The name Glasgow comes from Gaelic for ‘dear green place’. Perhaps not the first thing that comes to mind when we talk of a city famous for its locomotive and shipbuilding industries, and which still seems perversely proud of its somewhat gritty, working-class reputation.
Yet Glasgow has grown enormously in attractiveness to locals and visitors since the late 20th century. I’ve been visiting my father’s home town since 1990 – the year it was named European Capital of Culture – and I can tell you that Glasgow is home to some of the world’s friendliest and funniest people. Forget deep-fried Mars bars — this Glasgow food guide will show you a city that has become one of Scotland’s most exciting food destinations, with great options from fine dining to speciality coffee. As well as its history, architecture, museums, galleries, shopping and bohemian West End, Glasgow is the perfect starting point for a tour of Scotland’s stunning scenery — you can be on the bonny banks of Loch Lomond in just 30 minutes. Scotland’s largest city lives up to its Gaelic name too, with more green space per capita than any other European city. Slàinte mhath!
Where To Stay in Glasgow Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa
Overlooking the gardens of Blythswood Square, this luxurious hotel was once three separate Georgian townhouses (and later the Royal Scottish Automobile Club). Now it’s Glasgow’s best hotel, with excellent service, great breakfast buffet, and just a few minutes’ walk to the city centre. It’s a lovely blend of contemporary (the snow shower in the spa!) and classic, with original Georgian features and beautiful Harris Tweed furnishings.
Best Fine Dining in Glasgow Eleven Fifty Five
For over 10 years, Peter McKenna and Keven Dow ran The Gannet, my favourite Scottish restaurant. In early 2026 they changed to Eleven Fifty Five and a more relaxed direction. The degustation menu is gone but this is still one of Scotland’s finest dining experiences, combining Peter’s deft touch with the best seasonal produce and Kevin’s thoughtful wine pairings. Real candlelight, white linen and superb service – wish I lived closer!
Best Casual Eats in Glasgow Margo
This huge restaurant in Glasgow’s bustling Merchant City is all about generous serves of delicious food ideal for sharing. Expect great house-baked focaccia alongside the likes of skate in a citrusy cumquat sauce, Shetland mussels in cider with sobrasada, and beautifully rare lamb shoulder with salsa verde; everything well-seasoned, well-sauced and just plain tasty! Even when it’s heaving, service is relaxed, efficient and friendly – great wine list too!
Best Coffee & Pastries in Glasgow Singl-end
You’ll find some of Glasgow’s best coffee at the two cosy singl-end café-bakeries – one in Merchant City and the other (Garnethill) downstairs in an inner city backlane near the West End. Mouth-watering doesn’t begin to describe their huge array of cakes and slices, as well as breakfasts, salads and sandwiches. They bake their own bread too (no traditional baps though so see video below to make your own).
Where To Drink in Glasgow The Pot Still
With over 1,000 whiskies on offer, this antique watering-hole has seen locals and visitors side by side at the long wooden bar since at least 1867 (when it was owned by wine & spirits merchant John Hill). The largest collection of single malts from across Scotland – plus blends and whiskies from around the globe – means even die-hard whisky-heads will find something they’ve never tried before. Great real ale too.
What To Do in Glasgow The Mackintosh Tea Rooms Tour
Glasgow has a number of properties ‘inspired by’ renowned Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, but this is the only remaining tearooms designed by him in the early 1900s. A guided tour of what was once Miss Cranston’s Willow Tearooms on Sauchiehall St is a real glimpse into the past and the far-reaching influence Mackintosh, his artist wife Margaret MacDonald, and the progressive Kate Cranston had on the world around them.
Updated 17 May 2026
