I visited the Glasgow Italian named Pulcinella, today, having rather enjoyed my visit to the Edinburgh place of the same name, last year. As far as I’m aware, the two restaurants are connected only by their punchy moniker.

Exterior

On the corner of Hope Street and West George Street, the place has a settled and homely feel. Chequered table cloths abound, and the tricolore is to the fore.

They offer a keenly priced lunch menu, with a good array of choices. I opted for the arancini to start then followed with their lasagna, having briefly toyed with the idea of a lunchtime pizza.

Arancini

My smiling and attentive waiter soon brought the starter, which comprised two crisp coated rice balls, that combined a good bite with melting ooze of mozzarella. It was a tasty opener.

Things continued on a sure footing with the lasagna, which was served volcanically hot. I let it settle for a good minute or two before attempting my first attack. Even then, the first forkful went to war with the roof of my mouth. Once it had eventually cooled to an eatable temperature, it proved to be a heartily good dish.

Lasagna

I rounded things out with espresso, which was of the disappointing variety.

So overall, I liked Pulcinella. It’s treading a familiar road, but doing so to a pretty good standard. I’d be happy to visit again and would point you in the direction of the place next time you’re looking for a home-style Italian lunch at an attractive price.

Scores
Blythe scores the
3.5/5 for food
3/5 for presentation
3.5/5 for setting
3.5/5 for service
giving an overall 13.5/20

I ate: arancini, lasagna

I drank: water, espresso

I wore: blue and red

Total bill: £7.95