Restaurant Review: warm welcome awaits at hidden gem

Thankfully, this bijoux restaurant tucked away near Williamwood station is run by someone else: former Ubiquitous Chip chef Ian Brown and wife Sheila.

Then again, it’s possible that I don’t have to introduce the couple at all as, judging by a packed Wednesday night, just about every customer is a regular — and as a result, the service is impeccably friendly and informal.

Then, there’s the menu of classic combinations (with one or two unusual pairings thrown in).

The other half and I were treated to a zingy teacup of carrot and ginger veloute while wading through the menu, followed by thick wedges of (excellent) bread. So far, so good.

He opted for pea and ham soup to start; a delicous, ample bowl of creamy green broth with plenty of chunks of smoky ham lurking beneath.

I couldn’t resist the monkfish, wrapped in bacon and placed on top of a chorizo and chickpea stew, along with pea sauce. It was wonderful; meaty fish, earthy stew and a welcome dash of freshness from the pea puree — the taste almost topped by beautiful presentation.

The OH’s main was stuffed pork fillet in cider cream with dauphinoise potatoes and greens — a well-portioned plate, everything cooked to perfection.

I went for sea bass with prawn risotto and pak choi salad; a strange combination of flavours (saucy Italian meets stir fry) but tasty, with well-cooked fish and sweet red onion running through the greens.

The OH had his eye on a cheeseboard, and later claimed it was the best he’d had; crisp, savoury lavash bread matched well with Scottish cheeses.

However, the tablet cheesecake trumped it in my eyes; firm, tart cheese on a crumbly base, topped with flecks of tablet and gooey caramel.

If Ian and Sheila Brown Wanna Be Adored, they’re going the right way about it, and their restaurant is an undoubted gem in East Ren’s foodie crown.

Rating: 9/10

Ian Brown Food & Drink

55 Eastwoodmains Road

Giffnock

G46 6PW

Tel: 0141 638 8422