Meat Bar

I’d had a rather hectic flurry of late-morning activity, today, meaning that it was gone 1:30pm before I had a chance to contemplate lunch. Fortunately, I’d spotted a likely looking place on my walk from the train station to our Glasgow office, having circuitously walked past Meat Bar, on West Regent Street.

Exterior

Their stylish basement setting is a little like Shebeen, in Edinburgh, as both are seeking to emulate the classic steakhouse feel. Meat Bar is slightly more spacious, with a blend of high seats, tables and booths. I sat near the window, at a high table.

Service was quick, friendly and efficient, throughout. I’d spotted my likely main course on their daily offers board outside, which made mention of a manchego-topped pulled pork roll. I started with their corn chowder, to which I added bacon bits on top, following a steer from the waiter.

Soup

My soup was soon with my, in voluminous supply. It was a meal in itself. It proved to be very tasty indeed, with lovely creaminess from the corn, nice added crispyness from the bacon, and a warmingly wholesome overall feel.

The pulled pork sandwich was very good, too. The structural integrity of the roll did not quite hold, but this was because the pork was just so moist and juicy. While the pork was packed with flavour, the accompanying cheese didn’t really hold up, and it could have used a crunch element on the roll.

Pulled pork sandwich

I think Bespoke BBQ’s version still wins for me, not least because they have all of the elements of their sandwich working together harmoniously.

So overall, I was impressed with the Meat Bar. I didn’t avail myself of their core meaty items, like their burgers, sliders, or steak, but I still got a fair measure of the place. I found it quite stylish and refined, and they even seemed to cater fairly decently for vegetarians, which was a nice surprise. I’d happily go back, next time I’m in town, and would be happy to recommend you pay them a visit.

Scores
Blythe scores Meat Bar
4/5 for food
4/5 for presentation
4/5 for service
4/5 for setting
giving an overall 16/20

I ate: corn chowder; pulled pork and manchego sandwich

I drank: sparkly water

I wore: www.tieclub.co.uk tie

Total bill: £13.60