Restaurant review: Gloriosa 1321 Argyle Street, Glasgow

Location

Just a stone’s throw from Kelvingrove Art Gallery, the trendy eatery has parking nearby and is only a short walk from both Kelvinhall subway station, and bus stops.

First impressions

Bright and light, the restaurant is oh-so modern, with an airy open-plan layout. As well as table seating, there’s also a bar with high chairs for more casual dining.

Service

The staff really are first-rate. Our waitress, Emma, could not have been more helpful. Friendly and attentive at all times, and we didn’t feel rushed to leave, even though it was a busy Friday.

Menu

Sharing plates are popular on the culinary scene right now, and Gloriosa is no different. Packed with fresh ingredients, the small yet perfectly formed selection has a little something for everyone, and it’s updated regularly, so you’ll be able to visit again and again without getting bored.

Plus, the kitchen are happy to adapt dishes for dietary requirements – we were given different options for the gluten-free and vegan members of our party.

Taste

Packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavours, each dish was better than the last. Between five people we opted for thick wedges of focaccia (not to be missed), three portions of cod, braised leeks, a special vegan bucatini with tomatoes, charred asparagus, taramasalata with radish and olives, and the pièce de résistance, marinated dill pickles served with shots of vodka. Oh, and quite a few jalapeno margaritas…

Ambience

Relaxed, warm and friendly. Perfect for a long catch-up dinner.

Price

£188, which we thought reasonable for the quality and fantastic surroundings.