Restaurant of the Week: The 78, 10 Kelvinhaugh St, Glasgow

The owner of The 78 has a further four vegan bars and kitchens in Glasgow, while the latest to the stable, Harmonium, popped up at the other end of the M8 in Leith.

Here’s what we thought of The 78.

Location

Just off Argyle Street in the popular Finnieston Strip area of the West End.

First Impressions

Bare brick walls, pot plants hanging on string from the windows, an open fireplace, chunky tables and church pews for seats. Quirky, but inviting.

Service

Friendly, fast, and delivered with a smile.

The menu changes regularly, but some staples remain. It’s a vegan restaurant but there’s enough here to keep carnivores satisfied. There is an extensive range of small plates, which also work as starters, such as charred cauliflower, smashed Szechuan cucumber and Padron peppers. There are four main courses and a range of desserts.

Taste

The confit tomatoes small plate seems pricey at £8, but it’s worth it. Heirloom tomatoes cooked with garlic, spices and herbs, and the accompanying borlotti beans, yoghurt, lemon and olive oil were surprisingly pleasant. The 78’s signature dish is its homemade burger, and neither of us can look past it. The classic comes with onions, beef tomato, lettuce, dill pickle and burger sauce, while the cheese and charred onion drops the tomato and pickle in favour of vegan cheese. Both are moreish and hit the spot.

Ambience

The layout and decor gives off a laid-back, homely atmosphere.

Something special

There’s a daily specials board, an extensive range of beers, and board games in the corner if you fancy hanging around after dinner. Live jazz features on Sundays.