A night at Unalome shows why this part of Glasgow reigns supreme in local hospitality
The cluster of food and drink places around Finnieston and Kelvingrove are among the best in Scotland.
The Scotland football team’s return to the World Cup has become a global story due to the shenanigans of the Tartan Army in Boston. Bars and venues will be busy tonight as patriotic fervour translates to boisterous social gatherings across the city, not least at The Hydro where thousands of fans will watch the match against Morocco.
Footballing exploits are the most obvious source of Scottish pride this week but we can also take Caledonian credit for the strength of our music scene and our local hospitality. The amount of bands that Glasgow generate is extraordinary. Evidence will be on the stage at TRNSMT at Glasgow Green this weekend. That drive for independent expression that is fostered in our city is also seen in the amount of bars and restaurants that stand out from the crowd.
Last night there was a dinner at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers where he paired some of the best Scottish produce with Umai caviar. A five course tasting menu, serves after an introduction to the Umai Caviar collection and it’s qualities. Wine and Champagne pairings with a specially selected martini menu.
There was sea-reared steelhead trout sustainably farmed in the pristine waters of Loch Melfort on Scotland's west coast by family-run Kames Fish Farm. Loch Fyne langoustine prepared with hazelnut, dashi butter sauce and smoked cauliflower. Tartare of rose veal with oxtail jelly. Then came the showstopper with Japanese A4 Miyazaki wagyu beef served with peas and duck liver, the dish paired with a glass of Ridge Zinfandel blend Geyserville 2021. This is world class hospitality taking place in a quiet corner near Kelvingrove Park on a Thursday night.
Close neighbours include Kelvingrove Cafe where you can enjoy some of Scotland’s best cocktails, and their recently opened Basque wine bar Dani across the road. Eleven Fifty Five with cooking from Peter McKenna and a warm welcome from Kevin Dow. The enduring appeal of Crabshakk, Mother India and The Ben Nevis. The Big Taquero that’s just opened on The Hidden Lane. Ox and Finch, Porter & Rye, The Buttery.
I’ve spent over ten years writing about this cluster of independent food and drink businesses around Argyle Street and they continue to represent the best version of Glasgow hospitality.
While we are flying the flag for Scotland’s footballing stars this weekend, let’s also raise a toast to some of the brilliant restaurant and bars we have on our doorstep.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers is at 36 Kelvingrove St, Finnieston, Glasgow G3 7RZ.