The Shandon Belles

Absolutely one of the best meals—and most lovely service—I've enjoyed in recent memory. Though it was a last minute decision and I was rather underdressed for such a gorgeous and classic dining room, this made no difference as I felt thoroughly cared for by the staff and the food did not disappoint. Recommended by a Glaswegen friend of a friend, and though I can't eat as hefty a meal as I once could, the server helped me make all the right choices and spoiled me in exactly the right ways to make for a perfect dinner. First, I was feeling something on the red meat side so was debating what sounded like a glorious beef dish or the venison (on a sauteed savoy cabbage with black pudding crumbles, a gratinée and a raspberry gin jus) and was leaning toward the beef as I've had some venison I didn't love and it was £10 less on the menu and I felt like splurging. My instincts were wrong—the server strongly encouraged the venison and also insisted I try the Cullen skink (even though I'd read about it and meant to have it at some point, was fearful it'd be too much food). So I was served a bit of Cullen skink in a teacup as a treat and it was luxurious. Some describe it as like a thin chowder but I'd say the chef's preparation was more like a fine bisque, buttery, creamy, flavorful and fresh. (I'm thinking about this and, while fresh in memory, making a version right now at home in Chicago, where I've added a little cream, steeped the fish in milk before cooking the potatoes in it and water that'll reduce, and because i can't resist to doctor I've added a little saffron for color and aromatics and I still don't think this will be as good.) But also the venison was the move—deliciously tender, perfectly on the pink side of medium rare, full of flavor, not a hint of gaminess... It was just an extraordinary dish. If this restaurant isn't holding a Michelin star, it deserves one. I particularly want to say I appreciated the warm advice and conversation of my server, who I suspect may have been the head waiter, with round glasses, an excellent beard of which I envy and a sharp tweed vest.

Excellent food, excellent service, a must try in Glasgow! There’s literally nothing to complain about the food or service here! The scallops are the best I have ever had, cooked to perfection and generous portion as well! The sweetcorn purée goes perfectly with the scallops, you must try this dish!! The five spice duck is super soft and tender, the noodle are a bit salty tho. Highland Venison is delightful as well, the red cabbage in it is so tasty. They do nice cocktails here as well! Even the bread tastes so good here 🤩 The service is absolutely amazing, everyone is so welcoming and friendly, love the decor as well, excellent atmosphere, there’s plenty of seating, highly recommend this place!

Amazing Scottish food in a historic location. This is one of the oldest restaurants in Glasgow and it's lovely to see it so well kept while oozing tradition and heritage. You can get the best of Scottish cuisine here, with an emphasis on seafood. Try the delicious cullen skink, or the scallops! Or if you want something meaty, the venison is a top choice. It's a bit of a fancy dining experience but it's a very friendly an welcoming place.

it was our first day in Scotland and we went to this restaurant and we were amazed by how the staff is super kind & welcoming and accommodated our choices of food (no alcohol and no pork) the food was so delicious and the complimentary bread was very tasty that i ate 4 pieces 😂 Ambience also was lovely and comfy.. Highly Recommended!! i fall in love w Scotland after meeting the amazing friendly staff .. we even took a picture together!