Is there anything better than sitting in a beer garden with a cold drink on a hot Glasgow summer day?
Not that we get that many of them here, so it’s always best to make the most of them. On this particular sunny Saturday, I headed to Gael & Grain on Sandyford Place. A relative newcomer to the West End, this Scottish pub and kitchen focuses on celebrating Scotland’s rich culinary heritage, with a unique twist on classic dishes.
Their main menu boasts a host of Scottish classics: from Haggis, Neeps and Tatties to traditional Cullen Skink. From good old Fish and Chips, to some more modern interpretations, like Haggis Pakora, Haggis Tikka Masala and more.
Off to a Good Start
With it being a gloriously sunny day, I decided to kick off my meal with a French Martini and a starter of crispy fried chicken in a Scottish local honey and sriracha glaze. This dish was a beautiful balance of sweet and spicy, with floral notes from the local honey and chicken that was crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
I deliberated long and hard about what to have for my main, with so many delicious-sounding classics on offer, but with the sun beating down on me, I realised there was one thing I was really craving: an 8oz Scottish Ribeye Steak.
The Main Event
Served with a choice of sauces (I went for peppercorn), thick cut chips and a rocket and Grana Padano salad, my steak came perfectly cooked – a blushing pink and juicy medium rare, with a perfect griddle sear on the outside. The chips were fluffy and light with a gentle crunch to them and the salad added some freshness to the plate. My only criticism would be the peppercorn sauce. It was very thick and lacking in peppery hit. I probably should have gone for the garlic butter – a much better fit for a warm day.
If I had room after that feast, I would have sampled their signature dessert: Gael & Grain’s Jammy Dodger. Shortbread rounds filled with cranachan cream and a raspberry drizzle. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
I think come the darker, colder days, this cosy but modern Scottish pub will be the perfect place to warm up. With a glass of something wet and a hearty and homemade Steak Pie – or maybe next time I’ll brave their Haggis Tikka Masala…?
Gael & Grain
23 Sandyford Place G3 7NG
gaelandgrain.com
0141 339 9993
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