Glasgow has emerged as one of the UK’s best cities for a night out over recent years, and that’s doubly true if you happen to be looking for a romantic spot for a date night to remember. The city really knows how to set the scene for a truly magical night out – you just need to know where to look.
Whether you’re on the hunt for traditional Scottish cuisine to celebrate an anniversary, MICHELIN-starred fine dining to woo that someone special, fresh local seafood for a first date or a lively atmosphere with a fancy cocktail and meal to match for a stellar night out, the best romantic restaurants in Glasgow have it all.
There’s a date night spot to suit every taste and celebratory occasion in this vibrant city. Discover the 10 best romantic restaurants in Glasgow that are guaranteed to impress your special someone, and book on OpenTable now.
The 10 best romantic restaurants in Glasgow for an unforgettable date night – read on for a guide
For one of the best romantic restaurants in Glasgow for seafood – book a table at iasg restaurant at the Blythswood in Blythswood Hill
Located at the hotel, iasg restaurant at the Blythswood is the ideal spot for those seeking a romantic, intimate dining experience centred around sustainable Scottish seafood and an attractive cocktail menu. The restaurant’s name is derived from the word for fish in Gaelic and shows the commitment of the restaurant to serve only the finest that Scotland’s waters have to offer. The well-known Glaswegian whit flows through the air here, providing an inviting and lively atmosphere – one that goes down particularly well on a first date. Here you can sample some of head chef Sean Currie’s expert dishes, where the fresh produce is cooked to perfection. Check out the succulent scallops, steamed Shetland mussels and grilled monkfish satay, which all showcase the fantastic skills and dedication the team has.
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For classic British dishes at a glamorous date spot – head to Ralph and Finns in the city centre
Ralph and Finns is a sophisticated and modern bar-restaurant set in a classic Glasgow style townhouse, which makes it an ideal spot for a romantic evening. This glamorous neighbourhood gem exudes elegance while serving up classic dishes and innovative cocktails. Head chef Kevin O’Neill has a keen eye for the finest local produce in Scotland and seamlessly brings together top-quality ingredients with international flair, presenting a menu filled with delights. Come nightfall, the restaurant transforms into a statement late-night destination, offering character-infused cocktails around a stunning 22-seater marble bar. Couples can come and savour a top selection of whiskies in the Whisky Room or book for lunch or dinner in the cosy Garden Room. Don’t miss popular dishes such as the barra king scallops to start, and the rainbow trout fillet and red deer venison tenderloin mains. With its exquisite ambience, fine cuisine, and variety of rooms to choose from, Ralph and Finns ensures a romantic rendez-vous like no other.
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For one of the top date night spots in Glasgow for Scottish seafood – head down to KELP on Cowcaddens Road
With an AA Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence and a mission to bring Scotland’s best and most sustainably sourced seafood to Glasgow, KELP is one of the best date night restaurants in Glasgow for seafood lovers. The restaurant is perfectly lit for a romantic setting, with comfy seating, large ocean-themed murals lining the walls and framed paintings adding a touch of colour to your surroundings. The market menu features some of the finest seafood the city has to offer. Popular dishes include the immaculately presented oysters served with a range of different vinaigrettes, like cucumber, lime, and lemongrass. The small plates, meanwhile, are perfect for sharing on a date, such as Tobermory smoked trout, Barra scallops, Orkney crab doughnut and sardines Bolognese. Pair your food with some of the finest white wines, with popular bottles from Italy, France, Spain and South Africa on the menu, and it’s sure to be a date to remember.
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For a romantic brunch with extravagant cocktails – book a table at Champagne Central in central Glasgow
Housed in the famous Grand Central Hotel, a meal at Champagne Central is all about sophisticated style, good food and great champagne. Designed to evoke the Golden Age of travel, with grand columns, winding marble staircases and crystal chandeliers, the champagne bar overlooks the old Central Station, so you can sip on a crisp glass of champagne or an expertly-made cocktail as you watch the world go by beneath you. When it comes to the food, the menu here focuses on small plates, sharing boards and afternoon teas, perfect for a casual date or to mark a special occasion. Each plate and board perfectly complement the enticing drinks menu, with beetroot cured salmon, Thai fishcakes and black pudding and haggis bon bons some of the most popular dishes. Brunch is served between 9:30-13:30 from Friday to Sunday, with smashed avocado and poached eggs, or smoked salmon and scrambled egg always going down a treat, especially when paired with a selection of cocktails, prosecco, or champagne.
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For one of the best romantic restaurants in Glasgow for local Scottish cuisine – don’t miss Number 16 Restaurant in West End
Number 16 Restaurant has everything you’re looking for in a modern, classy, and vibrant spot, making it perfect for a romantic night out. This cosy gem specialises in modern European and local Scottish cuisine and never fails to wow guests with its beautifully crafted dishes. Choose from a set or à la carte menu, with the former including local starters such as cured Scottish salmon and duck leg terrine and mains including slow cooked pork belly or the roast breast of chicken. Make sure you leave room for dessert, with the chestnut cheesecake with pear sorbet one of the most popular choices. The à la carte menu also offers up local delicacies, like North Sea cod or rump of Scotch beef and crispy ox cheek, that really hit the spot. The inviting ambience of this small but charming restaurant is the icing on the cake. Cosy and welcoming, it’s the ideal place for an intimate meal, a second date or a relaxing lunch date after a busy week.
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For one of the best romantic restaurants in Glasgow for contemporary British cuisine – book a table at The Ivy Buchanan Street Glasgow in the city centre
The Ivy Buchanan Street Glasgow is located across the road from George Square and within walking distance of Glasgow Queen Street station. Its interiors call to mind an Art Deco-style jazz bar, complete with decorated mirrors, stained glass windows and fabulous modern contemporary art, making it one of the best date night restaurants in Glasgow. The food is just as enticing, with an all-day set menu showcasing delights such as the hot smoked salmon rillette starter, the Ivy original shepherd’s pie with slow-braised lamb, and a crème brûlée for dessert. You can also choose from a range of liqueurs and gins to accompany your food, depending on what you’re in the mood for. The a la carte menu features a selection of seasonal specials, as well as classics including duck parfait and venison tartare starters, plus the Scottish smoked haddock and salmon fishcakes – both real local favourites.
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For modern Indian cuisine – book a table for two at Namaste by Delhi Darbar in Glasgow city centre
Namaste by Delhi Darbar brings you some of the finest Indian cuisine in the city, where traditional dishes and modern adaptations are combined with creative cocktails. This bustling bistro brings people together to enjoy delicious food and lively conversation, making it a great place for a romantic meal out. Here you can experiment with artisan cocktails and a range of lunch and dinner menus that will leave you spoilt for choice. The Hariyali chicken tikka, king prawn tandoori, and masala lamb chops really bring out the traditional Indian flavours, while more adventurous diners may want to check out the seafood curries, where Goan monkfish and tandoori haddock are teamed with a range of flavoursome spices. Known for being one of the most romantic restaurants in Glasgow thanks to its inviting atmosphere, traditional Indian decor and great food, Namaste is also a top spot for first-rate cocktails, like the Fire & Spice, made with goji berry liqueur, spiced gin, dragon fruit puree and lemon juice.
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For one of the best date night restaurants in Glasgow – visit Hazel on George Street
If you’re looking for a stylish getaway for two in the heart of the city, look no further than Hazel – an enchanting hotspot that promises a date night to remember. The vibe here is a blend of contemporary elegance and warm intimacy, with soft lighting and tasteful decor creating an inviting ambience. Stop by the stunning marble bar to try a signature cocktail: the Hazel 75 made with gin, grapefruit liqueur and prosecco is sure to set the tone for a sultry evening. The menu features creative small plates that are perfect for sharing with a special someone, such as sausage croquettes, king scallops, and a crispy cauliflower tempura with sweet chilli glaze that really hits the spot for a romantic night out. The main courses offer an array of indulgent dishes such as the pork belly filled with date and chorizo or the spiced cauliflower with turmeric, pomegranate, and harissa hummus. The attentive staff at Hazel ensure a seamless dining experience, making it an ideal destination for couples looking for a memorable night out in the heart of Glasgow.
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For a romantic spot with live music – try Cask and Clyde at the Double-Tree by Hilton on Cambridge Street
Cask and Clyde restaurant is known for its lively atmosphere – particularly if you’re lucky enough to visit when the live band is playing – making it the ideal choice for a fun date night. The menu showcases a perfect fusion of local flavours and global inspiration. For a romantic culinary adventure, don’t miss the truffle-infused flatbread and the oysters Rockefeller. The main courses are a celebration of fine dining, with options like sumptuous lamb shank or perfectly grilled Scottish salmon. On weekends you can pop in for the afternoon tea menu, which is great for a casual late afternoon date. Don’t forget to pair your meal with something from the thoughtfully curated drinks menu, which boasts an impressive selection of fine wines, craft beers and classic cocktails. The decor features a blend of rustic charm and contemporary allure, with dim lighting, exposed brick walls, and cosy seating arrangements adding plenty of charm to a romantic date night.
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For one of the best romantic restaurants in Glasgow for contemporary Scottish cuisine – check out Mharsanta in Merchant City
Found in the vibrant area of Merchant City, Mharsanta offers diners a genuine Scottish culinary experience. The restaurant is fully dedicated to sourcing the finest local produce and ingredients, ensuring every diner is treated to the very best that Scotland has to offer. The menu showcases a range of tasty local delicacies, from popular dishes such as mussels and scallops to traditional homemade fish and chips, freshly caught that day, and the famous steak and sausage pie. Pair your local dishes with some homemade cocktails to take your meal to the next level – try the misty isle, made with Talisker 10, burnt pineapple, sparkling coconut water and aromatic sugar kelp. Delivering the heart of Scotland to your plate, Mharsanta is the place to come if you’re looking to sample perfectly executed local dishes.
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Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot for a first date or are on the hunt for a memorable place to mark a special occasion, the best romantic restaurants in Glashow won’t disappoint when it comes to creating the mood for love. From world-class dishes created with sustainably sourced local produce to grand champagne bars and delicious world cuisine, be prepared to be swept off your feet in this lively city.