Snacks

Image by Julia Forrest

If you are sick of the usual sandwiches places then head over to Cessnock to Cherry and Heather’s Fine Foods. The tiny sandwich and deli shop set up by a husband and wife team is completely different from anything else in the area. Inside you’ll find a delightful jumble of little tables which can comfortable sit a few people. Touches like the branches of cherry blossoms hanging from the ceiling make this little cafe extra special.

In every sense it’s a melting pot – the Japanese owners bringing together Eastern & Scottish food, with innovation playing a key part. Try the honey and rose infused goat cheese sandwich or noodles in indonesian peanut sauce. The food is as cheap as chips and will make you smile!

They also have a fantastic selection of vegan sushi and cakes, as well as shelves stocked with Asian goodies and dry foods!

Quite well hidden, you’ll find Cherry and Heather just off the main road and only a short walk from Cessnock underground.

Details about this spot (Show on map)
Cherry and Heather | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Lunch £ 5.00
7 North Gower Street | South-West | +441414270272
Mon – Sat 10:00 – 18:00

Image by Roddy Cunningham

The brainchild of an ex art school student and Starbucks barista it is no wonder that Where The Monkey Sleeps (WTMS) is no normal coffee shop.

A board on the wall displays a menu consisting of simple lunch snacks like paninis, bagels, soups and stews with various fillings including Scots specialty haggis. There are 3 rooms in this deceptively large shop and are all decked from head to toe in classic heavy metal vinyl covers whilst classic rock is blasting out of the stereo.

WTMS is located on the corner Blysthwood Square the main office area for high flying professionals and I always find it funny to see all the business types in their suits in WTMS, metal blazing, eating their lunch.

It is also a singlespeed bike hotspot and a favourite of the art students.

It always has a busy lunch trade and is a real favourite of mine when I just want a sandwich or pot of soup.

Details about this spot (Show on map)
Where the Monkey Sleeps | Coffee & tea, Snacks | Soup £ 2.00
182 West Regent Street | City Centre | +442263406
Mon – Fri 07:00 – 17:00

Image by Roddy Cunningham

Ever since I was a little boy I can remember being taken to the University Cafe. A Glasgow institution since 1918, the cafe has been supplying the ubiquitous fish supper and fry-up since its birth.

Little has changed in times past and walking in is like walking back in time. The cafe still retains an old school diner style with mirrored walls and solid wooden panelling. Service is all conducted over the counter which holds real sweet memories for me.

10 pence mixes and ‘soor plooms’ (sour luminous green sweets) to name a few sold by the University Cafe hold fond memories for me and kept my dentist busy. Nothing has changed since those days still and when I want to jump back to my childhood days I also head here to get my sugar fix.

Now however good the fish supper and sweeties may be at the University Cafe the main selling feature at the cafe has to be its legendary ice cream. Creamy, soft and delicious the ice cream I think, alongside a good few other Glasgow locals, is the best in town. The selection changes daily and is served my selection of toppings, although I always go plain. It is so good that many restaurants and bistros buy the cafe’s homemade ice cream.

The selection is served from behind the glass cabinet and the only problem may be choosing one, or in my case normally two flavours. If they have it available go for the coconut, you won’t be disappointed!

Details about this spot (Show on map)
University Cafe | Snacks | Ice Cream £ 1.80
87 Byres Road | West End
Mon – Fri 09:00 – 22:00, Sat 09.00 – 22:30, Sun 10:00 – 22:00

Image by Roddy Cunningham

For an ultimate local hangout in the west end, Kember & Jones has to be first stop- if they have space for you! I am frequently in for late lunch or early dinner and so evidently is half of the residents of the West End of Glasgow. Looking through the windows at the front, it is hard not to be drawn in by the homemade cheese scones and meringues and their looks do not deceive. At Kember & Jones they really pride themselves on the quality of their produce and the skill it is produced with. Most of the food available at this deli/café is simple- salads, tarts and platters- but again the high quality of the products makes eating here a real delight.

When the sun decides to make an appearance but there is still a little chill in the air the tables outside are filled with people with blankets over their laps, sipping their glass of wine and sharing a mouthwatering ham platter.

I like to go to Kember & Jones by myself browse the book selection available whilst indulging in a slice of pecan pie or an amazing cheese scone.

Even if just walking past pop in and pick up something from the deli counter you won’t be disappointed- I never am!

Details about this spot (Show on map)
Kember & Jones | Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Salad, Tarts & Deli) | Tart £ 5.75
134 Byres Road | West End | +441413373851
Mon – Sat 09:00 – 22:00, Sun 09:00 – 18:00

Image by Roddy Cunningham

A Sunday morning in Glasgow to many people means one thing- a big dirty hangover. For me it means brunch at Cafezique.

The café/restaurant previously know as Delizique, a deli now located next door, still displays obvious remnants of its original roots as a diary shop, which probably dates back to before the war. However, don’t let the exterior fool you into thinking your walking into a ruin as inside the modern l-shaped bar and glass panelled mezzanine floor make the most of what is quite a small space. The clever use of space along side a guaranteed flock of hungry locals helps create a light and bustling atmosphere which is perfect for sitting and reading the Sunday papers or a good book.

Cafezique boasts all-day breakfasts that can guarantee to fill any void in your stomach with high quality organic produce and generously large portions. My personal favourite- Eggs Benedict- is a house speciality and is definitely not to be missed and the ‘Big fry up’, a somewhat Glasgow staple, is just what is called for after a rough night before.If you are looking for a quick in and out meal, forget it. The staff are far too laid back and mellow to rush anything, this could maybe be frustrating during a midweek lunch or dinner, but on a Sunday morning the slow pace is just what is called for.

One bit of advice- try and get there early as come 12 o’clock this place will be packed!

Details about this spot (Show on map)
Cafezique | Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Deli) | Breakfast £ 5.00
66 Hyndland Street | West End | +441413397180
Mon – Sat 09:00 – 22:30, Sun 09:30 – 22:30