Glasgow’s best restaurants for the summer

Forget views from a plane, this summer it’s all about experiencing views of the Glasgow skyline from the Red Sky Bar. This restaurant and bar offers stunning rooftop sights of both Glasgow and the iconic River Clyde. Sip amongst the clouds on a Glasgow-themed cocktail and experience a host of international flavours without having to leave your seat.

The small plates menu includes marinated olives, halloumi fries and more. Why not share an Italian Antipasti board stacked with salami, Parma ham, olives, rustic bread, and baby mozzarella? More of a cheese fiend? Then indulge in Kintyre cheddar, Dunsyre blue, Howgate brie, fruit chutney with oatcakes and warm rustic bread. The exclusive cocktail menu includes the signature Sky High Sling and a must-try Red Sky cocktail. You can also transport yourself to berry picking with the Strawberry Fields Forever, which consists of Glen’s strawberry vodka, lime, syrup, and lemonade. Consider booking an iconic rooftop brunch and dancing into the small hours with the resident DJ.

When it comes to beer gardens this summer there are few better places to hit up than The Record Factory. Celebrate the warm season with the BBQ, which is open all day long, and indulge in the extensive sharing food menu: you can expect all your favourite culprits such as nachos, buffalo, BBQ or salt and chilli chicken wings, and loaded cheesy fries. Pizza options include spicy chicken and red onion, and the veggie option of sundried tomatoes and pesto olive oil. Another real highlight is the chicken burger with tomato and cajun mayo. Tempting cocktails include a Spiced Margarita, Passionfruit Martini and White Russian. A wide range of beers, tequila shots and wine is also available. Why not rally your friends together and enjoy soaking in the summer vibes with the resident DJ setting the mood every weekend from 8pm until 2am? If this sounds good, keep in mind that all table bookings for indoor and outdoor areas are only available by booking through Dish Cult.

The Finnieston might be primarily a seafood restaurant but did you know that it also boasts a cosy beer garden? The plant-filled space gives you an impression that you’re tucked away somewhere far from the bustle of the city with just the sun, good company and summer feel around you. It’s the perfect place to invite your friends and catch up. You can enjoy all this with award-winning cocktails that contain a homemade element to minimise waste. The menu highlights are The Finnieston Signature Martini with dry vermouth and Seven Crofts Fisherman’s Strength, and a personal favourite called Stirred, not Shaken made with a delicious combination of Plymouth Navy Strength, Grey Goose and Lillet Blanc.

Chinaski’s is where the fun’s at: if you crave a party atmosphere but aren’t a fan of clubbing you should consider visiting this vibrant bar. The venue celebrates a sense of community and cultivates a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a place where you can mingle and enjoy delicious cocktails such as the Kiwi Margarita. You can also indulge in small plates such as bao buns, focaccia, chicken tenders and charred broccoli. The garden is open daily from 12 until 10pm but since it’s so popular, it’s best to book in advance to avoid disappointment.  

Inn Deep is one of the best places to kick start the summer celebrations in Glasgow as it offers a river view, a range of beers and entertainment in the heart of the West End area. It’s a versatile venue perfect for all kinds of occasions: a date spot where you can relax and share loaded fries, a place to catch up with a group of friends or somewhere to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you’re walking home after a long day at work. Cool yourself down with a house pint including Caesar Augustus, Chokka Blokka and Rekordelig Strawberry-Lime. If you fancy trying something new, pop in to see spoken poetry performances every Tuesday.