Since opening its doors to the gig going public in 2013, the Hydro has become an iconic piece of Glasgow. The spaceship shaped silver dome has brought the biggest music stars in the world to the city, including Beyonce, Prince, Madonna, and many more.
A gig at the Hydro is a night to remember – the round 12,000 seat stadium is a sight to behold, and artists must put on a big show to accommodate the space. Part of the whole experience is the meal before the gig; luckily Finnieston is one of Glasgow’s most thriving dining spots and has a range of bars and restaurants to choose from.
We’ve listed our picks for pre gig dining in Finnieston below.
Porter & Rye
Part of the Finnieston strip of Argyle Street, Porter & Rye is one of the chic and hip restaurants which have been responsible for the area’s burgeoning culinary reputation over the last few years. Intimate and flatteringly dimly lit, it has a stylish decor that is half old school Manhattan steak house and half post-industrial warehouse. Porter & Rye carefully source the finest Scotch beef and dry age it in-house for a minimum of 50 days, sometimes up to 120 days. This beef is available in several cuts, some designed for sharing, and served with sides, sauces and the customer’s choice of steak knife.
20% a la carte discount + wine or beer at Porter & Rye on 5pm Dining.
Fanny Trollopes
A bustling neighbourhood bistro, Fanny Trollopes focuses on honest and seasonal Scottish food that is locally sourced and skillfully prepared. Fanny Trollopes prioritises ingredients which are sourced locally and dishes change daily depending on what is available from local producers.
£16 for 2 courses on pre-theatre + glass of wine at Fanny Trollopes on 5pm Dining.
The Scullery
Since joining the esteemed Finnieston dining scene, The Scullery has gained popularity due to its laid back setting and stylish, innovative dishes. The menu shows a commitment to local produce and specials are constantly updated but may include rump of Dornoch lamb with rock salt mash, young leeks and carrots or Orkney sea scallops with roast onion consommé, and asparagus risotto with garden peas, mint and parmesan.
20% evening menu discount at The Scullery on 5pm Dining.
India Quay
Feast your eyes on the above. All of it (and more) can be yours thanks to India Quay’s buffet. Plus, the restaurant is just across the road from the Hydro.
£14.95 pre concert buffet at India Quay on 5pm Dining.
La Rotunda
You don’t get more conveniently located for the Hydro than La Rotunda – it is situated right next door on the ground floor of the historic Rotunda building. La Rotunda serves Italian dishes which are created in the restaurant’s open kitchen – house specialities include the stone baked pizzas and fresh Scottish seafood done in a simple Italian style.
£18.95 for 2 courses on set evening menu + glass of wine at La Rotunda on 5pm Dining.
ReCESS – Hilton Garden Inn
With a fabulous Clydeside outdoor dining area with view of the Squinty Bridge, ReCESS in the Hilton Garden Inn is particularly special on warm summer’s days. Just a minute’s walk from the Hydro, it is also conveniently located for a pre gig meal. ReCESS’s menu offers a huge choice of dishes to suit everyone and include a range of burgers, sandwiches and main courses like fish and chips and steak frites.
_40% discount off main course dishes on a la carte menu at ReCESS – Hilton Garden Inn on 5pm Dini_ng.
The Mariner Bar & Restaurant
Right on the door of the SECC and Hydro, you couldn’t get a better location for pre-gig dining than The Mariner Bar & Restaurant in the Crown Plaza. It gives a nod to the ship building history of the Clyde through its sea-faring decor and has wonderful views across the river. The Mariner offers a hot table buffet with a carvery and other hot main courses like chilli con carne and grilled salmon, as well as a selection of starters and mains.
£39.99 2 person offer – starter + hot table carvery + glass of wine from The Mariner Bar & Restaurant
For more restaurant deals in Finnieston check out 5pm Dining.