My recent trip to Lola & Livvy’s had given me a taste for places beneath the Glasgow Central Station bridge, so when I found myself in need of lunch in the city, today, I headed to the cafe bar in The Arches.

Serving the dining needs of this versatile arts space, The Arches has built a good reputation for excellence and value. Their cafe bar is split into two areas (funnily enough cafe and bar). The same menu is served in both, but I opted for the well-worn comfort of the bar.

Their specials board mentioned tomato and cumin soup so I opted to start with that. I couldn’t resist trying their pork and Buckfast burger to which I added smoked cheese at the suggestion of the helpful waitress.

The soup promptly arrived accompanied by fresh bread and herb butter. It was delicious with the earthy cumin wonderfully balancing the sweetness of the tomato. It rightfully takes its place in the hallowed halls of the Soupquest exceptionals.

The main course burger was really good, too. The accompanying wedge chips were gigantic and very tasty. The burger had excellent moisture and just enough notes of Buckfast sweetness to make the point.

So overall, I thought The Arches was absolutely outstanding. I look forward to visiting again soon, as there were plenty of other dishes on the menu that I wanted to try. I’d highly recommend paying the place a visit as I’m confident you’ll be as impressed as I was.

Scores
Blythe scores The Arches
4.5/5 for food
4/5 for presentation
4/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 16.5/20

I ate: tomato and cumin soup; pork and Buckfast burger with smoked cheese

I drank: sparkly water

I wore: black and red

Total bill: £12.60