What: Pub
For: Lunch
With: Friend
Site: Doesn't have one.
This is the pub, not the poor attempt at larger, just in case you were concerned.
I dropped by a few weeks ago with a friend, as a break from study (anyone pointing out that I seemed to have spent more time taking breaks from study than actually studying, will be kindly asked to leave). It's a reasonably obvious choice for a pub lunch if you're chilling out near the uni.
It is, admittedly, an old man's pub. It has a lot of whisky, and a lot of real ale. Unfortunately, a lot of my friends seem to be old men, except that they're not old yet. They'll do their best to fool you anyway. On the other hand, it also has double Havana Club and mix for £3, so I won't whine (too much).
For an old man's pub, though, it's not bad. It's friendly enough, the staff are polite, you don't tend to wait long to get served. It's also nice and light, dark pubs are all very atmospheric, and it makes little difference at night, but if you're after lunch in the middle of summer, you want it light. Studying is depressing enough as it is.
I ordered fish and chips, the old-man-in-the-making got scampi, and we picked up a side of onion rings. The portions are generous, and apparently the scampi is wonderful, but the meals are very basic, even for pub fare. The chips are detectably oven-chips, the fish tasted good, but lacked anything special.
Also, I must urge you not to get the burgers. I've seen so many people ordering and enjoying them, but I just don't understand. I've tried one, and it was completely uninspiring. Now, I know it's just pub food, and that's fine, but it doesn't make it good. Being aware that Ketchup is only two minutes away, I don't know why you'd settle for second best.
In fairness to them though, the steak pie is pretty good, if probably completely identical to every other steak pie available in pubs throughout the West End. The onion rings weren't bad either, and though I've not had one, the deserts do look rather special.
This all sounds very critical, but I actually kind of like this place. It's decidedly inexpensive (I don't think there's a single item on the menu that would make a student balk). It's convenient, friendly, and a pleasant place to simply sit and chat. It's just that the food isn't very interesting.
Maybe they just need to revamp the menus or something. I don't eat pub food in the West End all that often, so I guess I'll try a few more places for comparison, and then judge afresh.
Tennents is a nice pub. I'd go there. I do, often. But I think next time I'm there and someone suggests we get food, I'll try to drag them somewhere else for it. Byres Road has too many exciting places to eat to waste time on mediocre burgers.
Sunday 30 August 2009
Saturday 29 August 2009
Cafe Andaluz (West End)
What: Restaurant
For: Lunch
With: Colleagues
Site: Here
It would seem that Glaswegians love tapas. As well as normal Spanish tapas restaurants (some would say that if it isn't Spanish, it isn't tapas, and I have to admit that I'm one of them) you can also find Italian "tapas," Indian "tapas" and Chinese "tapas." To name but a few. The restaurants seem to be cropping up everywhere.
Not that I object, of course, I like snacking on a selection of tasty tidbits as much as anyone else. Just emphasising that there's plenty of choice.
If the choice is mine, I'll select Cafe Andaluz. Especially if someone's carrying a Snapfax, because 20% off food goes a long way with a decent sized group of people, and you should always get tapas with as many people as you can.
On this occasion we went for lunch to the branch on Cresswell Lane. We each ordered three tapas, and to my horror, didn't share them. This is a practice that makes me squirm, this kind of food is for sharing, that is clear. Unfortunately, some people can't quite manage that, and being the nice, polite kind of person (and being fully aware that I was getting lunch with some people who until recently had been my bosses) I said nothing.
Unfortunately, that means I can't tell you if their dishes were good or not. However, mine were. I ordered calamares, champinones and chorizo frito al vino. All were delicious, including the calamares, which people often overcook. A slight relief came in that everyone was happy to share the bread and olives that arrived, and which went with the tapas as well as you would expect.
This branch is downstairs, but is lit well enough that while you're dining you aren't aware of being underground. On this occasion it was quiet, but the staff managed to be attentive without being annoying, in spite of their boredom with nothing to do.
I can also tell you, from previous visits, that their paellas are delicious, and excellent value. They suggest that they feed two, but they are wrong, they feed three. Three very hungry people. I wouldn't usually order paella at a tapas restaurant, because I usually feel like I'm there to try a range of things - which I am - but it is a shame, because they really are quite excellent. Unfortunately, the mini paellas you often find among the tapas options are never quite up to scratch, so you shouldn't use them as the basis for what the full sized ones will taste like.
I'm going to try to come back here some more. Ideally with people who don't have phobias about sharing food, so that we can do it properly. The only thing that restricts me is that La Tasca insist upon sending me 50% off food offers with great regularity. Now La Tasca do serve perfectly good tapas, I really enjoy them, and I always have fun there. However, Cafe Andaluz are that little bit better. It's reflected in the price, but I think it's well worth it.
Of the three "tapas" places I've been to in Glasgow, Cafe Andaluz remains a firm favourite. Because it's better quality, because it has a better selection, and because it's more authentic. I'll be heading back as soon as I can.
For: Lunch
With: Colleagues
Site: Here
It would seem that Glaswegians love tapas. As well as normal Spanish tapas restaurants (some would say that if it isn't Spanish, it isn't tapas, and I have to admit that I'm one of them) you can also find Italian "tapas," Indian "tapas" and Chinese "tapas." To name but a few. The restaurants seem to be cropping up everywhere.
Not that I object, of course, I like snacking on a selection of tasty tidbits as much as anyone else. Just emphasising that there's plenty of choice.
If the choice is mine, I'll select Cafe Andaluz. Especially if someone's carrying a Snapfax, because 20% off food goes a long way with a decent sized group of people, and you should always get tapas with as many people as you can.
On this occasion we went for lunch to the branch on Cresswell Lane. We each ordered three tapas, and to my horror, didn't share them. This is a practice that makes me squirm, this kind of food is for sharing, that is clear. Unfortunately, some people can't quite manage that, and being the nice, polite kind of person (and being fully aware that I was getting lunch with some people who until recently had been my bosses) I said nothing.
Unfortunately, that means I can't tell you if their dishes were good or not. However, mine were. I ordered calamares, champinones and chorizo frito al vino. All were delicious, including the calamares, which people often overcook. A slight relief came in that everyone was happy to share the bread and olives that arrived, and which went with the tapas as well as you would expect.
This branch is downstairs, but is lit well enough that while you're dining you aren't aware of being underground. On this occasion it was quiet, but the staff managed to be attentive without being annoying, in spite of their boredom with nothing to do.
I can also tell you, from previous visits, that their paellas are delicious, and excellent value. They suggest that they feed two, but they are wrong, they feed three. Three very hungry people. I wouldn't usually order paella at a tapas restaurant, because I usually feel like I'm there to try a range of things - which I am - but it is a shame, because they really are quite excellent. Unfortunately, the mini paellas you often find among the tapas options are never quite up to scratch, so you shouldn't use them as the basis for what the full sized ones will taste like.
I'm going to try to come back here some more. Ideally with people who don't have phobias about sharing food, so that we can do it properly. The only thing that restricts me is that La Tasca insist upon sending me 50% off food offers with great regularity. Now La Tasca do serve perfectly good tapas, I really enjoy them, and I always have fun there. However, Cafe Andaluz are that little bit better. It's reflected in the price, but I think it's well worth it.
Of the three "tapas" places I've been to in Glasgow, Cafe Andaluz remains a firm favourite. Because it's better quality, because it has a better selection, and because it's more authentic. I'll be heading back as soon as I can.
Friday 28 August 2009
The Alexandra (Harrogate)
What: Pub
For: Drinks
With: Friends
Site: They don't have one, but there is a facebook group if you care enough to search for it.
The Alex is a nice big pub in Harrogate, equipped with a giant bar, two pool tables and more TVs than you can shake a stick at. Most often they tend to be showing sport, add that to the pool tables and real ales, and you can see why most of their clientèle are male.
However, they're clearly anxious to cater for the girlfriends who will at some point get dragged along. A fairly standard set of cocktails is available (including pitchers, and some really rather fun shooters) enough to make it better than Wetherspoons, anyway. It also tends to have offers on wines - usually a discounted bottle or the promise that if you buy two glasses they'll give you the bottle for free. Very nice of them.
Another big plus is that they don't have something that the only other big pub offering pool has: Giant squishy sofas. To me, a big squishy sofa can make or break a place, usually it's enough to persuade me to stay all night, so long as no one nicks my seat when I go to the bar. I won't whine about sitting on a normal chair, a bench, or a bar stool, but the sofa is king. If I ever open any kind of pub, bar, coffee shop etc, I will insist upon having as many squishy sofas as I can.
That aside, back to the Alex.
Drink prices are about average, and it's always busy on a Friday and Saturday night. To the extent that there may be three people between you and the bar when you go to get a drink. Fortunately, the bar is massive (as I've said), and the bar staff are very quick. You feel a bit mean asking for three complicated cocktails, until you realise it'll take them much less than three minutes to make them.
Having eaten here once, I can also tell you that the food is quite good. Standard pub fare is on offer, but it's quality is somewhat better, and I'm told they do an enviable Sunday lunch. I suspect that's true, but I also suspect that there will be quite a wait for it, since if it does get busy, they have a lot of tables to serve.
So, in summary, not a bad place to sit with friends and waste a couple of hours, and (usually) big enough to deal with how popular it is.
For: Drinks
With: Friends
Site: They don't have one, but there is a facebook group if you care enough to search for it.
The Alex is a nice big pub in Harrogate, equipped with a giant bar, two pool tables and more TVs than you can shake a stick at. Most often they tend to be showing sport, add that to the pool tables and real ales, and you can see why most of their clientèle are male.
However, they're clearly anxious to cater for the girlfriends who will at some point get dragged along. A fairly standard set of cocktails is available (including pitchers, and some really rather fun shooters) enough to make it better than Wetherspoons, anyway. It also tends to have offers on wines - usually a discounted bottle or the promise that if you buy two glasses they'll give you the bottle for free. Very nice of them.
Another big plus is that they don't have something that the only other big pub offering pool has: Giant squishy sofas. To me, a big squishy sofa can make or break a place, usually it's enough to persuade me to stay all night, so long as no one nicks my seat when I go to the bar. I won't whine about sitting on a normal chair, a bench, or a bar stool, but the sofa is king. If I ever open any kind of pub, bar, coffee shop etc, I will insist upon having as many squishy sofas as I can.
That aside, back to the Alex.
Drink prices are about average, and it's always busy on a Friday and Saturday night. To the extent that there may be three people between you and the bar when you go to get a drink. Fortunately, the bar is massive (as I've said), and the bar staff are very quick. You feel a bit mean asking for three complicated cocktails, until you realise it'll take them much less than three minutes to make them.
Having eaten here once, I can also tell you that the food is quite good. Standard pub fare is on offer, but it's quality is somewhat better, and I'm told they do an enviable Sunday lunch. I suspect that's true, but I also suspect that there will be quite a wait for it, since if it does get busy, they have a lot of tables to serve.
So, in summary, not a bad place to sit with friends and waste a couple of hours, and (usually) big enough to deal with how popular it is.
Thursday 27 August 2009
Monty's Jazz Bar (Harrogate)
What: Bar
For: Cocktails
With: Friends
Site: Here
Well, first of all, it's not a jazz bar. At least it isn't any more, maybe it used to be once. These days they play rock, and it's variations, from classic rock, to punk, to metal, to emo, and everything in between. Occasionally they have live bands, though I've never gone there to see one.
They do play the music very loud as well. I'm not sure if they're open during the day, or at what time they turn the music up, but whenever I've been there it's loud. Which is a shame, because otherwise it's a really cool little place. Having to shout to my friends is the only thing that stops me from going there more often.
The atmosphere is good, the bar is usually busy, and it's rare to see someone not having fun. There's plenty of tables and so on, a stage, and a football table - which is a lovely addition to any bar, I'm all up for pool and quiz machines, but you don't get to play table football so often, and it's nice to have it. Also, there's a dance floor of sorts, though I've only seen it properly used twice, usually it's got more tables on it.
Of course, you don't go to Monty's to play table football. You probably don't go for the music, because even hardcore rock fans will find some sub-genre within rock that they can't abide, and you can guarantee that they'll play that sub-genre at some point. Oh, and the TV screens always seem to be showing Scuzz, the music videos don't match the music playing, which can be hilarious in itself, but really, no one actually wants to watch Scuzz.
So the reason you go? The cocktails. The list is one of the most extensive I've seen, it's certainly the best in Harrogate (the only other place I know of specialising in cocktails is Moko, and going to Moko always seems to be a great effort). They're even cheap and interesting enough to entice "real men" to try them.
Even more special, is the fact that before 9pm cocktails are buy one get one free. The best way to take advantage of this is like so:
1. Choose a friend with good taste.
2. Say that you'll give them your second cocktail, if they give you theirs.
3. Order a cocktail each.
4. Get a free cocktail, identical to the one you ordered.
5. Swap your free one with your friend.
6. Enjoy.
So, in spite of the loud (and occasionally dreadful) music, Monty's is a lot of fun. It's really unusual that you don't have a giggle there. The cocktails alone keep it interesting enough that if you're out in Harrogate, it would be a shame not to stop there for a drink at some point.
For: Cocktails
With: Friends
Site: Here
Well, first of all, it's not a jazz bar. At least it isn't any more, maybe it used to be once. These days they play rock, and it's variations, from classic rock, to punk, to metal, to emo, and everything in between. Occasionally they have live bands, though I've never gone there to see one.
They do play the music very loud as well. I'm not sure if they're open during the day, or at what time they turn the music up, but whenever I've been there it's loud. Which is a shame, because otherwise it's a really cool little place. Having to shout to my friends is the only thing that stops me from going there more often.
The atmosphere is good, the bar is usually busy, and it's rare to see someone not having fun. There's plenty of tables and so on, a stage, and a football table - which is a lovely addition to any bar, I'm all up for pool and quiz machines, but you don't get to play table football so often, and it's nice to have it. Also, there's a dance floor of sorts, though I've only seen it properly used twice, usually it's got more tables on it.
Of course, you don't go to Monty's to play table football. You probably don't go for the music, because even hardcore rock fans will find some sub-genre within rock that they can't abide, and you can guarantee that they'll play that sub-genre at some point. Oh, and the TV screens always seem to be showing Scuzz, the music videos don't match the music playing, which can be hilarious in itself, but really, no one actually wants to watch Scuzz.
So the reason you go? The cocktails. The list is one of the most extensive I've seen, it's certainly the best in Harrogate (the only other place I know of specialising in cocktails is Moko, and going to Moko always seems to be a great effort). They're even cheap and interesting enough to entice "real men" to try them.
Even more special, is the fact that before 9pm cocktails are buy one get one free. The best way to take advantage of this is like so:
1. Choose a friend with good taste.
2. Say that you'll give them your second cocktail, if they give you theirs.
3. Order a cocktail each.
4. Get a free cocktail, identical to the one you ordered.
5. Swap your free one with your friend.
6. Enjoy.
So, in spite of the loud (and occasionally dreadful) music, Monty's is a lot of fun. It's really unusual that you don't have a giggle there. The cocktails alone keep it interesting enough that if you're out in Harrogate, it would be a shame not to stop there for a drink at some point.
Wednesday 26 August 2009
Las Iguanas (Leeds)
What: Restaurant
For: Lunch
With: Nick
Site: Here
I've been going to Las Iguanas for years now, and it's still ice cool. I'm a big fan of Mexican food, and whilst this is technically a Latin restaurant, it more than caters for my tastes.
The restaurant has a somewhat unusual layout, with a main area, and two slightly raised areas for eating at, and a screened off bar. I must admit that it would seem odd to go to Las Iguanas for the bar alone, but it seems popular enough.
On this occasion I ordered champinones for my starter and enchilada for my main. They make slight changes to the menu on a regular basis, but I've never ordered anything that wasn't delicious, and I've tried a good range of what they have to offer.
The food did not disappoint on this occasion. If I was to recommend something to someone visiting for the first time, I'd suggest the crayfish cocktail, the Buenos Aires burger (Argentinian beef is better than Scottish, even Aberdeen Angus pales in comparison) and an Ipanema Mess (which is like an Eton Mess, but with guava).
I'd also suggest that you try their coolers, specifically the passion fruit one. The elderflower one isn't available anymore, but if they ever bring it back, it's the only thing I'd suggest that you avoid in this place.
Oh, and I'm not suggesting that you shouldn't get a real drink, if you're inclined to do so you certainly should! Caipirinhas are the Brazilian answer to Mojitos, and quite delightful. They're made with cachaca instead of rum, and are well worth trying, especially considering that they don't appear on menus all that often.
Honestly, I'm sad that there isn't much more for me to say. But it's hard to write much when there isn't much to criticise. Food is excellent and arrives promptly, staff are friendly and helpful (just ask if you're not sure about anything on the menu), atmosphere is good, drinks are interesting.
The only con is that because it has become such a firm favourite, I tend to fall back on it so regularly that I occasionally feel guilty for neglecting to try new places. If you're in Leeds, and you get the opportunity go and check it out. The lunch menu and the tapas are inexpensive, and the mains menu is quite reasonable too. Also, if you sign up to their email list they will regularly send you offers (e.g. £5 off, or 20% off total bill, etc).
It's hidden away behind the Corn Exchange, but it's not hard to find. Go look for it.
For: Lunch
With: Nick
Site: Here
I've been going to Las Iguanas for years now, and it's still ice cool. I'm a big fan of Mexican food, and whilst this is technically a Latin restaurant, it more than caters for my tastes.
The restaurant has a somewhat unusual layout, with a main area, and two slightly raised areas for eating at, and a screened off bar. I must admit that it would seem odd to go to Las Iguanas for the bar alone, but it seems popular enough.
On this occasion I ordered champinones for my starter and enchilada for my main. They make slight changes to the menu on a regular basis, but I've never ordered anything that wasn't delicious, and I've tried a good range of what they have to offer.
The food did not disappoint on this occasion. If I was to recommend something to someone visiting for the first time, I'd suggest the crayfish cocktail, the Buenos Aires burger (Argentinian beef is better than Scottish, even Aberdeen Angus pales in comparison) and an Ipanema Mess (which is like an Eton Mess, but with guava).
I'd also suggest that you try their coolers, specifically the passion fruit one. The elderflower one isn't available anymore, but if they ever bring it back, it's the only thing I'd suggest that you avoid in this place.
Oh, and I'm not suggesting that you shouldn't get a real drink, if you're inclined to do so you certainly should! Caipirinhas are the Brazilian answer to Mojitos, and quite delightful. They're made with cachaca instead of rum, and are well worth trying, especially considering that they don't appear on menus all that often.
Honestly, I'm sad that there isn't much more for me to say. But it's hard to write much when there isn't much to criticise. Food is excellent and arrives promptly, staff are friendly and helpful (just ask if you're not sure about anything on the menu), atmosphere is good, drinks are interesting.
The only con is that because it has become such a firm favourite, I tend to fall back on it so regularly that I occasionally feel guilty for neglecting to try new places. If you're in Leeds, and you get the opportunity go and check it out. The lunch menu and the tapas are inexpensive, and the mains menu is quite reasonable too. Also, if you sign up to their email list they will regularly send you offers (e.g. £5 off, or 20% off total bill, etc).
It's hidden away behind the Corn Exchange, but it's not hard to find. Go look for it.
Tuesday 25 August 2009
Peckham's (Merchant City)
What: Delicatessen (and more!)
For: A gift for a friend
With: Money and a big basket
Site: Here
Alright, I admit it, I'm kind of a junkie for Peckham's. The love affair started last year when I wandered into the Merchant City branch with some friends, for no reason other than wondering why a delicatessen needs to stay open until 10pm. When we asked, the staff replied "just in case."
So, they have the right attitude. Whilst we were there we also noted that they had an interested selection of wines, beers, spirits and liqueurs. We exercised control, only buying one bottle of rum (Havana 3 year, old habits die hard), one bottle of wine (Chilean sauvignon blanc, see previous parenthesis) and a cheese (pont le vec*).
Since then, we've returned many times. Usually for rum or wine, occasionally for cheese, chorizo, and other delicious little treats that work well with crackers and wine. During the exam period I visited the Byre's Road branch often to buy sandwiches and coffee, having discovered that both were far superior to those which the University catering offer.
Interesting the coffee is better than Starbucks, although I must admit being rather biased and anti-Starbucks here (also, they don't sell those ridiculous iced-mocha-berry-frappes with whipped cream and three ounces of sugar, which people buy because they don't like coffee. This is a good thing). The sandwiches are better than those in Marks and Spencer too, and it is very important to note, that to say Peckham's is more expensive than the obvious alternatives is a lie.
Anyway, on this occasion I was shopping for a gift. I wanted a hamper for my flatmate's birthday. He's got a sweet tooth, but doesn't drink coffee, tea, or whisky. Unfortunately this meant that all the pre-made hampers were unacceptable. So, they let me make up my own!
I was naturally filled with glee - I chose a hamper, and wandered around picking up interesting preserves, organic chocolate spread, miniature bars of luxury chocolate, Prosecco, and other cute little things. Then the girl filled the hamper with straw (because otherwise it'd look cheap, obviously) and arranged the items for me in a presentable fashion.
Yes, it was an expensive gift, but it was a joint gift with a friend, so that's fine. And yes, he loved it. What's more, I loved shopping for it. Hence, the love affair with Peckham's will continue for a while, nothing can come between us.
*Pont le vec is to Camembert as Camembert is to brie. It's easy to think of it as the heroin of soft French cheeses. It's a good idea not to mention this whilst shopping for it, as the guy in the queue ahead of you may turn out to be insane, and will probably exclaim "heroin!" At the top of his lungs. Not cool.
For: A gift for a friend
With: Money and a big basket
Site: Here
Alright, I admit it, I'm kind of a junkie for Peckham's. The love affair started last year when I wandered into the Merchant City branch with some friends, for no reason other than wondering why a delicatessen needs to stay open until 10pm. When we asked, the staff replied "just in case."
So, they have the right attitude. Whilst we were there we also noted that they had an interested selection of wines, beers, spirits and liqueurs. We exercised control, only buying one bottle of rum (Havana 3 year, old habits die hard), one bottle of wine (Chilean sauvignon blanc, see previous parenthesis) and a cheese (pont le vec*).
Since then, we've returned many times. Usually for rum or wine, occasionally for cheese, chorizo, and other delicious little treats that work well with crackers and wine. During the exam period I visited the Byre's Road branch often to buy sandwiches and coffee, having discovered that both were far superior to those which the University catering offer.
Interesting the coffee is better than Starbucks, although I must admit being rather biased and anti-Starbucks here (also, they don't sell those ridiculous iced-mocha-berry-frappes with whipped cream and three ounces of sugar, which people buy because they don't like coffee. This is a good thing). The sandwiches are better than those in Marks and Spencer too, and it is very important to note, that to say Peckham's is more expensive than the obvious alternatives is a lie.
Anyway, on this occasion I was shopping for a gift. I wanted a hamper for my flatmate's birthday. He's got a sweet tooth, but doesn't drink coffee, tea, or whisky. Unfortunately this meant that all the pre-made hampers were unacceptable. So, they let me make up my own!
I was naturally filled with glee - I chose a hamper, and wandered around picking up interesting preserves, organic chocolate spread, miniature bars of luxury chocolate, Prosecco, and other cute little things. Then the girl filled the hamper with straw (because otherwise it'd look cheap, obviously) and arranged the items for me in a presentable fashion.
Yes, it was an expensive gift, but it was a joint gift with a friend, so that's fine. And yes, he loved it. What's more, I loved shopping for it. Hence, the love affair with Peckham's will continue for a while, nothing can come between us.
*Pont le vec is to Camembert as Camembert is to brie. It's easy to think of it as the heroin of soft French cheeses. It's a good idea not to mention this whilst shopping for it, as the guy in the queue ahead of you may turn out to be insane, and will probably exclaim "heroin!" At the top of his lungs. Not cool.
Monday 24 August 2009
Radio (Ashton Lane)
What: Bar
For: Drinks
With: Friends
Site: Here
Goodness me! I seem to spend a lot of time eating and drinking in the West End! You must forgive me, I do usually live there. Also I'm a student, I can't help but think that this is a good enough excuse.
Radio is probably one of my favourite bars. I haven't tried the food, but I was always impressed with their drinks selection, the chilled our atmosphere, and the student-friendly prices. Really, though, I was only truly sold when I discovered that on Wednesdays they have a real student night, and drinks are only £1.
Usually, when you see somewhere advertising "£1 Drinks" you assume that your options will be; house vodka and mix, shot of apple sourz or a pint of something cheap. Everything else will be the usual price, possibly even more expensive than usual. Your best bet is actually to avoid this. Cheap vodka is truly dreadful, as will be whatever larger they have to offer. Sourz is sourz, at least it's brand name, but you can't drink shots of it all night. Or maybe you can, but you shouldn't, and I'm not taking you home.
At Radio though, they meant all drinks. All of them. Whatever you order. Well, actually, doubles are £2, which is fair, and they exclude cocktails and champagne, which is also fair. It's fair because it means that a Koppaburg is £1, Corona is £1, importantly, 7-year-old Havana Club and lemonade is £1. That means it's a good idea to go. That means it's a good deal, and you won't spend all evening wishing you could justify buying nicer vodka. Because you can.
So, all through Winter and Spring, Radio was my bar of choice for a Wednesday night. Sure, it would be crowded, but the seats were comfy when you finally got one, and the music was usually good enough for me to forgive the volume.
Over Summer though, I only visited once. I asked if they still did £1 drinks, the girl behind the bar confirmed this, and the listed the £1 options. I balked. I ordered a bottle beer that was worth more than £1. I looked at the vastly depleted bar. Gone was the Havana, gone was the Absolut, and gone were the interesting liqueurs. I could not see any expensive ciders. I was alarmed.
We left after one drink. In spite of the now limited choice, the bar was still very busy, the music wasn't good enough to keep me, and so I saw no reason to stay.
I suspect, and hope, that this was simply because it wasn't term-time. Maybe because fewer students are around it isn't worth running the student night with full enthusiasm. After all, you have a great turnover on a Wednesday, maybe make a loss, but the rest of the week, everyone is talking about how cool your bar is, they go, and don't mind paying full price. Without students, that won't happen.
And it is a cool bar, I will go again and pay full price. But only if they get their selection sorted out again, otherwise it'll just be another student bar. Cuter than some, but there would be no reason to stay there all night, there's plenty of other places to try close by.
So, because I love it lots, and because I love you lots, here's what I'm going to do: When term starts again, I shall drag a few friends there on a Wednesday night. We'll take the hit for you, we'll scope it out. If all is back to normal I'll write a new review, letting you know. It'll be hard to go there not knowing if I can drink something interesting cheaply, but I'll risk it, for you.
Wish me luck.
For: Drinks
With: Friends
Site: Here
Goodness me! I seem to spend a lot of time eating and drinking in the West End! You must forgive me, I do usually live there. Also I'm a student, I can't help but think that this is a good enough excuse.
Radio is probably one of my favourite bars. I haven't tried the food, but I was always impressed with their drinks selection, the chilled our atmosphere, and the student-friendly prices. Really, though, I was only truly sold when I discovered that on Wednesdays they have a real student night, and drinks are only £1.
Usually, when you see somewhere advertising "£1 Drinks" you assume that your options will be; house vodka and mix, shot of apple sourz or a pint of something cheap. Everything else will be the usual price, possibly even more expensive than usual. Your best bet is actually to avoid this. Cheap vodka is truly dreadful, as will be whatever larger they have to offer. Sourz is sourz, at least it's brand name, but you can't drink shots of it all night. Or maybe you can, but you shouldn't, and I'm not taking you home.
At Radio though, they meant all drinks. All of them. Whatever you order. Well, actually, doubles are £2, which is fair, and they exclude cocktails and champagne, which is also fair. It's fair because it means that a Koppaburg is £1, Corona is £1, importantly, 7-year-old Havana Club and lemonade is £1. That means it's a good idea to go. That means it's a good deal, and you won't spend all evening wishing you could justify buying nicer vodka. Because you can.
So, all through Winter and Spring, Radio was my bar of choice for a Wednesday night. Sure, it would be crowded, but the seats were comfy when you finally got one, and the music was usually good enough for me to forgive the volume.
Over Summer though, I only visited once. I asked if they still did £1 drinks, the girl behind the bar confirmed this, and the listed the £1 options. I balked. I ordered a bottle beer that was worth more than £1. I looked at the vastly depleted bar. Gone was the Havana, gone was the Absolut, and gone were the interesting liqueurs. I could not see any expensive ciders. I was alarmed.
We left after one drink. In spite of the now limited choice, the bar was still very busy, the music wasn't good enough to keep me, and so I saw no reason to stay.
I suspect, and hope, that this was simply because it wasn't term-time. Maybe because fewer students are around it isn't worth running the student night with full enthusiasm. After all, you have a great turnover on a Wednesday, maybe make a loss, but the rest of the week, everyone is talking about how cool your bar is, they go, and don't mind paying full price. Without students, that won't happen.
And it is a cool bar, I will go again and pay full price. But only if they get their selection sorted out again, otherwise it'll just be another student bar. Cuter than some, but there would be no reason to stay there all night, there's plenty of other places to try close by.
So, because I love it lots, and because I love you lots, here's what I'm going to do: When term starts again, I shall drag a few friends there on a Wednesday night. We'll take the hit for you, we'll scope it out. If all is back to normal I'll write a new review, letting you know. It'll be hard to go there not knowing if I can drink something interesting cheaply, but I'll risk it, for you.
Wish me luck.
Sunday 23 August 2009
Oran Mor (Byres Road)
What: Whatever You Want it to Be
For: Drinks
With: Friends
Site: Here
I'm told (read: I googled it) that Oran Mor is Gaelic for The Great Music. I have no idea if it's true or not, it seems roughly appropriate, but no more so than almost anything else would.
As mentioned above, Oran Mor is quite a cool place, and rather sizable. I avoided it for a long time, suspecting that it would be expensive. I've now visited the bar on a couple of occasions, and I've been to the second bar downstairs, that is used for hosting live music events. I still haven't tried the restaurant, nor indeed any of the other things it has to offer.
Last time I went it was for drinks. The bar is large, friendly and well lit, and doesn't insist upon playing music so loud that you and your friends can't hear each other speak (a pet hate of mine in bars, save the music for the clubs and the gigs).
It also boasts a wide range of spirits, especially whiskys. A good whisky selection isn't unusual in Glaswegian bars, but even as a non-whisky-drinker, I can't help thinking that they do have a collection to be proud of here. If I remember correctly they also serve some real ales, which I abhor, because I'm not 73. Or a man. They do have a good enough variety of rum to keep me happy though, so I won't complain about the drinks on offer.
Oddly, in spite of the above, I don't remember seeing a cocktail menu. Maybe I've simply forgotten, or we just didn't have one on our table. Cocktails are common in that part of the West End, and you sometimes can even get low quality cocktails even in your standard old man's pub (Tennents being a case in point).
To be honest though, I'm glad. In that setting it would be wrong, even perverse to be drinking mojitos and cosmopolitans. I think you'd get away with a Martini, but only just. It's not a bad thing that it doesn't work, it's just that it's the wrong atmosphere for it, and that's fine, just a little surprising.
I haven't tried the food. I've never been to their famous "A Play, a Pie and a Pint" evenings. I've only attended one gig, and that was technically hosted by The Mill, and as such doesn't count. So I can only really speak for the bar.
It's nice, but that's all. There's nothing wrong with it, in fact, I should probably like it a lot more than I do. I just can't seem to get that enthusiastic about the place. Maybe it's because I'm not sophisticated enough, but the drunk who came and talked to us about festivals seems to discount that theory. Maybe it's because I don't like whisky or ale - that's more feasible - but there's plenty on offer that I do like, and the prices aren't that high.
I suspect that it's because it's trying to suit too many people at once. It succeeds, it's very popular, and always busy, but frankly, it's just not interesting. Pleasant enough, and I'd never insist that we didn't go there, but I'd never suggest it either. It's just... nice. Surely that's not such a damning criticism? It really isn't meant to be one.
For: Drinks
With: Friends
Site: Here
I'm told (read: I googled it) that Oran Mor is Gaelic for The Great Music. I have no idea if it's true or not, it seems roughly appropriate, but no more so than almost anything else would.
As mentioned above, Oran Mor is quite a cool place, and rather sizable. I avoided it for a long time, suspecting that it would be expensive. I've now visited the bar on a couple of occasions, and I've been to the second bar downstairs, that is used for hosting live music events. I still haven't tried the restaurant, nor indeed any of the other things it has to offer.
Last time I went it was for drinks. The bar is large, friendly and well lit, and doesn't insist upon playing music so loud that you and your friends can't hear each other speak (a pet hate of mine in bars, save the music for the clubs and the gigs).
It also boasts a wide range of spirits, especially whiskys. A good whisky selection isn't unusual in Glaswegian bars, but even as a non-whisky-drinker, I can't help thinking that they do have a collection to be proud of here. If I remember correctly they also serve some real ales, which I abhor, because I'm not 73. Or a man. They do have a good enough variety of rum to keep me happy though, so I won't complain about the drinks on offer.
Oddly, in spite of the above, I don't remember seeing a cocktail menu. Maybe I've simply forgotten, or we just didn't have one on our table. Cocktails are common in that part of the West End, and you sometimes can even get low quality cocktails even in your standard old man's pub (Tennents being a case in point).
To be honest though, I'm glad. In that setting it would be wrong, even perverse to be drinking mojitos and cosmopolitans. I think you'd get away with a Martini, but only just. It's not a bad thing that it doesn't work, it's just that it's the wrong atmosphere for it, and that's fine, just a little surprising.
I haven't tried the food. I've never been to their famous "A Play, a Pie and a Pint" evenings. I've only attended one gig, and that was technically hosted by The Mill, and as such doesn't count. So I can only really speak for the bar.
It's nice, but that's all. There's nothing wrong with it, in fact, I should probably like it a lot more than I do. I just can't seem to get that enthusiastic about the place. Maybe it's because I'm not sophisticated enough, but the drunk who came and talked to us about festivals seems to discount that theory. Maybe it's because I don't like whisky or ale - that's more feasible - but there's plenty on offer that I do like, and the prices aren't that high.
I suspect that it's because it's trying to suit too many people at once. It succeeds, it's very popular, and always busy, but frankly, it's just not interesting. Pleasant enough, and I'd never insist that we didn't go there, but I'd never suggest it either. It's just... nice. Surely that's not such a damning criticism? It really isn't meant to be one.
Saturday 22 August 2009
Brel (Ashton Lane)
What: Bar/Restaurant
For: Dinner
With: Friend
Site: Here
I must have wandered past Brel a hundred times, and I've probably thought "I should try that place some time" at least 20 of those times. As usual, I'm drawn by the cheap lunch offers I've seen them advertising, on this occasion though, I actually went for dinner.
We'd decided that we wanted to eat out, but not dress up, so the West End seemed like a good plan, and Ashton Lane was probably the best choice, since we're students, and as such looked student-y. In Ashton Lane, this means you look like you belong there.
My student-y tendencies meant that I was uninterested in the concept of parting with more of my cash than I had to. We had not at this point decided where to go, and it was getting a little late, so I looked on 5pm.co.uk for places in the West End that had offers. Brel had a set "5pm Special Menu." It was inexpensive, and they still had tables available, so we went for it.
We were seated at a small table in the corner, but felt in no way that we had been pushed to one side. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the clientele were clearly enjoying themselves. This is another place with an extensive beer list, we were handed the 5pm menu and a beer menu (note no wine, the website tells me they do serve wine, but I couldn't find it. Soft drinks and the odd cider were available, though).
Since the offer was for a two courses for a set price, we agreed to share a starter and a desert, and get a main each. It's a system that works well for me. After ordering our interesting beers (I think mine was called Barbar or something, it was good; sweet and orange-y) we ordered some mussels to start.
I like mussels, though they might be something of an acquired taste, and I have to say, if you'd like to acquire it, there are worse places than Brel to try. It turns out that they're quite proud of them, and rightly so. Ours were served in a garlic and white wine sauce, and were very moreish. I would happily have ordered the main-size portion on another occasion.
For main I chose the pork loin, and Euan chose the sausages. To me his dish looked like glorified bangers and mash, which he confirmed that it was, but that didn't seem to put him off. I suspect that it was in fact one of the lesser options on the menu. The pork loin was delightful though, tender enough that I almost felt sorry for it. I don't order pork often, but I can't criticise it here at all.
Finally we shared the Belgian waffle, and I finally realised that it was a Belgian restaurant. The beers had not been enough of a clue for me, it seems. The portion sizes had been huge, and we were both, technically, quite full. However, as you know, desert goes in a different space in the human stomach (basic anatomy) so we struggled on.
Euan felt it was the best dish, I am forced to disagree - it was good, and in fact ideal to follow what I'd already eaten, but I'm not much of a sweet tooth, and I felt it paled a little when compared to both the pork and the mussels. I don't regret ordering it, but it wasn't quite that spectacular.
I've heard bad things about their lunch options, which is a shame, because I've now looked at the menus on the website, and have found that it's actually a little pricey there. I know that I didn't pay anywhere near that much, and while it was excellent, unless it was a special occasion my student budget would make a revisit prohibitive.
My suggestion if you'd like to go would be to look on 5pm.co.uk, like I did, and try to find an offer. Do go though, because the usually high prices of the food are high for a good reason, there's no question that the quality of the food is quite excellent.
Oh, and if you were there for the rum tasting night that they were doing the evening I left Glasgow (18th August) tell me all about it, and I'll do my best not to murder you out of jealousy. I hope they do another.
For: Dinner
With: Friend
Site: Here
I must have wandered past Brel a hundred times, and I've probably thought "I should try that place some time" at least 20 of those times. As usual, I'm drawn by the cheap lunch offers I've seen them advertising, on this occasion though, I actually went for dinner.
We'd decided that we wanted to eat out, but not dress up, so the West End seemed like a good plan, and Ashton Lane was probably the best choice, since we're students, and as such looked student-y. In Ashton Lane, this means you look like you belong there.
My student-y tendencies meant that I was uninterested in the concept of parting with more of my cash than I had to. We had not at this point decided where to go, and it was getting a little late, so I looked on 5pm.co.uk for places in the West End that had offers. Brel had a set "5pm Special Menu." It was inexpensive, and they still had tables available, so we went for it.
We were seated at a small table in the corner, but felt in no way that we had been pushed to one side. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the clientele were clearly enjoying themselves. This is another place with an extensive beer list, we were handed the 5pm menu and a beer menu (note no wine, the website tells me they do serve wine, but I couldn't find it. Soft drinks and the odd cider were available, though).
Since the offer was for a two courses for a set price, we agreed to share a starter and a desert, and get a main each. It's a system that works well for me. After ordering our interesting beers (I think mine was called Barbar or something, it was good; sweet and orange-y) we ordered some mussels to start.
I like mussels, though they might be something of an acquired taste, and I have to say, if you'd like to acquire it, there are worse places than Brel to try. It turns out that they're quite proud of them, and rightly so. Ours were served in a garlic and white wine sauce, and were very moreish. I would happily have ordered the main-size portion on another occasion.
For main I chose the pork loin, and Euan chose the sausages. To me his dish looked like glorified bangers and mash, which he confirmed that it was, but that didn't seem to put him off. I suspect that it was in fact one of the lesser options on the menu. The pork loin was delightful though, tender enough that I almost felt sorry for it. I don't order pork often, but I can't criticise it here at all.
Finally we shared the Belgian waffle, and I finally realised that it was a Belgian restaurant. The beers had not been enough of a clue for me, it seems. The portion sizes had been huge, and we were both, technically, quite full. However, as you know, desert goes in a different space in the human stomach (basic anatomy) so we struggled on.
Euan felt it was the best dish, I am forced to disagree - it was good, and in fact ideal to follow what I'd already eaten, but I'm not much of a sweet tooth, and I felt it paled a little when compared to both the pork and the mussels. I don't regret ordering it, but it wasn't quite that spectacular.
I've heard bad things about their lunch options, which is a shame, because I've now looked at the menus on the website, and have found that it's actually a little pricey there. I know that I didn't pay anywhere near that much, and while it was excellent, unless it was a special occasion my student budget would make a revisit prohibitive.
My suggestion if you'd like to go would be to look on 5pm.co.uk, like I did, and try to find an offer. Do go though, because the usually high prices of the food are high for a good reason, there's no question that the quality of the food is quite excellent.
Oh, and if you were there for the rum tasting night that they were doing the evening I left Glasgow (18th August) tell me all about it, and I'll do my best not to murder you out of jealousy. I hope they do another.
Friday 21 August 2009
Republic Bier Halle (Great Western Road)
What: Bar
For: Lunch
With: Friend
Site: Here
It's not the first time I've visited this place, and I severely doubt it'll be the last. The problem is, they have 2-for-1 pizzas, lunch deals on soups and sandwiches, and an impressive list of beers - most of which I can't pronounce.
I guiltily tottered along for lunch with a friend a few weeks ago, as a nice break from some work. The range of pizzas is original enough for me to want to try them all, but unfortunately I'm predictable enough to stick to a select few from the choice of around ten. Usually my choice involves chicken, chorizo or goat's cheese. However, having tried slices of other peoples, I can tell you with confidence that if they sell any bad pizzas, they've never sold one to me, nor to anyone I know.
The sandwiches are somewhat less inspired. That isn't to say they aren't good, just that they're nothing special. With the vast selection of eateries in Glasgow, and the extreme concentration in the West End alone, if you went to Bier Halle for a sandwich, you would have wasted a lot of opportunities.
That's not to say don't go, only, get a pizza instead if you're hungry. Or perhaps one of the "bar snacks." For once, I must admit I haven't tried a single one, not even the nachos that they will inevitably offer, but I wouldn't be afraid to do so.
Of course, the real star of the show is the beer menu. Boasting over 60 beers from around the world (and I'm told the town centre branches offer even more) it's almost guaranteed that there will be something you've never tried or even heard of. Especially if, like me, you're not really a beer-drinker.
However, should this be the case, I urge you not to be sheepish, and to try something new anyway. Unless you really do hate beer, there's probably a bottle of something that will be to your tastes. They may be somewhat pricey, but here you're paying for the novelty, as well as the privilege of drinking something that isn't Carling.
So far I've tried;
- Quilmes: Argentian, not bad, light and easy for someone who hasn't tried many beers before.
- Framboise Bier: Belgian, and raspberry flavoured, refreshing, but possibly the Belgian answer to the alcopop.
- Crocodile: Swedish, not Australian, and I have no idea how it tasted, I was too amused by the crocodile logo on the bottle to remember anything else.
So my suggestion is that you go. Comfort yourself about the high beer prices by reminding yourself that the pizzas are two-for-one, and relax for and hour or so. It'll be well worth your time.
P.S. My spell-checker thinks that "alcopop" is wrong, and that I probably meant "ogliopoly." Maybe it needs a hyphon or something, but I don't care, I'm too busy laughing at the word "ogliopoly."
For: Lunch
With: Friend
Site: Here
It's not the first time I've visited this place, and I severely doubt it'll be the last. The problem is, they have 2-for-1 pizzas, lunch deals on soups and sandwiches, and an impressive list of beers - most of which I can't pronounce.
I guiltily tottered along for lunch with a friend a few weeks ago, as a nice break from some work. The range of pizzas is original enough for me to want to try them all, but unfortunately I'm predictable enough to stick to a select few from the choice of around ten. Usually my choice involves chicken, chorizo or goat's cheese. However, having tried slices of other peoples, I can tell you with confidence that if they sell any bad pizzas, they've never sold one to me, nor to anyone I know.
The sandwiches are somewhat less inspired. That isn't to say they aren't good, just that they're nothing special. With the vast selection of eateries in Glasgow, and the extreme concentration in the West End alone, if you went to Bier Halle for a sandwich, you would have wasted a lot of opportunities.
That's not to say don't go, only, get a pizza instead if you're hungry. Or perhaps one of the "bar snacks." For once, I must admit I haven't tried a single one, not even the nachos that they will inevitably offer, but I wouldn't be afraid to do so.
Of course, the real star of the show is the beer menu. Boasting over 60 beers from around the world (and I'm told the town centre branches offer even more) it's almost guaranteed that there will be something you've never tried or even heard of. Especially if, like me, you're not really a beer-drinker.
However, should this be the case, I urge you not to be sheepish, and to try something new anyway. Unless you really do hate beer, there's probably a bottle of something that will be to your tastes. They may be somewhat pricey, but here you're paying for the novelty, as well as the privilege of drinking something that isn't Carling.
So far I've tried;
- Quilmes: Argentian, not bad, light and easy for someone who hasn't tried many beers before.
- Framboise Bier: Belgian, and raspberry flavoured, refreshing, but possibly the Belgian answer to the alcopop.
- Crocodile: Swedish, not Australian, and I have no idea how it tasted, I was too amused by the crocodile logo on the bottle to remember anything else.
So my suggestion is that you go. Comfort yourself about the high beer prices by reminding yourself that the pizzas are two-for-one, and relax for and hour or so. It'll be well worth your time.
P.S. My spell-checker thinks that "alcopop" is wrong, and that I probably meant "ogliopoly." Maybe it needs a hyphon or something, but I don't care, I'm too busy laughing at the word "ogliopoly."
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