It was happening. I was turning 30, and there was no going back. So why not celebrate in a new city?
Always on the hunt for a deal, we pulled up Ryan Air to see what flights were on sale (a version of travel roulette), closed our eyes, pointed to the screen, and before we knew it-we were on a flight for Glasgow! First day of a new decade in a new country.
We arrived at 7:30am (insert sleepy emoji here), and immediately went in search of… OK, well, we actually went in search of umbrellas because, you know, Scotland. But then, we went to find… COFFEE!
Coffee
the Steamie Coffee Roaster
Hipster values: Roasts small batch specialty coffee, ethically-sourced coffee beans, clean-eating menu with vegan and GF options
When I first walked into the Steamie Coffee Roasters, I was caught a little off-guard. Where was the counter? The barista? The people in aprons standing behind till machines? Instead of bending to the conformities of traditional coffee shop set-ups, this was a small rectangular room, walls lined with chairs/tables, pastry-covered wooden workshop tables and counters of coffee gear.
I stood for perhaps only a second, questioning my next move, when a woman standing next to the pastry table asked what I wanted. Ah. Here’s the barista. She invited me to sit by the window looking out on Argyle Stree, while she brought my Americano and lemon cake. In the corner, I could overhear a group of college students expressing dismay at their parents’ political views on intersectionality.
My husband loved the aeropress he ordered–so much so that he got their brew method from them. As a sucker for all things lemon, I would recommend the Lemon & Blueberry Loaf. Finally, consider stocking up on beans here-you never know when you need a new home roast.
Hours:
M-W, F: 8am-6pm
Thur: 8am-8pm
Sat: 9am-6pm
Sun: 10am-5pm
Morning Museum
Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
Hipster values: brings art to the public, features collections of local and Scottish artists
A highlight of Glasgow is its commitment to making art and culture available to the public at no cost. One such venue in Glasgow’s West End is the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. With over 22 themed galleries, you’ll have no trouble finding something to capture your fancy. Fun for the whole family, you can explore everything from ancient Egyptian sarcophagi to a Spitfire LA198 to impressive collections of Dutch and French masters.
For my husband, that was the stuffed animals on display (specifically the moose, reminiscent of his home-country of Canada). For me, it was the display of weaponry through the ages. And both of us appreciated the gallery about Scottish culture and art—what a great way to familiarize yourself with the beautiful country you’re visiting! I especially loved the work of the Scottish painters, seeing the moors through their eyes.
Plan to spend a couple hours here, and maybe even catch one of the daily recitals of the Kelvingrove Organ on Monday-Saturday at 1pm and on Sunday at 3pm. Afterward, why not take a turn around the park?
Hours:
Mon-Thurs, 10am-5pm
Fri, 11am-5pm
Sat, 10am-5pm
Sun, 11am-5pm
Lunch
Òran Mór
Hipster values: One-of-a-kind atmosphere, where else can you get a play, pint and pie?, creative dishes (ask if you need vegan options)
After working up an appetite from all that walking, you’ll want to head over to Òran Mór, for lunch. When we arrived, the bar was just opening for the day, and we were happy to get off our feet.
What used to be a church has now been converted into two restaurants, two bars and a venue for local theater/music/comedy. Its name means ‘great melody of life’ or ‘big song’ in Gaelic. One unique feature of this place is the lunchtime theater offer: ‘A Play, A Pie and A Pint.’ While we didn’t get to check it out on our trip, I recommend you check out their schedule here, especially if you’re a fan of pantos!
As for our trip, we visited the Brasserie Restaurant, where we tried our very first haggis, and I must say, it wasn’t bad! Though the food is good, the ambiance and history of the building, along with the wide range of venues, make this a unique stop for lunch.
Hours:
Sun-Thurs, 9am-2am
Fri-Sat, 9am-3am
Afternoon Activity
Glasgow Botanic Gardens
Hipster values: getting outside and breathing that fresh air!, obviously environmentally-friendly
Fortunately for you, this next activity isn’t too far. In fact, it’s just catty-corner from Òran Mór. Just cross two sidewalks, give a knock on the Tardis (you’ll know it when you see it), and head into the 200-year-old botanic garden.
In addition to a number of specialized gardens (Rose Garden, First Ladies Water Garden, Showcase Garden, etc.) and glasshouses to wander at your leisure, including the wrought iron Kibble Palace, you can visit a tea room for afternoon tea, stroll along the river, or attend eco events, like an eco printing and bookbinding masterclass. If you’re lucky, you’ll stumble upon the crocheted bench we found. It’s so nice of the Scottish to keep their lawn furniture warm…
Hours for Grounds:
Sun-Sat, 7am-dusk
Hours for Glasshouses:
Sun-Sat, 10am-6pm
Sun-Sat, 10am-4:15pm (winter)
Hours for Tearooms
Sun-Sat, 10am-6pm
Sun-Sat, 10am-4pm (winter)
Dinner
Hillhead Book Club
Hipster values: Where to begin? Unique decor and activities, creative food fusions, vegetarian menu, “honest food at honest prices,” solid rotation of local DJs
So where does a book lover go for dinner on her 30th birthday? To the Hillhead Book Club!
This unique restaurant presents so many good food options, it was hard to even pick what to go with! When we arrived, a friendly and easy-going server settled us in. My husband settled on the mac & cheese w/ coriander & chilli crust, and I went for the salad with avocado, spinach, spring onion w/ crispy bacon & balsamic vinegar (obviously, we were planning to share–mac & cheese & salad, perfect combo!).
All around us, the vibrant life of the restaurant throbbed. College students played ping pong in a corner of the second floor, groups huddled in darkened alcoves on overstuffed chairs. On the far wall, a movie was being projected, and all of this skirts a decent-sized bar. Combine the savory food with the unique surroundings, and this is a memorable night of eating!
Finally, keep an eye out for music shows and events at this venue, as well as special deals, like the “mac n cheese & mojitos” on weekdays 12-4pm.
