Categories > Guides and Tips
Glasgow’s 12 Tapas Joints So Good, You’ll Forget about the Mains (or not, we won’t judge!)
Glasgow’s tapas joints are like that one friend who insists they don’t want fries and then proceeds to eat yours (we all know the type). These places are so delightful that you’ll find yourself wondering, “Main course? Pfft, why bother?”
That is, until your stomach makes decisions, your brain might be too buzzed on sangria (or is it Irn Bru?) to negotiate. So, ditch the map and check out our list, and don’t forget to grab your stretchiest pair of pants, ’cause you’ll be needing those!
And remember, we won’t judge if you can’t resist diving into a main dish afterwards; after all, who said adventures have to have limits?
Café Andaluz
Website: http://www.cafeandaluz.com/
Address: 12-15 St Vincent Pl
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Cost: £-££
You can’t talk about tapas in Glasgow without a shoutout to Café Andaluz. Their selection of tapas is pretty broad and seriously good.
Whether you’re after some classic chorizo al vino, some killer gambas pil pil, Albondigas (spicy meatballs, because who doesn’t like meatballs? ), or croquetas de jamón, they’ve got it all covered.
Plus, they throw in some vegetarian options that are anything but boring. For all the cheese lovers, the Queso de Cabra al is a dream—that’s the grilled round of goat’s cheese, just so we’re on the same page.
Pro tip: If you’re planning a bash or fancy gathering, their Private Dining & Groups option is a Spanish soirée to remember. Their vibrant spaces scream fiestas, making any event unforgettable.
And hey, if you’re looking to spread some love, you can snag a gift voucher.
Ox and Finch
Website: http://www.oxandfinch.com/
Address: 920 Sauchiehall St, Finnieston
Contact details: +44 141 339 8627
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Cost: ££
Ox and Finch isn’t your typical tapas spot, but man, do they nail it with their small plates concept! Their sharing plates are where it’s at; try the lemon and parsley gordal olives or their fried artichokes if you’re feeling a little adventurous.
Now, listing some of their standout dishes: the 200g dry aged rump fillet is just decadent, and the Charlotte potatoes and blood orange and fennel panzanella offer a nice, lighter touch.
Pro tip: If you love a good pairing, don’t forget to ask for their wine recommendations for each dish. The staff really knows their stuff and can steer you towards some spectacular wine matches.
Green Gates Cafe
Website: https://greengatescafe.com/
Address: 24 Candleriggs
Contact details: +44 141 548 6883
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 4 PM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 10:30 PM
- Sunday – 2 PM to 10 PM
Cost: £-££
Green Gates Cafe is all about homestyle Indian tapas, and I’m not kidding when I say it’s a flavour explosion. The paneer butter masala, bharwa peppers and tandoori king prawn are star dishes that keep everyone coming back for more.
And if you’re a fan of samosa, you’re in luck because theirs are crispy and so good. The menu doesn’t stop there, since you can also aim for their sweet and salad offerings, plus a kids menu if you have a little one in tow.
Moreover, the mixed grill is great for when you want a little bit of everything because choosing is just too tough.
Pro tip: If you’re into spicy food, tell them how hot you want your dishes; they’re pretty accommodating. And yes, reservations are key at Green Gates, especially on the weekends.
Las Iguanas
Website: https://www.iguanas.co.uk/restaurants/glasgow
Address: 16-20 W Nile St.
Contact details: +44 141 732 7045
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Cost: ££
Las Iguanas has that Latin American flair that you just can’t overlook. For a start, their honey peri-peri chicken wings are simply epic and unbelievably tasty.
They also serve up some wickedly good popcorn squid, and their patatas bravas come with a twist—a kick of lime and chipotle sauce that really pops.
Beyond that, you can also opt for their calamari, jalapeño poppers, or nachos, which are just the ticket if you’re with a crew.
Pro tip: Don’t just walk into Las Iguanas without checking out their bottomless tapas offering – it’s a feast you’ll kick yourself for missing. Also, you’ll want to hit up their happy hour for two-for-one cocktails; it’s a total win-win.
Malaga Tapas
Website: https://malagatapasglasgow.co.uk/
Address: 213-215 St Andrews Rd.
Contact details: +44 141 429 4604
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM
Cost: £-££
Malaga offers tapas that are kind of out of this world. Here, you’ll get to taste the melt-in-your-mouth chorizo al vino or the crowd-pleaser, tortilla Española.
They’ve got quite a lineup that also includes pollo ala crema and seafood options like Mejillones and Hilos de Ternera for meat lovers. Moreover, be sure not to skip dessert, especially their Tarta Santiago.
This homemade Spanish almond cake is a slice of heaven, ending your meal on a sweet, almond-infused high note!
Pro tip: If you don’t feel like going out, you can take advantage of Malaga’s takeout and delivery services. Not only is this convenience at its finest, but they also offer lower prices.
Barca Tapas and Cava Bar
Website: http://www.barcatapas.co.uk/
Address: 2nd Princes Square, 48 Buchanan St.
Contact details: +44 141 248 6555
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 12 PM to 8 PM
- Thursday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 7:30 PM
Cost: ££
Barca Tapas is all about soaking up those chic and contemporary vibes along with some top-notch tapas. They get it right, with stunning views over the city and a menu that’ll make your mouth water.
Their tapas spread covers everything from the classic gambas pil pil and patatas bravas to the finest jamon iberico, Choricitos Barça Tapas and croquetas de jamón.
Pro tip: If you can’t decide what to order, go for the ‘Menu del Día’. It gives you the chance to enjoy three tapas at a sweet price. And hey, if you’re around for a special occasion, they offer private dining that’s pretty snazzy.
Cubatas
Website: http://cubatas.co.uk/
Address: 108 Elderslie St.
Contact details: +44 141 573 0114
Operating hours:
- Thursday – 5 PM to 10 PM
- Friday – 2 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 1 PM to 10 PM
Cost: £-££
Cubatas nails the Spanish vibe, with a menu that’s a total fiesta for your taste buds. I mean, they’ve got these gambas pil pil that are just sizzling with garlic goodness, and their tortilla Española is legit.
Plus, you can’t miss out on their Croquetas de Chorizo y Champiñones; it’s that perfect combo of crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
Now, if you’re steering clear of gluten or you’re all about that veggie life, Cubatas has your back. Seriously, they gladly accommodate those with dietary needs in mind.
Pro tip: You can pop in any day of the week for their “7 Days Treat,” where you’ll score yourself 3 tapas and 2 cocktails. It’s pretty much the perfect excuse to grab a couple of friends and make any day feel like the weekend.
Elena’s Spanish Bar and Restaurant
Website: http://www.elenastapas.com/
Address: 90 Old Dumbarton Rd.
Contact details: +44 141 237 4730
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Cost: ££
Elena’s Spanish Bar and Restaurant is the kind of place where the tapas don’t just taste good; they feel good, too. Now, if you’re into sharing (or not, I don’t judge), their tapas spread is perfect for trying a little bit of everything.
Gambas al ajillo, croquetas variadas, and their signature patatas: bravas o ali-oli (which can be made vegan or gluten-free) are all on point. And let’s not forget their mouthwatering Pinchos morunos de pollo (chicken skewers)—it’s a must-try, seriously.
Pro tip: Remember to aim for Elena’s 3-for-2 deal, which is available from Monday to Friday.
This is where you can snag three dishes for the price of two, making it the perfect opportunity to dive deep into their Spanish cuisines without playing tug-of-war with your wallet.
Boteco Do Brasil
Website: http://www.botecodobrasil.com/
Address: 62 Trongate
Contact details: +44 141 406 4561
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 3 AM
Cost: £-££
Boteco do Brasil is your go-to if you’re craving a mix of Brazilian and Spanish tapas with a lively atmosphere. Their menu is a fun exploration of flavours featuring the crowd’s favourites like coxinha de frango, feijoada, and even burgers and pizza.
They nail the platters too, with their pescado chef and picanha familia. Plus, the live music and DJ sets really set the mood for a fun night out with friends.
Now, let’s talk about drinks because Boteco isn’t playing around here. Their cocktail list is a fun ride, with classics like the caipirinha and reggae rum punch leading the charge.
Pro tip: When you’re planning your next outing to Boteco Do Brasil, absolutely do not forget to ask about their Circle Card. This little gem gets you sweet deals and discounts, making each sip of caipirinha or a bite of feijoada even more enjoyable.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
Website: http://www.brutticompadres.com/
Address: 1TS, 3 Virginia Ct
Contact details: +44 141 552 1777
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday – 4 PM to 12 AM
- Wednesday to Sunday – 12 PM to 12 AM
Cost: ££
Brutti Compadres might just be one of the coolest stops for tapas in Glasgow. This little spot exudes a laid-back, intimate vibe that’s perfect for a catch-up or a low-key date.
Here, you can stuff yourself with goodies like the Brutti tortilla, vegetable paella, patatas bravas, and the ever-so-tender scallops. They’re pretty serious about their wines and cocktails too, matching the food perfectly.
Pro tip: Brutti Compadres isn’t just about delicious small plates; it’s also super dog-friendly. So, you can enjoy a relaxed meal in a place that loves your pooch as much as you do.
Pescado tapas
Website: https://pescadotapas.com/
Address: 9 -41 Hyndland St, Partick
Contact details: +44 141 337 3135
Operating hours:
- Tuesday and Wednesday, Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Thursday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 12 AM
Cost: £-££
Pescado tapas is where it’s at if you love your dishes with a touch of sophistication. This place has a whole Mediterranean vibe going on, and they do seafood like nobody’s business.
Their variety of tapas features mejillones, paella del dia, croquetas pescado, and more. You can also get yourself some fresh oysters and the classic pan-seared scallops, both of which are star dishes that are just full of flavour.
Pro tip: Their tapas deal menu offers great value, so check it out if you’re looking to enjoy a variety without stressing over the bill. Plus, they have a fantastic gin selection and cocktails to complement your meal.
Tinto Tapas Bar
Website: http://www.tintotapasbar.co.uk/
Address: 138 Battlefield Rd, Langside
Contact details: +44 141 636 6838
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Cost: £-££
Tinto Tapas Bar nails the traditional tapas experience with all your favourites on the menu. Their tapas lineup is seriously impressive, featuring their signature Sopa del dia, tostada, Paella del Dia, and the Gambas con Meil (king prawns).
The vibe here is always dynamic, making it a fun place to relax and unwind, whether you’re with friends or flying solo.
Pro tip: Before making your way to Tinto Tapas Bar, check out their website for the current tapas deals. They’ve often got some pretty sweet specials that could totally upgrade your dining experience.
