Named after a celebrated Scottish dance number much favoured by traditional pipers (a framed version of the printed tune is pinned up in the bar), Babbity Bowster has become something of a Glasgow institution since it opened in 1985.

Occupying a discreetly restored Robert Adam house in the revitalised Merchant City quarter, it now combines the virtues of a small, boutique hotel with a bar/restaurant. It was one of the first pubs in Glasgow to take modern food seriously, but it still has the feel of a down-home boozer complete with real ales, live music and alfresco barbecues.

The downstairs area has something of the feel of a continental café/bistro transported to Scotland, and the menu offers a good range of wholesome dishes ranging from Cullen skink and haggis with neeps 'n tatties to potted rabbit, croque monsieur and roast duck on haricot beans. The airy upstairs restaurants (evenings only) offers a similar range but with some more ambitious dishes added to the mix.

Babbity Bowster is also featured in: Michelin Guide, AA Guide

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Gastro pub

Jean Claude Marcoccio

Dinner: from 6.30pm Tue-Sat

Visa, Master Card, American Express

• Alfresco dining
• Disabled access
• Private parties
• Vegetarian menu

Accomodation is available, (6 rooms)