Black Dove, ShawlanDS

1 LOCATION

The south side of Glasgow is continually being talked up as the new West End, but it’s not quite managed it yet. Black Dove, on Kilmarnock Road, is on what can be considered the main strip of Shawlands.

2 fIrsT ImpressIONs

If you go to the Black Dove website it mentions the word “stylish” quite a lot and you can see why. Exposed brick? Check. Gantries lined with bottles of plonk? Naturally. Huge mirrors? Of course.

3 servICe

A very smart and polite young man is attentive all evening. Brownie points for in-depth knowledge of the menu.

4 meNu

Speaking of which, the menu, we’re told, consists of “small plates”. There are lots of Scottish flavours – scallops, beef, crab and so on – which are all given a twist. Braised lamb with potato presse, for example, or little cheeseburger “sliders”. Interesting...

5 TAsTe

Fantastic across the board. Small plates, big taste. The chicken thigh was essentially a mini roast dinner – surprisingly welcome for a Friday night.

6 prICe

The quality is there but you pay for it. Five small plates and two sides, along with a handful of drinks, is nearly £85.

7 AmbIeNCe

It is very stylish, just as they claim. We visited on a sunny Friday evening and the place has a very cool vibe as it hosts mainly couples and one family.

8 sOmeThINg speCIAL

The excellent staff know their cocktails. A refreshing Aperol Spritz – an Italian cocktail consisting of prosecco, Aperol and soda water – will certainly freshen your palate after those bold flavours coming from the kitchen.

9 TOILeTs

Individual toilets. No complaints.

10 verdICT

If you like fantastic ingredients prepared to a very high standard then do go. 18/20