There are some combinations that everyone knows about - salt and pepper, toast and butter and Sonny and Cher. Perhaps a less famous combination is seafood and gin, but that has not stopped The Finnieston in Glasgow from becoming one of the city’s most loved restaurants.
Describing itself as a sustainable Scottish seafood restaurant premier gin bar, The Finnieston is found on bustling Argyle Street, in a striking blue building which has been around since the 1800s. It is a moody and masculine subterranean space, punctuated by a mixture of exposed bricks, wood-panelled walls and cosy leather studded booths separated by ornate glass screens. There is also a standalone bar that is stacked high will all manner of alcoholic beverages, as well as The Finnieston’s proud collection of more than 60 premium gins from around the world.
While the selection of tipples available is surely enough to tempt gin lovers here, there is more than enough on the menu to seduce foodies too, thanks to The Finnieston’s selection of seasonal and sustainably sourced Scottish seafood, paired with only the best local produce. The menu here evolves with the seasons and consists of a number of small plates that are designed to share among the table. Although the offering changes often, you might find the likes of dressed oysters, fries topped with manchego and truffle or whitebait served with lemon mayonnaise.
There are a few more substantial sharing plates available too, such as a buttermilk fried chicken burger lashed with sriracha mayonnaise, salt and chilli soft shell crab, or whole grilled sea bass with rocket and watercress, charred lemon and garlic butter. There are a few vegetarian and vegans options too, including a burger made with meat-free brand Moving Mountains.
To round off your meal, tuck into sweet treats such as white chocolate and praline semifreddo or treat yourself to another gin.