Where to spend the May Bank Holiday weekend in Glasgow

In Glasgow’s West End, Eusebi Deli is a staple for anyone craving Italian food during the May Bank Holiday. This place blends the charm of a family-run Italian deli with the sophistication of a sit-down meal, making it a solid choice for any time of day. The focus here is on fresh, seasonal ingredients served with a smile. It’s the kind of spot where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast (who doesn’t want to kick off the bank holiday with a silky espresso and fresh Italian pastry?) or a hearty dinner, all with a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for a long weekend.

Maryhill may not be the first neighbourhood that springs to mind when you think of bars and restaurants. But, enter The Botany Bar and Restaurant, a herbaceous oasis in an otherwise residential area. Should this bank holiday bring a heatwave, you can take the sun on the terrace — with all-wood furniture, pretty potted plants and fairy lights, it’s one of the best (and lesser-known) beer gardens in the city. But if it proves chillier, there’s a wood burner inside the conservatory dining room to gather around late into the evening. The restaurant’s name is derived from Botany Bay in Australia, where many prisoners arrived after making the long ocean voyage, having departed from the nearby Forth and Clyde canal.

The brilliant thing about being off on a Monday is the many early week deals that you’d ordinarily miss because you’re working, or too tired after work. Chateau-X, like the Boomtown Rats, was not a fan of this day of the week. To remedy this and bring some joy into the start of your week, it set up F Mondays, where you can get steak frites for £10 and a 500g Chateaubriand for £25. Or if you want to make this your bank holiday Sunday spot, you’ll be able to indulge in one of the most decadent roasts around, with more than a few glasses of rich red because you don’t have to get up in the morning.

You’ve been eating its take-out for ages, now you can get the Salt and Chilli eat-in experience in Shawlands (the area, incidentally, taking 11th place on Time Out magazine’s list of the 51 most interesting and current neighbourhoods in the world). The extra time that this bank holiday affords provides the perfect opportunity to try the dine-in menu, which features bao buns, small plates, Hong Kong street food and rice dishes by celebrity chef Jimmy Lee. Do order some of the signature salt and chilli fries, too. Rustic wood panelled and exposed brick walls, oodles of blossom flowers and warm lantern lighting create a cosy ambience in which to savour the flavours. Queens Park is just around the corner for a spring stroll and the potential for some organised bank holiday activities and live entertainment at its arena.

If you’re attending the Scottish Cup semi-final at Hampden Park on the Sunday of this Bank Holiday weekend, reserve a table at The Montford. And you will need to book; as it’s literally across the road from the stadium, it gets pretty packed come event days. Opt for one of the outdoor picnic tables if you’re feeling optimistic about the weather. A roast with all the trimmings will set you back a mere £8.95. Or pop along on the Monday, to nab two pizzas for a tenner. The gin and malt of the month also represent excellent value, and you can catch sports fixtures on the big screen inside.

For a dive into Glasgow’s seafood scene this May Bank Holiday, Crabshakk in Finnieston is your go-to. Small, yes, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for with a punch of coastal flavours. The menu is a canvas of creativity, offering everything from classic fish and chips, and fish pie to more adventurous plates like linguine vongole or tempura squid. There are options for non-fish eaters too, and a cracking range of desserts to polish off your meal, including the ultra-decadent praline chocolate cake! Enjoy a cocktail (or two) while diving fork-first into the best seafood Glasgow has to offer.

Wee Paree is a quaint bistro that offers a cosy escape to France without leaving the city! As the three-day weekend stretches before you, there’s no better time to indulge in a little Parisian luxury. From the buttery croissants that melt in your mouth to the hearty flavours of a perfectly prepared coq au vin, Wee Paree is a holiday in itself. The interior of the place strikes a balance between elegance and comfort, featuring stylish tiled flooring and a well-designed outdoor terrace (an ideal spot for soaking up some sun, weather permitting). It’s a great choice for those looking to add a bit of romance to their May Day festivities.

Conveniently located in Glasgow’s bustling city centre, The Duke’s Umbrella is a standout for its innovative approach to British pub classics. The atmosphere strikes a balance between relaxed and refined, making it an ideal location for gathering with friends or family over the May Bank Holiday weekend. Menu highlights include the aromatic venison and smoked bone marrow curry, and a uniquely spiced haggis quesadilla, enhanced with guindilla chilli and melted cheese. Drink-wise, there’s everything from Scottish cocktails and well-balanced mocktails, to biodynamic wines and tasty hot drinks.

Brutti Compadres offers a slice of Mediterranean charm in the heart of Glasgow, making it a prime spot for those looking to add some warmth to their May Bank Holiday. It’s all about simplicity here, with a menu that’s straightforward yet full of flavour, focusing on tapas and small plates perfect for sharing. From halloumi fries and haggis bonbons to spicy paella and fresh salads, there’s something to suit all tastes. The décor is effortlessly cool, combining rustic elements with modern touches, creating a laid-back atmosphere where conversations flow as easily as the drinks! Just remember to book ahead of time, the restaurant can get quite busy.

Venture into The Hanoi Bike Shop for a taste of Vietnam without leaving Glasgow. This much-loved eatery offers an authentic street food experience, making it a lively choice for the May Bank Holiday. The place buzzes with energy and the colourful décor, inspired by the streets of Hanoi, adds to its unique charm. It’s not just about the atmosphere; the food is genuinely exciting, with a menu that encourages exploration and sharing. Whether you’re there for the pho, the bánh mì, or the inventive vegetarian options (including homemade tofu), it’s a culinary adventure that’s well-suited for a festive weekend in the city.