Going out
Restaurant of the week
The 78, 10 Kelvinhaugh St, Glasgow Location
Just off Argyle Street in the popular Finnieston Strip area of the West End.
First Impressions
Bare brick walls, pot plants hanging on string from the windows, an open fireplace, chunky tables and church pews for seats. Quirky, but inviting.
Service
Friendly, fast, and delivered with a smile.
Menu
The menu changes regularly, but some staples remain. It’s a vegan restaurant but there’s enough here to keep carnivores satisfied. There is an extensive range of small plates, which also work as starters, such as charred cauliflower, smashed Szechuan cucumber and Padron peppers. There are four main courses and a range of desserts.
Taste
The confit tomatoes small plate seems pricey at £8, but it’s worth it. Heirloom tomatoes cooked with garlic, spices and herbs, and the accompanying borlotti beans, yoghurt, lemon and olive oil were surprisingly pleasant. The 78’s signature dish is its homemade burger, and neither of us can look past it. The classic comes with onions, beef tomato, lettuce, dill pickle and burger sauce, while the cheese and charred onion drops the tomato and pickle in favour of vegan cheese. Both are moreish and hit the spot.
Ambience
The layout and decor gives off a laid-back, homely atmosphere.
Something special
There’s a daily specials board, an extensive range of beers, and board games in the corner if you fancy hanging around after dinner. Live jazz features on Sundays.
Price
The small plates are a little on the pricey side, but they don’t scrimp on portion sizes.
Toilets
More of a pub/club feel – could do with sprucing up.