This guide will take you through the best restaurants in Glasgow’s West End, so you can know exactly where to eat for every occasion in advance. This ultimate list covers everything from casual dining spots to perfect places for memorable celebrations. Want to eat better, spend smarter, settle into Glasgow faster or explore confidently as an international student? Have a quick check of this local guide.
Best Affordable Restaurants in Glasgow West End for Students
Price always takes the prime consideration for students to dine out, and these top 4 affordable restaurants in Glasgow West End are convenient to access and student-friendly.
Dumpling Monkey: Budget-Friendly Asian Comfort Food
Dumpling Monkey is located at 121 Dumbarton Rd, Partick, Glasgow G11 6PR, a beloved spot for authentic Chinese street food. Here, you can indulge in a variety of dumplings and noodles. The best try dishes include their Pork and Chinese Leaves Dumplings, Char Sui Buns, and the fiery Chilli Oil. This spot is a must-try for budget-conscious students and fans of authentic Asian flavours looking for a satisfying meal. Prices typically range from £5 to £15, making it an ideal choice for a casual and affordable meal.
Paesano & Sano Pizza
Location: 471 Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 8HL.
Paesano Pizza can’t be missed by Pizza lovers. The best dish is genuine Neapolitan pizza that transports you straight to Italy. Their simple yet exquisite menu features classic options, with the Pizza No. 4: Prosciutto cotto and Pizza No. 8-Spianata spicy salami being highly recommended. This is a fantastic option for all students seeking high-quality, authentic Italian pizza at student-friendly prices, usually around £8-£12 per pizza. It’s perfect for a quick, casual lunch or a relaxed dinner.
Hanoi Bike Shop: Vietnamese Favourites Near the University of Glasgow
Hidden away at 8 Ruthven Ln, Glasgow G12 9BG, just off Byres Road, Hanoi Bike Shop is a vibrant eatery specialising in Vietnamese street food. Their Pho is a standout, as is the Tofu with lemongrass and chilli, and for those wanting to sample a bit of everything, the Banquet menu is an excellent choice. University of Glasgow students will find this a cool, hidden gem for a flavorful meal. Prices generally range from £10 to £25, offering great value for an exotic culinary journey.
Mother India’s Café: Iconic Indian Small Plates
At 1355 Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AD.
Mother India’s Café is famous for its Indian tapas, offering a unique way to experience Indian cuisine. The Butter Chicken, Lamb Saag, and Garlic Naan are consistently praised. This is an excellent choice for groups of students who enjoy sharing and trying multiple flavours. With small plates typically priced around £6-£9 each, a meal here can range from £15 to £25 per person, providing a delightful Glasgow West End dining experience.
Best Restaurants in Glasgow West End for Dining Celebrations
When you need to celebrate. The West End also offers sophisticated options for those special moments.
Cail Bruich: Michelin-Star Scottish Dining
Location: 725 Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 8RP.
Cail Bruich, acting as the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Glasgow, will be your best place to celebrate any special moments. Led by Executive Chef Lorna McNee, it offers a seasonal Tasting Menu that showcases modern Scottish cuisine at its finest. It is no doubt the perfect venue for graduation celebrations or very special date nights, and no surprise you need to prepare for a higher price point, typically £125+ for the Tasting Menu. However, memory is priceless, right?
No. 16: Modern Scottish Cuisine for Date Nights
At 16 Byres Rd, Glasgow G11 5JY.
No. 16 Restaurant, Byres Road, is an award-winning restaurant known for its modern Scottish cuisine. Their ever-changing seasonal menu features exquisite dishes such as pan-fried hake and Scottish beef. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic date night or when parents are visiting, offering a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. Prices usually range from £30 to £50 per person, making it a more accessible fine-dining option than some.
Ka Pao: Trendy Asian Fusion
Found at 26 Vinicombe St, Glasgow G12 8BE, Ka Pao brings trendy Southeast Asian fusion small plates to the West End. Must-try dishes include their Corn ribs, Fried chicken with fish sauce caramel, and the unique Arbroath smokie miang. This restaurant is perfect for trendy foodies and students looking for a”cool” night out with friends. Prices typically range from £20 to £35 per person.
Best Traditional Scottish Restaurants in Glasgow West End
Traditional Scottish food should be tried by international students, as it is also an important part of experiencing the special culture, fulfilling your memorable study journey in Glasgow. These two top restaurants in Glasgow’s west offer great traditional tastes. let’s go.
The Bothy
Nestled at 11 Ruthven Ln, Glasgow G12 9BG.
Here, you can indulge in classic comfort food like Haggis, Neeps and Tatties, Cullen Skink, and hearty Steak Pie. This is a must-visit for students eager to immerse themselves in traditional Scottish culture and cuisine. Expect prices to be in the £20-£40 range.
Gael & Grain
Located at 117-119 Dumbarton Rd, Glasgow G11 6PW,
Gael & Grain’s menu features home-cooked Scottish classics with a contemporary twist, celebrating Scotland’s rich culinary heritage with a modern approach. It’s an excellent choice for students seeking casual yet high-quality Scottish dining. Prices generally range from £15 to £30.
Best Cafés and Dessert Spots in Glasgow West End for Study Breaks
If you are a coffee brain or a sweet dessert stomach, just mark these three top cafes and dessert spots in the West End, Glasgow.
Ottoman Coffee House: A Cosy Café
Ottoman Coffee House, found at 73 Berkeley St, Glasgow G3 7DX, offers a cosy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for long study sessions. Indulge in their rich Ottoman Coffee, delightful Baklava, or even a savoury Shawarma. This café is ideal for students looking for a quiet spot to work or relax with friends. Prices typically range from £5 to £15.
Tantrum Doughnuts: Small Batch, Big Flavour
For a sweet treat, head to Tantrum Doughnuts at 27 Old Dumbarton Rd, Glasgow G3 8RD. They specialise in hand-crafted gourmet doughnuts with unique flavours. The Crème Brûlée and Sea Salted Honey Glazed doughnuts are an absolute must-try. It’s the perfect spot for a quick sugar fix between lectures or a delightful afternoon treat. Doughnuts are typically priced between £3 and £5.
Pasteis Lisboa: Portuguese Pastries and Coffee
At 280 Byres Rd, Glasgow G12 8SH,
Pasteis Lisboa brings authentic Portuguese flavours to Glasgow with their delicious Pastéis de Nata. Both classic and vegan options are available, making it a delightful stop for a coffee break on Byres Road. Prices are very student-friendly, ranging from £2 to £5.
Restaurants Near University of Glasgow: Where Students Eat Most
Students eating close to the University of Glasgow campus have needs such as casual lunch, quick dinner, and special habits like vegetarian, vegan, and Halal. It is easy to find in the Glasgow West End.
Glasgow West End has numerous options for a quick and satisfying lunch. Students heavily frequented restaurants like Paesano Pizza and Kimchi Cult for Korean street food, which are perfect for a speedy, delicious meal without breaking the bank. Their proximity to the university makes them ideal for students grabbing a bite between classes or during a study break. Tastes are inclusive, fitting multiple needs from international students. Popular restaurants students also love include Ting Thai for budget, authentic Thai, Hanoi Bike Shop for Vietnamese flavours, and Eusebi Deli.
How to Make the Best Dining in Glasgow West End Easy
Want to have the best meals and make everything easy? The best tip is to stay closer to central hubs near your university campus in the Glasgow West End, making great things within walking distance. So the basic stone for your happy life is to secure an ideal accommodation in the neighbourhood. Many of the cool restaurants the West End has to offer are just a short stroll from student residences. This means less time commuting and more time enjoying delicious food and exploring the vibrant neighbourhood. It’s a significant perk for international students who might not have access to personal transport.
Final Thoughts: Eat at the Top Restaurants in the Glasgow West End and Live the Best
Glasgow’s West End is a treasure trove of culinary delights, offering something for everyone. The best restaurants in Glasgow West End provide an unforgettable gastronomic journey, from budget-friendly student favourites to upscale dining for special occasions. The restaurants in the Glasgow West End are so inclusive that students can benefit from friendly community living. Thus, for students of University of Glasgow, put your worries such as boring life near Glasgow’s west, where to eat near campus or how‘s living near university of glasgow further from city centre, etc, down, just to secure your student accommodation in Glasgow west end area and start your pleasant living like eat at popular restaurants and build your best lifestyle now!
FAQs about Best Restaurants in Glasgow West End
What are the best cheap restaurants in Glasgow West End?
For the best cheap restaurants in Glasgow West End offering delicious and affordable meals, consider Dumpling Monkey for Chinese street food, Paesano Pizza for authentic Neapolitan pizza, and Hanoi Bike Shop for Vietnamese favourites. These are among the top cheap places to offer in the West End.
Where do University of Glasgow students usually eat?
University of Glasgow students often frequent establishments like Hanoi Bike Shop due to its proximity and vibrant atmosphere. They also enjoy the quick and tasty options at Paesano Pizza and Dumpling Monkey for casual lunch or dinner. The entire food west end of the Glasgow area, around the university, is popular.
What is the best pizza in the Glasgow West End?
Many locals and students agree that Paesano Pizza offers some of the best pizza in Glasgow’s West End, known for its authentic Neapolitan style and fresh ingredients.
Are there good vegetarian or halal options in the Glasgow West End?
Yes, Glasgow’s West End is very accommodating. Mother India’s Café offers extensive vegetarian and vegan options. Many other restaurants in the Glasgow West End also provide excellent choices for those seeking vegetarian, vegan, or halal-friendly meals. It’s always recommended to check with the restaurant directly for specific dietary information.
Is the Glasgow West End expensive for students?
It depends. The Glasgow West End is often considered one of the more premium areas for students, with weekly rent typically ranging from £180 to over £300 depending on the type of accommodation and facilities. Its higher prices are mainly driven by its popularity, vibrant atmosphere, and close proximity to the University of Glasgow. It’s possible to balance comfort, location, and budget while enjoying one of the most desirable areas in the city if students opt for the right student accommodation in Glasgow West End.
Best Affordable Restaurants in Glasgow West End for StudentsDumpling Monkey: Budget-Friendly Asian Comfort FoodPaesano & Sano PizzaHanoi Bike Shop: Vietnamese Favourites Near the University of GlasgowMother India’s Café: Iconic Indian Small PlatesBest Restaurants in Glasgow West End for Dining CelebrationsCail Bruich: Michelin-Star Scottish DiningNo. 16: Modern Scottish Cuisine for Date NightsKa Pao: Trendy Asian FusionBest Traditional Scottish Restaurants in Glasgow West EndThe BothyGael & GrainBest Cafés and Dessert Spots in Glasgow West End for Study BreaksOttoman Coffee House: A Cosy CaféTantrum Doughnuts: Small Batch, Big FlavourPasteis Lisboa: Portuguese Pastries and CoffeeRestaurants Near University of Glasgow: Where Students Eat MostHow to Make the Best Dining in Glasgow West End EasyFinal Thoughts: Eat at the Top Restaurants in the Glasgow West End and Live the BestFAQs about Best Restaurants in Glasgow West End
What are the best cheap restaurants in Glasgow West End?
Where do University of Glasgow students usually eat?
What is the best pizza in the Glasgow West End?
Are there good vegetarian or halal options in the Glasgow West End?
Is the Glasgow West End expensive for students?
