The Social, Glasgow: Vibrant Cocktail Bar & Restaurant in Royal Exchange Square
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Glasgow’s Merchant City with creative drinks, sharable dishes, and a vibrant terrace overlooking the Gallery of Modern Art.
Located at 27 Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow's Merchant City, The Social is a stylish cocktail bar and restaurant known for its lively atmosphere, creative drinks, and diverse menu. It offers a vibrant late-night scene with live music, DJ events, and an inviting outdoor terrace overlooking the Gallery of Modern Art. The Social caters to a wide range of tastes with sharers, pizzas, burgers, and quirky cocktails, making it a popular spot for brunch, dinner, and social gatherings.
A brief summary to The Social
- 27 Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AJ, GB
- +441412222321
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 am
- Tuesday 11 am-4 am
- Wednesday 11 am-4 am
- Thursday 11 am-4 am
- Friday 11 am-4 am
- Saturday 10 am-4 am
- Sunday 10 am-4 am
Local tips
- Visit in summer to enjoy the outdoor terrace and al fresco dining in Royal Exchange Square’s Mediterranean-style atmosphere.
- Try the quirky signature cocktails like the Rubber Duck or Solero for a unique drink experience.
- Book ahead for weekend evenings or special events to secure a table in this popular venue.
- Check the event calendar for live music and DJ nights to combine dining with entertainment.
- Families are welcome during early hours when children accompanied by adults can dine until 8pm on weekdays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Social location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Social
A Hub of Social Dining and Nightlife in Merchant City
The Social sits prominently in Glasgow's bustling Royal Exchange Square, a cultural heart of the city known as Merchant City. This location places it within sight of the iconic Gallery of Modern Art, creating a dynamic backdrop that blends historic architecture with contemporary urban life. The venue thrives as a versatile space, welcoming guests from midday through the early hours with a lively yet stylish vibe. Its outdoor terrace, especially popular during warmer months, transforms the square into a Mediterranean-style café scene, complete with fairy lights that add a magical ambiance in winter.Culinary Offerings Designed for Sharing and Variety
The Social’s menu is crafted to encourage convivial dining experiences. It features a broad selection of dishes including wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, fresh salads, and a be sociable tapas menu designed for sharing. Breakfast and brunch options are also available, catering to early risers and casual diners alike. The kitchen’s open design allows guests to watch chefs hand-stretch pizzas and prepare meals to order, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices ensure inclusivity for diverse dietary preferences.Innovative Cocktails and Entertainment
Renowned for its inventive cocktail menu, The Social offers a range of quirky and avant-garde drinks, often garnished with playful touches like candyfloss or rubber ducks. Signature cocktails such as the Solero, Rubber Duck, and Haribru highlight the bar’s creativity and commitment to delivering memorable flavors. The venue also hosts regular live music and DJ nights, cultivating a vibrant nightlife atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd looking for entertainment alongside quality food and drinks.Welcoming Atmosphere and Attentive Service
The Social is celebrated for its friendly and professional staff who contribute to a welcoming environment. The management and team have been noted for their exceptional handling of situations, ensuring guest comfort and safety. The venue is family-friendly during certain hours, allowing children accompanied by adults until early evening. Free Wi-Fi is available, making it a convenient spot for casual work lunches or social meetups.Accessibility and Location Advantages
Situated in Glasgow city centre, The Social benefits from excellent transport links. It is within a five-minute walk of Queen Street Station and Buchanan Subway Station, with numerous bus stops nearby. This central location makes it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. The venue’s extended opening hours, often until 3 or 4 AM, provide ample opportunity to enjoy its offerings at any time of day or night.Community and Events
The Social actively engages with the local community by hosting themed events, festive celebrations, and special nights throughout the year. Its social media presence keeps patrons informed about upcoming happenings, ensuring a dynamic and ever-evolving calendar. Whether for a casual drink, a celebratory meal, or a lively night out, The Social offers an inclusive and vibrant setting that captures the spirit of Glasgow’s Merchant City.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tobacco Merchant's House
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Nelson Mandela Pl
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Walter Scott Monument
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St George's Tron Church of Scotland
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Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
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Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
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Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
Ramshorn Graveyard
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Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Ramshorn Graveyard, a hidden gem in the heart of Glasgow, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Glasgow Police Museum
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Explore the unique history of law enforcement at the Glasgow Police Museum, a must-see destination for history lovers and curious travelers alike.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
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Explore Glasgow's rich history with the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
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Tolbooth Steeple
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Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
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St Andrew's in the Square
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McLellan Galleries
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Barrowland Park
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Experience the charm of Barrowland Park, Glasgow's vibrant oasis featuring art, play areas, and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Royal Exchange Square
0.0 km
A majestic Victorian square in Glasgow featuring grand architecture, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the iconic Duke of Wellington statue.
Gallery of Modern Art
0.1 km
Scotland’s premier modern art gallery in Glasgow’s neoclassical landmark, showcasing dynamic exhibitions and community events with free entry.
Good as Gold Street Art
0.1 km
A witty and colorful mural in Glasgow’s Springfield Court, blending humor and social commentary through iconic street art.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
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A historic Glasgow landmark where imperial legacy meets playful rebellion, crowned by its famous traffic cone hat.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
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A historic Glasgow landmark famed for its cheeky traffic cone hat, blending imperial legacy with local humor and cultural pride.
Princes Square Shopping Centre
0.1 km
A glass‑roofed, boutique shopping and dining arcade on Buchanan Street — historic ironwork, designer stores and a relaxed, luminous atmosphere under one elegant roof.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
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Explore Glasgow’s city centre through a unique, tactile bronze 3D map blending art, accessibility, and urban history at Buchanan Street.
The Lighthouse
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s design beacon and Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s first public masterpiece with panoramic city views and immersive exhibitions.
Buchanan St
0.1 km
Glasgow’s vibrant pedestrian shopping street blending historic charm, luxury retail, lively culture, and diverse dining in the city centre.
55 Argyll Arcade
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Scotland’s oldest covered shopping arcade, Argyll Arcade dazzles with historic Victorian charm and a premier selection of luxury jewellery and watches.
Argyll Arcade
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Scotland's diamond epicenter: Victorian arcade brimming with luxury jewelry, watches, and bespoke sparkle in Glasgow's heart.
James Watt Statue
0.2 km
Discover the iconic James Watt Statue in Glasgow’s George Square, honoring the engineer who powered the Industrial Revolution with his steam engine innovation.
James Watt Statue
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All Bar One Glasgow
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Explore the vibrant atmosphere of All Bar One Glasgow, where wine lovers unite for exceptional drinks and delicious tapas in the heart of the city.
Merchants House of Glasgow
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A historic Victorian venue in Glasgow’s city centre offering elegant event spaces and a charitable mission in the heart of George Square.
Essential places to dine
Glaschu Restaurant & Bar
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Elegant modern Scottish dining in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Royal Exchange Square with a stylish atmosphere and locally inspired cuisine.
The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow
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Ralph & Finns
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The Citizen Glasgow
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La Vita
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The Anchor Line
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Historic grill and cocktail bar in a 1906 Edwardian shipping company headquarters with nautical charm.
Sugo Pasta
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Fresh, handmade regional Italian pasta in a lively, modern Glasgow setting – no bookings, just great pasta and a buzzing atmosphere.
Las Iguanas - Glasgow
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Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in the heart of Glasgow with bold dishes and irresistible cocktails.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
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Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Windows Restaurant
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Glasgow’s only rooftop restaurant offering modern European cuisine with panoramic city views atop the Carlton George Hotel.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
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Browns Glasgow
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Amarone
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Chaophraya
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Alston Bar & Beef
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fat Buddha Store
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Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Geek-aboo
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Glasgow’s ultimate pop culture shop offering official collectibles, geek gear, and vibrant community events in the heart of the city.
Eurasia Crafts
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Discover authentic handcrafted gifts and cultural treasures in the heart of Glasgow at Eurasia Crafts, a unique emporium for meaningful souvenirs.
Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store
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Discover unique alternative fashion and spiritual-inspired styles at Osiris, Glasgow’s premier destination for emo, goth, and edgy apparel.
House Of Cashmere Glasgow
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish cashmere craftsmanship and timeless luxury in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
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Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Primark
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Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
House of Fraser
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Discover Glasgow’s historic House of Fraser on Buchanan Street, a vibrant hub for fashion, beauty, and homewares since 1849.
The Shop Network
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A diverse urban retail destination in Glasgow’s city centre offering gifts, accessories, clothing, and tech essentials all under one roof.
Wee scottish shop
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Taste of Scotland
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts and rare whiskies in the heart of Glasgow at Taste of Scotland, your gateway to Scotland’s rich heritage.
Tartan House of Scotland
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Authentic Scottish tartans and souvenirs in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street shopping district.
The Clydeside Collective
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The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
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The Vintage Scene Glasgow
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wunderbar
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TABAC
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Ross's Original Bar
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The Spiritualist Glasgow
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Sloans
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Horseshoe Bar Glasgow
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Waxy O'Connor's Glasgow
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Explore Glasgow’s largest Irish pub maze with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports in the heart of Merchant City.
Cairns Bar
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Drum & Monkey Glasgow
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The Piper Whisky Bar
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Devil of Brooklyn
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Bacchus Bar
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Steps Bar
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The Alchemist Glasgow
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Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Missoula - Glasgow
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A vibrant Glasgow cocktail bar blending expert drinks, live DJs, and an all-day menu in a lively city center setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
