We try Spanish steak and tapas at Bamboleo where 100 percent of profits go to charity

A touch of Spain has entered Bearsden as Bamboleo opens its doors. The neighbourhood steakhouse and wine bar occupies the site of former Beat 6, adopting the same economic model whereby 100 percent of profits are donated to the Beatson Cancer Charity. Guests can then enjoy divine cuisine whilst contributing to a worthwhile cause that serves local people.

It is an extension of the Glasgow-founded Six Company - the group behind Six By Nico restaurants - where change is intrinsic to the brand. All venues offer an ever-evolving menu reflective of a specific idea, allowing teams to build on their creativity. While Bamboleo retains the moral driving force of its predecessor it captivates a new experience, exploring direct regional inspiration with the advantage of longevity.

Bamboleo offers an a la carta menu comprised of tapas dishes and steak variations taking inspiration from Spanish flavours and recipes, all paired with an impressively curated wine list. The 48-seater intimate venue is dispersed across a bright and sophisticated ground floor decorated in bold tones and earthy furnishings, below a cozy rustic mezzanine.

With a fresh briny taste and creamy texture I found the pre-seasoned oysters (£3 each) a light welcoming dish to start the meal. My friends went for the guindilla peppers (£5), garlic and chilli butter infused prawns (£8.50) and pork cheeks (£8.50). All dishes were exemplary in flavour and presentation and immediately set the bar high.

Luckily then the main event met our expectations and then some. As a group of four we ordered two sharing plates of chateaubriand (£65) - a thick cut of beef from the cow’s tenderloin - both served medium rare with peppercorn sauce and chimichurri on the side. The steak was succulent, perfectly cooked with a melting inside and slightly smoky exterior. One of these boards is an effective portion for two people.

On the side we went for triple cooked chips (£5.50) coated in a crispy paprika and fried new potatoes with roast garlic aioli (£5.50) which held a tough edge but fluffy inside.

Though Bamboleo’s northwestern location initially seemed a far stretch from where I’m based in the East of Glasgow, the journey was seamless. We travelled on a direct train service from Alexandra Parade, which also stops at Glasgow Queen Street Station, and reached Hillfoot in around 20 minutes. From there it is a mere three minute walk to the destination.

We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and had a wonderful meal. The experience was made by the delicious food, fantastic service and relaxed atmosphere. It is somewhere I would return.

The restaurant is open now at 149 Milngavie Road in Bearsden from Wednesday to Sunday. Special menus are sometimes available depending on the day including a Spanish Sunday Roast and steak fritas. Building on the £1 million target reached by Beat 6 earlier in 2024, Bamboleo aims to raise £2 million for the Beatson Cancer Charity.