. Highly recommended by the well-known Michel Roux Jr. as well as some of the countries best critics, this chef certainly knows how to cook French cuisine. Brian Maule at Chardon d’Or serves truly mouth-watering food with impeccable service. The restaurant has a highly professional yet relaxed atmosphere, large and lavish with polished floorboards, good art and good music. Like any good French menu, nearly everything is dripping in butter or cream, but don’t let this hold you back as there are some delicious fresh and clean dishes, as well as fish and vegetarian options. The restaurant also offers event dinners such as cabarets and wine tastings as well as private dining options for weddings, parties etc.

2. Smiths

Brasserie, Restaurant, French

A small but busy brasserie, Smiths, located in Uddington, has a rustic feel and nice décor. Smiths provides a high quality French style menu in a relaxing atmosphere with quiet colours, wood textures and soft mood lighting. Utilising fresh, locally-sourced produce, the menu boasts of classic haute cuisine with a Scottish twist with notable fish and vegetarian options. The proprietor takes pride in his work, something you can see from the beautifully presented dishes with superb pan to plate execution. With welcoming, attentive and knowledgeable staff you can be guaranteed an excellent dining experience.

3. Le Bistro Beaumartin

Bar, Bistro, Wine Bar, Restaurant, French

Le Bistro Beaumartin is an authentic French bistro and wine bar set in an intimate, retro atmosphere, ideally situated in the heart of Glasgow’s financial district on Hope St. This cosy bistro offers a selection of delicious, home cooked French classics based on traditional Burgundian family recipes. Traditional favourites like beef bourguignon, French onion soup, and confit duck are found here and even snails and frog’s legs grace the menu. The bistro also hosts special events including a full cabaret show with your dining experience. This humble bistro was awarded Best European Establishment at the 2014 Scotland FOOD Awards.

4. La Bonne Auberge

Bar, Brasserie, Restaurant, French, Mediterranean

Ideally situated for the concert halls and cinemas nearby, based in Glasgow’s Theatreland, is authentic French Mediterranean brasserie, La Bonne Auberge. Using only the freshest ingredients, the menus offer tantalising cuisine inspired by France and the Mediterranean as well as excellent value for money. Open for over 40 years, it continues to thrive and innovate under the guidance of their award winning Executive Head Chef, Gerry Sharkey. With plenty of dining deals regularly on offer as well as their loyalty club it makes for a great experience at an affordable price. Patrons can also book the Montmartre Suite, unique in both style and décor and boasting an exclusive bar and dance floor, it is available for parties of 10-100.

5. The Honours at Malmaison

Brasserie, Restaurant, French, British

Based in the Malmaison Hotel on West George Street is the second new restaurant from award-winning chef and restaurateur Martin Wishart. With its glittering domed ceilings and relaxed ‘brasserie-style’ service, The Honours is truly a step up from the usual restaurant. The critically-acclaimed menu and luxurious but relaxed atmosphere has caused a real stir in the city. Featuring a mix of traditional and modern French cuisine, The Honours is available for lunch, dinner and private dining. The wine list is long, the food is fresh and plentiful and even the décor looks good enough to eat.

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