I have a checklist from coffee spots to cocktail bars. Whether you’re meeting friends, heading out on a date or simply fancy a little treat, these are my favourite spots – find them on the Westender App.
By Eva Curran
The Belle
If I had to choose one West End bar to recommend, it would have to be The Belle. Dimly lit, windows that are permanently steamed up, and in winter, a roaring fire that makes it almost impossible to leave. It’s cosy in all the right ways.
Finding a seat can be a challenge, but somehow that’s all part of its charm. Come summer, the benches outside are packed with students, locals and post-work crowds making the most of a sunny evening.
It’s one of the more affordable bars on this list too, making it dangerously easy to become your local. With board games, local magazines (including this one) and simple bar snacks, The Belle feels less like a bar and more like a little pocket of the West End community.
617 Great Western Road, G12 8HX
Kelvingrove Café
In the heart of Finnieston, we have Kelvingrove Café. The beautifully restored interior blends old-school charm with a modern feel, creating somewhere that feels equally suited to a casual midweek drink or a special celebration.
The cocktail menu is full of expertly made classics alongside seasonal creations, while the lively atmosphere means there’s always a buzz without it ever feeling overwhelming. If you’re spending an evening in the West End, it’s a brilliant place to start, or finish, the night.
1161 Argyle Street, G3 8TB
Focaccia
Just a stone’s throw away from the University of Glasgow, you’ll find the cool, urban exterior of Focaccia. Step inside and you may be lucky enough to be greeted by Ersan, the owner. In true Glaswegian style, he always serves with a smile and never fails to ask how your day is going.
It’s the kind of service that keeps you coming back. And the food guarantees it. With a display full of freshly baked cakes, pastries, and of course, the focaccia that gives the spot its name.
The sandwiches are generously filled, the coffee is consistently brilliant, and the cakes are some of the best I’ve had in the West End. It might feel like a hidden gem on Bank Street but come lunchtime you’ll quickly realise the secret’s out. Students spill onto the pavement, and on a sunny day the outdoor tables become one of the best spots to soak in the sun.
47 Bank Street, G12 8NE
Naked Soup
There’s something to be said for places that keep things simple and do them exceptionally well. Naked Soup is exactly that.
If I have friends visiting Glasgow, it’s one of the first places I take them. A true West End staple, it’s long been a favourite for students looking for an affordable lunch that doesn’t compromise on quality.
The interiors somehow transport you to a sunny European café, especially when the windows are thrown open and people perch on the counter seats watching the world pass by. Their homemade soups are the star of the show, served alongside generously filled bagels, but I’d always recommend sticking with the classic soup and focaccia combo.
The queue can look lengthy, but don’t be put off – it moves surprisingly quickly. And if you find yourself wandering by in the evening, it’s also a brilliant spot for a cocktail.
6 Kersland Street, G12 8BL
Sears Pizza
Maybe you’ve had back-to-back classes. Or you’re in need of a quick bite to get you through various assignments. Perhaps you are just in the mood for a really, really good slice of pizza.
That’s where Sears Pizza comes in. Their New York-style slices start from just £2, making it one of the best-value lunches in the West End. And if that isn’t enough to convince you, they serve Irn-Bru on tap. Get involved.
8 Chancellor Street, G11 5RQ
The Ottoman Coffeehouse
This one hardly needs an introduction. Recently crowned the number one coffee shop in the UK and sixth best in Europe, The Ottoman Coffeehouse has earned a reputation that reaches far beyond Glasgow.
Thankfully, it more than lives up to the hype. Warm, welcoming and effortlessly cosy, it’s the kind of place that takes coffee seriously without ever feeling intimidating.
Despite gaining a huge amount of attraction in recent years, it maintains the charm of a hidden gem. If it’s not already on your list, it definitely should be.
73 Berkeley Street, Glasgow, G3 7DX
Paragon
If you’ve walked along Great Western Road, you’ve probably passed Paragon without even realising that not only is it a gorgeous coffee shop, but it doubles as a barbershop.
Look out for the beautiful chess boards in the window and you’ll know you’ve found it. It’s become a firm favourite among West End locals thanks to its effortlessly cool interiors and relaxed atmosphere.
Whether you’re studying solo or catching up with a friend over coffee, it’s one of those cafés that feels quietly tucked away despite sitting right in the middle of the West End.
685 Great Western Road, G12 8RA
A Stone’s Throw From the West End
Through the House
One of the newest additions to Glasgow’s coffee scene, Through the House has quickly become one of its coolest.
The moment you walk in, it feels effortlessly stylish. Relaxed interiors, a record spinning in the background, and genuinely brilliant coffee makes it somewhere you’ll happily lose a couple of hours.
Keep an eye on their Instagram too, as they regularly host everything from live music and mindfulness sessions to record launches, making it much more than just a coffee shop.
15 High Street, G1 1LX
Zennor
Hidden away in Glasgow’s East End, Zennor is one of those places you’ll want to tell everyone about while simultaneously hoping it stays your little secret.
It also serves, without exaggeration, the best matcha I’ve ever had. And before anyone questions my credentials, I have recently come back from living in Japan. Their banana and miso iced matcha is unbelievable and worth the journey on its own.
The café itself is calm, bright and filled with natural light, plants and open seating, making it an ideal place to settle in with your laptop for a few hours.
354 Duke Street, G31 1RB
Henry’s
Moving onto the other side of the Clyde, we have the gorgeous Henry’s. Dog-friendly and walk-in only, it follows the seemingly essential framework for a modern bar in Glasgow.
It’s a relaxed, neighbourhood vibe that makes you feel welcome to sit and chat for hours. Paired with a delicious food menu, it truly is a spot that you can comfortably stay in for the evening.
The atmosphere feels faintly Parisian with large globe lights, but remains very dimly lit. Are you picking up on a theme here? With innovative cocktails, delicious food, and great music. It’s worth a visit to see for yourself.
5 Abbot Street, G41 3XE
The Last Bookstore
This book-shop themed bar is one of the most unique spots in the city. With an archway made of hardbacks, a cocktail menu inspired by famous authors and literary classics, and walls lined with books, literally 8,000 of them, they have struck the balance of having an immersive theme, without feeling gimmicky.
No modern bar is complete without a great menu of small plates, and The Last Bookstore delivers.
Before you leave, make a note of their sister bar, Tabac. It’s the place that is responsible for converting me into a margarita drinker, which is a huge claim.
157 Hope Street, G2 2UQ
Bramble
If you’re venturing over to explore the Southside, start your day at Bramble.
My biggest piece of advice? Get there early, put your name down, and then go for a wander while you wait. No matter what time you arrive, there’s usually a queue, and that’s always a good sign.
Every dish that comes out of the kitchen looks as good as the last, fresh, colourful and packed with flavour. It’s the kind of brunch that makes the journey across the river completely worthwhile, and one you’ll find yourself recommending to everyone afterwards.
924 Pollokshaws Road, G41 2ET
Outlier
Every now and then, a café is worth crossing the city for, and Outlier is exactly that.
Even if you live in the West End, you’ll happily jump on the Subway to St Enoch just for one of their toasties. Pair it with one of their specialty coffees, try your very best to resist the pastries (you won’t), and you’ve got the perfect excuse for a catch-up with friends.
The space itself is bright, relaxed and effortlessly cool. A perfect Sunday reset after a long week of lectures.
38 London Road, G1 5NB
Godshot Studio
If you’ve spent any time on Instagram recently, chances are you’ve already seen Godshot Studio without realising it.
This Southside favourite has become known for pairing exceptional specialty coffee with a beautifully curated lifestyle store full of design-led gifts, books and homeware. It’s creative, modern, and full of inspiration.
Make a morning of it by wandering around Queen’s Park before rewarding yourself with one of their handcrafted coffees.
1143 Pollokshaws Road, G41 3YH
