We asked folk on the Glasgowist Facebook page to tell us what was their favourite restaurant in the Merchant City. There’s an impressive selection to choose from so unsurprisingly there were lots of different names thrown into the mix. Then there started to be more of a pattern with Cafe Gandolfi being mentioned frequently and a blizzard of comments about Guy’s at Candleriggs.
Guy’s Restaurant and Bar is hiding in plan sight close to Merchant Square, across from the space where Goldbergs department store once stood. Unassuming from the outside, inside the dining room is plush without being fancy and decorated with art in a way that could be considered eccentric.
The menu combines traditional Scottish staples with exotic delights in a manner that confirms this is a more unconventional place than it might at first appear. That’s part of the fun. There’s a comforting whiff of nostalgia about Guy’s, yet you can still order hand rolled sushi with spicy tuna or a seriously spicy portion of Bang Bang chicken.
You can also dine on better freshly-made ravioli than you will find in most Italians. Chef Guy Cowan has a background in catering for the film industry on shoots and developed a passion for a myriad of cooking styles.
The menu is not a mess however, there is variety without overstretching, choice without confusion.
We suspect a lot of diners choose here for their Scotch lamb, Aberdeen Angus Beef and flair for haggis dishes. In the evening, don’t forget the cocktails, for they are formidable.
On our last visit we enjoyed the starter of Galloway cheddar macaroni cheese with garlic bread and an excellent monkfish and scallop risotto.
We must mention their signature dish, Scottish tapas. Try a hearty and satisfying taste of Glasgow with a mini steak pie, mince ‘n’ tatties, MacSween’s Haggis and a portion of chips. A belter of a main course.
Guy’s opens for lunch from noon Monday-Saturday and from 12.30pm on Sunday.
There’s live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings with piano most Sunday afternoons.
Guys Restaurant
24 Candleriggs
Merchant City
Glasgow
G1 1TD
Glasgow G1 1LD, UK