The Ubiquitous Chip

The best restaurant in Glasgow? When the Ubiquitous Chip is on top form, there’s no question about it. And there’s so much more besides fine dining to be experienced within this Glasgow institution of more than four decades standing, which also encompasses several excellent bars.

Opened by Ronnie Clydesdale in 1971 – whose family still own and run the place, along with nearby sister establishments Stravaigin and Hanoi Bike Shop – the Chip holds its own on the West End’s picturesque Ashton Lane, even as cheesy chain-operated bars and eateries close in around it. The Big Pub upstairs, with its open fire and great drinks selection, marries village local ambience with cosmopolitan cool. Elsewhere in the warren-like building, you’ll find the smaller Corner Bar and the smaller still Wee Pub – the smallest pub in Scotland, in fact. There’s even a brilliant, if very compact, hidden-away roof terrace at the top of the stairs.

But it’s dining that really puts the Chip on the map, and for which it’s recommended above all else. It was one of the first places in Scotland to champion contemporary Scottish cuisine, and in many respects remains the last word on the subject. The brasserie upstairs is very good, serving specialities such as olive oil-poached salmon and slow-cooked Inverurie lamb shoulder at solid value for money. If you feel like splashing out, go the whole hog and eat at the main restaurant, situated on the ground floor in the wonderfully ambient courtyard, where you dine amid ponds and greenery. Try the signature starter of venison haggis with champit tatties, carrot crisp and turnip cream, a main of seared wild sea bass or Aberdeen Angus beef steak, then the Chip’s self-styled Caledonian oatmeal ice-cream to finish. You can thank us later.