The magic of Mackintosh: A spotlight on Mackintosh at the Willow

Glasgow represents a rich melting pot of cultures, from art to history to new-age hospitality, and Mackintosh at the Willow manages to perfectly in-capture it all. Founded in the early 1900s, Mackintosh at the Willow was an institute of progressive art and architectural design, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. However, throughout the decades, Mackintosh at the Willow become neglected and deteriorated before – luckily for us – it was re-founded and reopened to preserve the historical spot that it is known as today. Intertwining a cherished heritage building and a quintessentially British culinary experience results in an innovational affair at Mackintosh.

Mackintosh at the Willow offers an epic creative haven through their venue hosting, workshops, exhibitions and explorative art concepts, but we’re here to rave about the culinary aspect on offer.

When dining at Mackintosh, you’ll be seated in the historic dining hall, with elongated ceilings and nods to original details that have stayed following the restoration. You’ll have the chance to explore the retail store and interactive centre to learn more about the space before or after tucking in.

The Willow Tea Rooms are one of the main draw-ins for any visitor of Mackintosh at the Willow. Aligning the offering with the Willow’s deep art and architectural roots, you can see elements and nods to the history of the building throughout your seating.

An afternoon tea is simply too good to turn down, and The Willow Tea Rooms delivers one of the best in Glasgow. Freshly baked scones, dainty finger sandwiches, puffed pastries, and cakes– all delightfully flavourful and paying homage to local Scottish ingredients. Expect choices such as Smoked Salmon & a Chive Cream Cheese, Classic Egg Mayo & Rocket, Classic Mild Scottish Cheddar & Pickle, Vegan Black Onion Seed & Chilli Jam Sausage Roll, Lemon Meringue Choux Buns, Cherry Bakewell Tarts, and Carrot Cakes.

The afternoon tea caters to vegetarians and vegans if you so wish, as well as offering a Prosecco, Gin, Whisky, or Champagne option. Each setting comes with an array of loose-leaf tea and freshly brewed coffee to keep you well caffeinated throughout your afternoon.

Better yet, Mackintosh at the Willow now extends their hospitality options to breakfast, brunch, and lunch – and what a menu they’ve put together! Dine at the Willow from 10am to 4:30pm daily and you’ll be treated to Scottish-inspired dishes such as Isle of Harris Gin, Citrus & Dill Cured Salmon, Kilmarnock Haggis Parcel, Pressed Chicken & Ham Terrine, and Locally Sourced Cumberland Ring Sausage. If your tastebuds aren’t quite there yet, opt for a toasted sandwich from their extensive menu, or their Mack and Cheese (with the optional add-on of Black Pudding). Kids, gluten-intolerants, vegetarians, and vegans are all well-catered to, making the menu an accessible spot to stop and recharge on an adventurous day.

Naturally, a heritage spot like this is always to be serving up the best cakes and sweet treats. Rhubarb & Custard Mille Feullie, Ginger Crème Brûlée, and Milk Chocolate & Biscoff Mousse are all on the menu, alongside daily baked afternoon tea cakes and plain and fruit scones served with clotted cream and homemade jam.

You’ll find Mackintosh at the Willow at 215-217 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow G2 3EX, open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm. Book in for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea right here!