Today we’re talking Italian…
By Amy Glasgow
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. Today we’re talking Italian. Where can you find the best pizza and pasta? Here are my top picks…
Home to some of the best Italian food in Glasgow, in my opinion, Eusebi Deli is always at the top of my list when it comes to restaurant recommendations. While you can always find the classic ‘Yesterday’s Lasagne’ on the menu, what makes Eusebi’s different is its seasonal menu that celebrates more traditional Italian dishes. Take for example, from their current summer menu, the Spaghetti alla Nerano, which celebrates the humble courgette, at its peak in the summer months.
Found on Argyle Street in Finnieston, Joia is one of the hidden gems of the west end, offering seasonal and classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Their activated black charcoal sourdough pizza is a must try, giving a unique and delicious flavour and bite to the dough. If you are on a budget, you can dine on their set menu daily until 4pm, which offers two course for £14.95 or three courses for £18.95 and includes dishes like shetland mussels, pork shoulder ragu and more.
Famed for their stunning lemon tree décor, Santa Lucia Pasta on Byres Road focuses on, you’ve guessed it, pasta. The pasta is made in house daily in the kitchen, with a host of different shapes and sizes accompanying their housemade ragus and sauces. The must-order dish here is their signature Lasagna Fritta – deep fried crispy lasagne bites with Napoli sauce. If that’s not your thing though, their fresh pasta menu has something to suit everyone, from a simple Cacio e Pepe or Carbonara, to the Palermo – spaghetti pasta with king prawns, chillies, garlic, cherry tomato sauce, lemon zest and black olive powder.
This award-winning Italian restaurant has been a fixture of Great Western Road for many years, with a loyal and long-standing customer base. The extensive menu features all the classics you might expect, but they are particularly known for their risotto, of which there are four to choose from. Go for the classic Ligurian inspired combination of fresh asparagus, pesto and parmesan shavings, or be a little more adventurous and opt for the Salsiccia & Tartufo – risotto with grilled Tuscan sausage on pumpkin puree, topped with parmesan and truffle oil.
There is nothing I love more on a weekend than perusing the deli counter at Celino’s in Partick. The selection of cured, smoked and sliced meats and cheeses is unmatched, and it is also one of the few places in Glasgow you can get your hands on Guanciale – a cured pork cheek that is traditionally used in a true Carbonara. The adjoining restaurant is always packed with happy diners feasting on their range of pizza, pasta, seafood and meat dishes. I recommend the Calzone filled with Italian sausage and peppers.
