Lights, camera ...and a cuppa
Film crew find they can bank on Allan’s Snack Bar
A crew of more than 40 actors and production staff caused a minor sensation in a Paisley street as they filmed an advert for a banking giant.
Traffic came to a standstill in Storie Street as the ad was shot at Allan’s Snack Bar by the team, which was working on behalf of RBS.
“They chose the restaurant for its retro look,” said Stefano Cardosi, owner of Allan’s. “The ad was for a mobile phone app.”
Stefano said he had no idea how RBS came across the eatery, which has been in the town for decades and has a cosy 1950s look to it.
He said: “There were about 40 of them here, with about 10 or 12 actors.
“They even set up a gazebo at the back for catering. It was about a fortnight ago when they got in touch.”
The filming, which involved setting up a large number of lights and other equipment in Storie Street, attracted a lot of interest from passers-by.
“There was a bit of a traffic jam,” said Stefano.
“I think people were expecting to see Ewan McGregor.”
The restaurant is just one of a number of traditional eating places owned by Stefano and his family in Paisley. These include Cardosi’s coffee bar in the High Street, and its major new venture Pendulum, which is an upmarket restaurant on the ground floor of the former Arnott’s building in Gauze Street.
Stefano said he was happy to let the filming take place all day because it was on a Monday, and there was no need for any restaurant staff to be there. There was also a filming fee. “Just a nominal one,” he said. “But it gets the place noticed.” Allan’s Snack Bar is mentioned in many tourist guides, and draws both local and visiting customers because of its traditional fish and chip menu and the unique surroundings.
Reviews on the Tri p Advisor website praise it as a “great chippy” and for making the “best fish in town”. Staff are also praised for their friendliness.