The 10 Best Local Restaurants In Glasgow, Scotland

Owner Jacqueline O’Donnell is the force behind this chic restaurant in Glasgow’s Finnieston neighborhood, a hop, skip and jump from popular music venue The Hydro. From a home-smoked Shetland cod fillet, to Isle of Mull scallops, to Howgate brie, everything the kitchen turns out is Scottish food at its finest.

With a motto of ‘think global, eat local,’ it comes as no surprise that this renowned restaurant serves up Scottish fare with a hint of worldwide spice. Try the award-winning haggis, or come by for weekend brunch and order up a full Scottish breakfast, featuring square sausage, beans, fried egg, mushrooms, tattie scone, grilled tomato, black pudding, and bacon.

This Indian restaurant is often touted as the birthplace of chicken tikka masala, the national dish of Britain. The restaurant’s manager, Asif Ali, says that ‘We consider ourselves to be Glaswegians first and Scottish second so we are proud to have invented it here.’

Around since 1971, The Chip has become an institution, reinventing and refining old regional classics since a time way back when, when the idea of Scottish cuisine was widely believed by many to be ludicrous. Using seasonal and fresh ingredients provided by specialist suppliers, this is one restaurant not to miss.

For a warm and rustic atmosphere and some delicious Scottish cooking, this is the place to be. The two private rooms are perfect for birthdays or other occasions, as well as for meetings. With elegantly rendered versions of traditional offerings such as cullen skink, battered haddock and chips, and more, Bothy is a must-visit. Bothy Glasgow | © slack12/Flickr

Sit outdoors on the cobbled patio if weather permits, or upstairs on the balcony for a sophisticated dining experience at Arisaig, which specializes in innovative takes on perennial Scottish classics. Oh, and don’t forget a drink: the restaurant offers over 100 different single malt and blended whiskies.

For excellent local seafood, look no further than this restaurant located in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City. Try the oysters, Scottish venison, or the North Sea poached fillet of cod; but vegetarians shouldn’t worry, because the meat-free dishes are just as wonderful, including homemade potato gnocchi with peas, fennel, and a glaze made of Dunsyre blue cheese.

This elegant, Victorian-styled restaurant and bar uses locally sourced produce to create Scottish favourites with a twist. Feeling adventurous? Go for the chicken breast stuffed with black pudding, served with mashed potato and Arran mustard jus.

A bustling and welcoming spot, this convivial grill will make diners feel right at home amid the comfortable leather seats and dark wood surroundings. Especially if you start the meal with one of the restaurant’s wonderful specialty cocktails, like the Eton Mess or a Sloe Negroni.

Decorated with red walls, white brick, and exposed rafters, this West End restaurant is a unique and modern place. The menu is ever-changing due to availability and quality of fresh produce, making every meal here a special one.