A Coffee Lover’s Guide To Glasgow
Glasgow is a vibrant city that’s buzzing with energy, home to some of the friendliest characters and most welcoming locals you’ll ever meet, and brimming with brilliant food, and a thriving coffee scene. The city has an excellent blend of locally-loved institutions that have stood the test of time, along with exciting newer openings that have added fresh options to the city’s cafe menu. Here are a few of my favourite spots to sip the best coffee Glasgow has to offer.
Laboratorio Espresso
An absolute gem right in the heart of the city. Be drawn in by it’s beautifully minimalist aesthetic, and forget you’re only moments from Glasgow Central Station. The location couldn’t be better if you’re exploring the centre of the city, seeking a caffeine fix to fuel an afternoon shopping, or passing the time before hopping on a train. Don’t let the central location fool you, even serious coffee aficionados will be satisfied here. A ‘special’ espresso rotates weekly, showcasing roasters from across Europe. A selection of cakes and pastries make the perfect accompaniment.
Where to find it: 93 West Nile Street, G1 2SH.
Visit: laboratorioespresso.com
Papercup Coffee Company
Papercup has deservedly become one of the west end’s best and most popular coffee and brunch spots, serving ethically and sustainably sourced coffee. Papercup’s commitment to ethical sourcing extends to it’s food menu with brunch dished featuring organic meats and farm fresh eggs as well as plentiful vegan options and plant-based milks to suit all tastes and diets. If you’re a visitor to the city, Papercup is a perfectly placed spot to refuel before a wander across the University of Glasgow campus, a stroll down Ashton Lane or a meander through the botanic gardens.
Where to find it: 603 Great Western Road, G12 8HX.
Visit: papercupcoffee.co.uk
Kaf
Kaf is a small but perfectly formed speciality coffee shop and bakery – serving single origin coffee, excellent sourdough and beautifully baked pastries that practically cry out to be photographed. The aesthetic and menu have a Scandinavian feel, with a clean minimalist design, beautifully presented baked goods, and a sandwich lineup of seasonally rotating fillings (usually including vegan options) Take note: space and seating is minimal, so come for take-away or plan your timing very wisely. You can order ahead online if you’re picking up coffee and treats to go.
Where to find it: 5 Hyndland Street, G11 5QE.
Visit: kafcoffee.co.uk
BAM Glasgow
For those who love vintage and retro wares as well as great coffee, BAM has got you covered. The coffee shop combined with vintage shop is filled with delights – from handpicked vintage gems, gifts and homewares, to a coffee menu with espresso from guest roasters, perfectly served alongside delicious cakes. If I could live in here I absolutely would.
Where to find it: 4 Nithsdale Rd, Glasgow G41 2AN
Visit: bamglasgow.co.uk
Good Coffee Cartel
The Good Coffee Cartel is a small batch coffee roaster, serving up some of the city’s best coffee with a friendly neighbourhood feel. They aim to do good in the coffee industry, partnering only with coffee suppliers that ensure ethical and sustainable practices in the beans they source. They are also pioneers in sustainability, having been at the forefront of reducing waste in their packaging since they opened in 2017, aiming to get as close to zero-waste as possible.
Where to find it: 12 Cornwall Street, G41 1AQ
Visit: thegoodcoffeecartel.com
Cafe Strange Brew
The self proclaimed “best brunch in the south and a damn fine cup of coffee” is hard to argue with. In addition to artisanal coffee, the brunch menu will have you spoiled for choice – with stacks of fluffy pancakes served with mouthwatering toppings like poached rhubarb, blood orange, honey and mascarpone. Savoury options include an array of inventively stacked toppings on sourdough toast, baked eggs and breakfast burritos. Plenty of options for veggie and vegan eaters, plus plant based milks on the drinks menu.
Where to find it: 1082 Pollokshaws Road, Shawlands G41 3XA
Visit: instagram.com/cafe_strange_brew
Kember & Jones
A west end institution – Kember and Jones has been serving quality coffee on Byres Road for literal decades. It holds a special place in my heart, as a former west-end resident, it holds many happy caffienated memories. I was even fortunate enough to learn my way around a coffee machine from a former Kember and Jones barista. The cafe offers an all day menu as well as a counter of freshly baked goods, and a small onsite deli. Aim to avoid peak times if you’re impatient about waiting for a table. My personal favourite spot is to snag a seat at the widow and enjoy people watching on bustling Byres Road outside.
Where to find it: 134 Byres Rd, Glasgow G12 8TD
Visit: shop.kemberandjones.co.uk
Short Long Black
The Southside has no shortage of good coffee spots, but IMO the best of the best is Short Long Black. Close to the front gates of Queen’s Park, its perfectly positioned to grab some fuel for a stroll through the park, and the welcome boost of caffeine will help you scale the hill to Glasgow’s highest peak at the flagpole lookout point. The baked goods at Short Long Black are not to be missed. The window display is packed with temptation – the chocolate, peanut butter and coconut cookie is my personal MVP – along with gloriously flaky pastries with sweet and savoury options, cinnamon buns, banana bread, and enormous foccacia sandwiches for savoury lovers. In summer they serve up iced coffees as well as soft serve ice cream in a rotating array of delicious flavours – the perfect way to cool off if you’re lucky enough to catch a hot day here.
Where to find it: 501 Victoria Road, G42 8RL
Visit: instagram.com/shortlongblackcoffee
The Glad Cafe
This Shawlands cafe, and adjoining vintage shop, are another Southside staple. After browsing the retro wares, stop in for great coffee and food – with pastries and cakes supplied by celebrated local Big Bear Bakery and a fully vegan menu of brunch and lunch options. Beers on tap typically feature beloved Scottish breweries like Williams Bros Brewing Co. The space is laid back and inviting, often frequented by locals and creatives, giving it a real neighbourhood feel. It also offers regular film screenings, plays and gigs from local performers – so make sure to keep an eye out for events.
Visit: thegladcafe.co.uk
Sunny Acre
Another standout in the Southside’s coffee scene, Sunny Acre has established a loyal local following thanks to its excellent coffee, delicious menu of brunch/lunch items and appetising baked goods, all wrapped up inside an aesthetically pleasing space. In a city that is famed for the friendliness of it’s residents, the friendly staff and great service here still manage to stand out.
Where to find it: 745 Pollokshaws Rd, Glasgow G41 2AA
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