Reviewed by Amy Glasgow @theglasgowdiet
We’re extremely lucky in Glasgow that in the West End alone, there are so many incredible eateries to choose from. So much so that actually choosing where to dine can be quite overwhelming. Which ones are good? Which ones will let you down? I’m here to help! Each month, I’ll bring you my top five spots for a specific category or type of cuisine. This time, we’re talking a British classic: the Sunday roast! Here are five places you can get a quality roast in Glasgow’s West End.
HOOLIGAN
One of the newest kids on the block, Hooligan has recently introduced their own Sunday Tasting Menu, and it is an absolute treat at just £30 per person. The meal starts with a selection of small plates like confit leeks with gordal olive tapenade, cod roe emulsion with radish and crackers, and fresh focaccia and miso butter.
Onto the main event, where you have a choice of Roust Poussin for two, or 48hr bef picanha, which is what I opted for. It was absolutely divine – the meat so tender and full of flavour – paired with hasselback potatoes, roast tenderstem broccoli, braised carrots and red cabbage.
The meal is finished with a dessert that is right up my street, so much so I could have eaten it twice. A chocolate cremeaux with hazelnut praline mousse, hazelnut dacquoise and roast hazelnuts. A nutella lover’s dream!
There are vegetarian options available as well, and an incredible selection of natural and organic wines, which can be paired with your meal for £25.
PORTER & RYE
No one knows beef like the folks at Porter & Rye, so it’s no surprise that they do a quality Sunday roast. Every single part of the roast is given a boost of flavour, from the beef dripping yorkshire puddings to the bone marrow gravy. Think blushing roast beef and tender braised ox cheek alongside honey glazed carrots, charred shallot and buttered tenderstem, creamed cabbage with smoked pancetta and crispy beef dripping and rosemary roasted potatoes.
At just £25 per person, it’s good value too. Especially given the quality of the meat, which is all aged in-house to achieve peak levels of delicate textures and deep flavours. What more could you want on a lazy Sunday afternoon?
THE LOVEABLE ROGUE
Since it took over the venue on Great Western Road, The Loveable Rogue has made a name for itself with its flavourful dishes and varied menu. They’ve even introduced a seasonal tasting menu, and their roasts have continued to gain praise.
Alongside their roast beef, The Loveable Rogue serves up brisket mac & cheese, beef fat garlic roasties, honey root veg, yorkies, vegetable ecrase and red wine gravy. If, for some bizarre reason, you don’t fancy the roast, their a la carte menu is also available. I recommend booking in advance as it tends to get busy!
BUTCHERSHOP BAR & GRILL
This West End institution and sister to The Spanish Butcher has been a favourite among locals for years. Their Sunday Roast menu is great value as well, just £25 for three courses. Start your meal with chorizo and beef meatballs or Scottish smoked salmon, then move on to one of their incredible roast options.
Next up, choose between sliced sirloin of borders beef, or try something different and go with the grilled bone-in Ayrshire pork chop and Bramley apple sauce. Or, if you want to step things up, try one of their sharing roasts: rump, chateaubriand or tomahawk. These vary in price and availablity, but they are definitely worth it if you fancy treating yourself.
Finish your meal off in style with a classic sticky toffee pudding, creme brulee, strawberry and vanilla cheesecake or a selection of cheese. If you have room, that is!
THE DRAKE
Known for its classic pub grub and welcoming atmosphere, The Drake is the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a busy week. If you’re a sports fan, there are plenty of TVS for watching live games, and as well as a selection of beer and wine on tap, they also make some quality cocktails. When it’s cold outside, which, let’s face it, it will be for the foreseeable future, the pub has a log fire to keep you toasty.
The Drake also has one of the most varied roast menus, with a choice of roast rack of pork, roast striploin of beef, leg of lamb, or salt baked celeriac, all served with the usual trimmings. Grab it on its own for £16 or add a starter and a dessert for £23 – a bargain if you ask me!
Is your favourite west end roast on the list? Think we’ve missed somewhere? Let us know! Head over to our Instagram page and tell us your thoughts @westendermagazine.
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