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March 5, 2014
[Central Station is to have a coffee shop on Gordon Street.][1]
Central Station is to have a coffee shop on Gordon Street.

There is some interesting news coming down the line from Central Station where two new food and drink venues are scheduled to open this spring.

Operators Glendola, who already operate a number of establishments including Waxy O’Connor’s, Carlton George Hotel, Horton’s & Frankenstein’s, have started work on a new artisan coffee shop and a new bar and restaurant at the station’s Gordon Street entrance.

The coffee bar, which will sit in the premises formerly occupied by Boots, will roast its own beans on site.

However, for the 5pm Dining blog, the really exciting news is that the new Alston Bar & Beef restaurant will be located in the basement of Glasgow Central Station – an area previously undeveloped since the station was built over the original Grahamston Village in the 1800’s.

Vaults beneath the concourse

Customers will enter through a large door within the main Gordon Street entrance – opposite the ticket office – and will descend into the stunning open vaults found beneath the main concourse.

Inspired by the name of the old Glasgow village’s main street, Alston Bar & Beef plans to serve the finest cuts of beef and a huge range of gins from around the world, including the city’s largest number of Scottish gins under one roof.

Glasgow’s best place for gin

Matthew Mustard, general manager at Alton Bar & Beef, said:

‘Alston Bar & Beef will be a great addition to Glasgow. Across the continent, train stations are well known for offering fresh and tasty food and drink, and we plan to do the same with Alston Bar & Beef.

‘Alston will offer the finest cuts of beef from Scottish producers and complement them with a wider menu of dishes inspired by Scotland’s larder. The bar will be one of Glasgow’s best places for gin; not only will we have the largest collection of gins, but we will also be known for the perfect presentation – from the right glass, ice style and garnish to bring out the gin’s individual flavours. It will be a great place to meet, eat and drink in the city centre.’

Over £1million is to be invested in the two new ventures which will employ around 40 full time and part time staff.

The aim is to open in early May.