Sample Scottish treats at Cranachan Cafe

Decorated in neutral, calming tones, the space represents modern Scotland. Wallpaper courtesy of Glasgow’s Timorous Beasties design studio and cream upholstery are complemented by deer antler-style light fittings, large oil paintings by native artists depicting island scenery and wooden flooring. Seating up to 70, the venue takes bookings for small or large groups, with additional options for those wanting a party takeover.

Wake up with a classic fry-up, with tattie scones, square sausage, some haggis and black pudding, or a lighter option like a quick filled roll, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, avocado toast or vegan-friendly plant-based pancakes. Those combining their morning repast and lunch can have a heartier kedgeree risotto topped with a soft poached egg. Plus there’s the signature cranachan pancakes, which are served with whipped cream, raspberries and a honey drizzle. Brunch is served until 3 pm on the weekends.

Home baking is a big part of the action here, with comforting scones fresh from the oven. Feeling fancy? Order a three-tiered stand of sandwiches, cakes and miniature desserts with a tea or coffee of your choice — just be sure to pop your little pinky out when holding your cup. Or make your afternoon tea boozy, with some pink bubbles in a glass flute. The Cafe is also known for its excellent coffee and uses beans from Glasgow’s own roasters, Dear Green Coffee, to create delicious, artisanal coffee drinks. The cafe’s baristas are trained to the highest standard and take pride in creating perfectly crafted lattes, cappuccinos and flat whites, as well as seasonal hot chocolates come the winter months.

The venue always has a choice of three, homemade soups made daily onsite. These can be ordered with bread, as a half soup and sandwich (like the toasted triple-decker filled with chicken, bacon, lettuce and tomato) or solo for those counting the calories. Do try the hearty Cullen Skink if you’re riffing on Cranachan’s Scottish theme, this can be enjoyed in miniature as part of a platter comprising chicken liver pate, Mull of Kintyre cheddar, mackerel pate, salad, bread and oatcakes. Binging kids? They have you covered with a special menu for little ones (which they can colour in, while you catch up with pals over a vino).

The menu’s small plates include the popular halloumi-topped bruschetta;  warm couscous with heather honey glazed chicken skewers and harissa crème fraiche; and roasted beetroot salad with seasonal squash, a garlic and thyme dressing and topped with a goat’s cheese crostini (a vegan version can be prepared to order too). Larger feeds include Innis and Gunn beer battered haddock and chunky chips with mushy peas and a homemade tangy tartare sauce; the house burger (100% Scottish beef burger topped with bacon, cheese, crispy onion ring and sliced dill pickle); and juicy rump of lamb with roast potatoes, caramelised onions and a red wine jus. Whatever you order, it will all arrive elegantly presented on rustic pottery. If you want to enjoy an evening meal here, you’ll need to book for a Thursday, a Friday or a Saturday night, when it stays open later into the night. Book the pre-theatre slot for a great value set menu, ahead of a night on the tiles. 

Cranachan offers a selection of cocktails and wine. Prefer your spirits disguised as tea? Order a pot of Hendricks Gin in cocktail form, with a garnish of fresh cucumber and berries in your cup. The venue supports lots of local artisan distilleries and breweries, stocking Edinburgh Gin, Darnley’s Spiced from Fife, Bruichladdich whisky from Islay, Talisker 10, Cardhu 12 and Innis and Gunn craft beer.

A lovely spot in what is objectively the city’s poshest shopping mall, Cranachan’s authentic Scottish home cooking, delicious food and coffee, cosy atmosphere and responsible approach to sustainability makes it a real hit. Cranachan Cafe takes bookings from 9 am (opening an hour later on Sundays).