Top places for a boys night out in Glasgow

Promising “food, music and liquor” Chinaski’s is an ultra-cool candlelit bar celebrating all things Charles Bukowski. Like the writer, the bar feels simultaneously laid-back and slightly chaotic, with loud music, plenty of chatter, and copious amounts of drinks on offer. There’s everything from bourbon and whiskey to bespoke cocktails and craft beer, and the prices are exceptionally reasonable. Food wise, we love the small plates, which are ideal for sharing. Real highlights include popcorn chicken with black garlic mayo, brisket spring rolls with sriracha, and Korean fried cauliflower with red dragon sauce. If you and the boys are looking for something more substantial, the burgers are epic and the homemade pizzas come with a variety of toppings. A brilliant place to start, or end, a night out, Chinaski’s is a must-visit.

Brutti Compadres prides itself on serving top-notch tapas dishes and drinks as well as having the friendliest service that Glasgow has to offer. Meat eater, veggie or vegan, there’s a dish for everyone. Perfect for large groups, the menu is composed of small Spanish-inspired dishes like patatas bravas, cheese and bacon croquettes, halloumi which chilli, nachos and angry prawns. Yum! The drinks menu is equally extensive. Most cocktails come in under £8, and there’s an array of beers, wines and speciality spirits to boot. The staff are super accommodating, and the atmosphere is always buzzing.

Nothing screams boys night out more than BYOB! The team at Tuk Tuk pride themselves on being the pioneers of Indian street food culture and delivering exceptional customer service. Using fresh ingredients and authentic spices, the menu is filled with delicious dishes for just about everybody. Tuk Tuk’s philosophy is all about experiencing and sharing great food, so it’s the perfect spot for large groups (and bringing your own drinks will certainly help to keep the prices down). Why not opt for the set menu? For under £20, you will be treated to popadoms and chutney, three small plates (chicken lollipops, pakora platter, and samosas), and four main curries for the entire table. The curry options include knock-out meat-free numbers like the chana masala and saag paneer, as well as classic lamb and chicken-based plates, all of which are served with classic perhwari and garlic naan, and two types of rice — bargain! The vibe is relaxed and the staff are wonderfully friendly. 

Fore Play Crazy Golf is the first of its kind in Scotland, combining crazy golf, drinks and super tasty street food for the ultimate night out. The course consists of two 9-hole Glasgow-inspired courses. Putt your way through, over and under obstacles such as the Finnieston Crane and the Waverley Wheel as you take on som crazy golf carnage. As the website warns: the mini golf courses may be competition-inducing, tantrum-inspiring and cheat-encouraging! It’s over-18s only, so expect plenty of booze, banter, and even a heated cocktail garden for those wanting a break from all the golf. Group bookings are available, and in terms of eating, it’s all about comfort food (loaded fries, juicy burgers, hot dogs, cauliflower wings, and so on). Prices are reasonable and you and your pals are guaranteed a good time. Ticks all of our boxes!

Mono opened in 2002 and has since been providing Glasgow with one of the coolest and most unique spaces in the city to eat, drink and discover new music. The main aim? Maintaining a welcoming environment, quality food and drink, and an exciting range of events, “all couched in an ethical and community based context”. Events include album launches by local artists, themed club-nights, stand-up gigs, and much more. The entire menu is vegan, but even the most ardent of meat eaters will adore the selection. From vegan pizza crunch and macaroni cheese to to-fish tacos and harissa aubergine with smoked quinoa, nobody is going to leave hungry. Whether you’re up for a night of dancing, chilling or just enjoying a meal with your mates, Mono always hits the spot.