Gloriosa
Glasgow, Strathclyde
Effortlessly stylish Gloriosa occupies an airy corner site within a cluster of independent eateries and quirky drinking establishments at the Kelvingrove end of Argyle Street. With floor-to-ceiling windows opening onto a homely little pavement terrace, it gives off a seductive Mediterranean vibe on sunny days. This carries through to the menu. Quality local ingredients are combined with a breezy, casual simplicity and lightness of touch that understates the depth of flavour achieved. Thanks to some confident technique, this gives dishes such as a salad of garden-crisp radish, pea shoots and sorrel or delicate poached chicken with dandelion and tarragon an almost ethereal quality. It may not conjure up Wimbledon or a royal garden party, but it’s certainly the classiest of picnics. Larger dishes such as perfectly charred baby lamb chops on meltingly soft, spiced aubergine take us to the Med’s southern shores, while grilled mackerel with pungent ajo blanco and pickled grapes references Spain's Moorish influences. Of course, Italy isn't overlooked – witness silky hand-made tagliatelle swathed in a violet artichoke ragù with pleasingly ovine pecorino. The dessert list is small, perfectly formed and matched to the season – a strawberry and cream choux bun epitomising summer on a plate. Food this tasty calls out for similarly thoughtful drinks: the largely ‘natural’ wine list, from small boutique wineries, is an imaginatively curated and kindly priced compendium with strong Old World influences, while spritzes and sours maintain the European aperitivo tradition. Service is informed and friendly, with a relaxed, mixed crowd of diners and drinkers reinforcing that easy continental atmosphere.
Dining Information:
Counter seating, Wheelchair access, Family friendly, Dog friendly
1321 Argyle Street, Glasgow, Strathclyde G3 8TL
0141 334 0593
