Restaurant REVIEW

MINI GRILL, 244A BATH ST, GLASGOW

1 Location

Close to the King’s Theatre, so a handy choice for grabbing a pre-show bite. Near Charing Cross station and on several bus routes, so good non-car options.

2 First impressions

We had high expectations as the online reviews and ratings were top-notch. It is indeed mini with just a dozen or so tables downstairs. It’s all very simple, with exposed stone walls, wooden flooring and a small bar by the door.

3 service

Impressive from the minute we walked in. Our waiter queried if it was our first time and made us feel really welcome. The fine, friendly attention continued throughout.

4 menu

The à la carte menu starters include haggis done three ways, venison carpaccio, and a lamb rack cutlet. Among the main options were salmon, venison and mushroom and black truffle. A cranachan soufflé and an apple crumble panna cotta were two of the five desserts.

5 taste

We simply couldn’t see past the Glasgow burger as it has been a finalist in national awards. The 7oz beef burger came in an Irn-bru brioche bun with Buckfast bacon jam, braised beef cheek and Lockerbie cheddar. It was a big, melt-in-themouth, meaty marvel. Sensational.

6 price

We were just too late for the pre-theatre menu which is available until 5.30pm weekdays, so the bill with a couple of soft drinks came to £45.

7 ambience

The low-key music and welcoming vibe made it so relaxing.

8 something special

Steak lovers will love the choice of rib, hanger, fillet, tomahawk and Chateaubriand, starting at £18 and going up to £70 for two for the 40oz tomahawk.

9 toilets

Tidy – and not quite as mini.

10

verdict

Not just a great pre-theatre option, but somewhere worth seeking out at any time. 18/20.