The Spike Bar gets extra points for glassy touches and a cosy fireplace
Mar Hall’s five- star c redentials have attracted A-listers like Neil Diamond, Beyonce and One Direction through their doors.
But tucked at the back of the exquisite entrance hall is a cosy bar where even the best-known faces can escape for a quiet pint and a bite to eat.
Pub Spy thought it was time to take a look around The Spike Bar and maybe rub shoulders with the rich and famous.
It’s fitted with dark mahogany and ornate chandel iers. A mi xture of couches and armchairs have a cosy appeal, like a posh auntie’s sitting room.
A cosy fireplace makes it easy to stand and take in the stunning views of the Clyde to the Kilpatrick hills.
On the day Pub Spy took in the majestic scenery, there was an American couple, a table of six in a casual business meeting, a few golfers arriving at the 19th and some wedding guests streaming in and out for a refill. Be warned though, if you’re a beer drinker, there’s only Tennent’s on tap. No celebs either.
That said, the food, like the fire, is bright and comforting. And the surrounds are just sublime.
Pub Spy also felt a surge of envy at the gigantic burger arriving on the right sitting in a glossy brioche bun, smothered in cheese and served with homemade chips – a firm favourite alongside the £13.75 steak pie, the waiter explains. The burger is £14.95. There’s a healthy mix of hot and cold dishes though veggie options are l imited. A risotto is on for £ 7 for a smaller portion or £14 for a main size dish.
Two hea r t y bow l s of homemade minestrone arrived alongside homemade egg mayo sandwiches with a garnish of salad and chips.
It might be £5.25 but a basket of freshly baked, still warm breads arrived to seal the deal. Little miniature white loaves, a seeded roll and one of those glossy brioche buns were devoured. Sandwiches come in about £ 8.50.
But it’s the little touches that elevate the whole place. The ketchup and mayo is served in little glass pots, the cutlery glistens brighter than the chandelier, the serviettes are as white as snow and the service is first- class.
Pub Spy could certainly get used to this.