Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Nestled in Glasgow's vibrant Merchant City, Avant Garde is a family-run haven blending live music, modern European cuisine, and a lively bar atmosphere. Housed in a historic underground vault, it offers daily performances from jazz to ceilidh bands, drawing crowds for affordable pints, hearty plates, and an electric vibe. Open from 11am till midnight most days, it's the perfect spot for casual lunches, evening gigs, or weekend revelry in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
- 34-44 King St, Glasgow, G1 5QT, GB
- +441415527123
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Wednesday 11 am-12 am
- Thursday 11 am-12 am
- Friday 11 am-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
- Sunday 11 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early for weekend gigs to snag stage-side seats; the vaults fill fast after 8pm.
- Opt for sharing platters during lunch deals for value-packed meals under £10 per person.
- Check the weekly music schedule online to catch specific genres like Sunday jazz.
- Pints start at £3.50—perfect for budget hydration amid the lively atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Restrooms
- Wi-Fi spot
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
Underground Vaults of Merchant City
Tucked beneath the bustling streets of Glasgow's Merchant City at 34-44 King Street, Avant Garde occupies a series of atmospheric underground vaults that once stored the city's trading wealth. These stone-walled chambers, remnants of 19th-century architecture, create an intimate, echoing space where history meets contemporary energy. Exposed brick arches and dim lighting foster a cozy yet expansive feel, accommodating everything from quiet daytime coffees to packed evening crowds. The venue's layout flows seamlessly from a front bar area ideal for casual drinks to a larger rear space dominated by a stage, ensuring every seat offers a view of the action. High ceilings amplify the sound, making it a natural amplifier for live performances without overpowering conversations during quieter hours.Live Music Heartbeat
Live music pulses through Avant Garde from afternoon sessions to late-night sets, featuring a rotating lineup of local talent across genres. Jazz combos swing on Sundays, ceilidh bands ignite spontaneous dancing on weekends, and rock or folk acts energize midweek evenings. The stage, centered in the main vault, hosts both established performers and emerging artists, contributing to Glasgow's renowned music scene. This commitment to nightly entertainment transforms the bar into a cultural hub, where musicians interact with patrons, fostering an inclusive atmosphere. The sound system balances clarity for vocals and instruments, allowing the music to envelop without distortion, even at peak volumes.Modern European Flavors
The kitchen delivers modern European dishes with a focus on fresh, hearty portions that pair perfectly with the venue's drinks menu. Expect grilled meats, seafood platters, pasta specials, and vegetarian options like stuffed peppers or salads, all prepared with local Scottish produce. Signature platters encourage sharing, ideal for groups soaking up the live tunes. Cocktails and craft beers complement the food, with pints priced accessibly around £3.50-£5, drawing locals and visitors alike. Coffee flows freely during daytimes, transitioning to wines and spirits as the music ramps up, creating a versatile menu for all hours.Family-Run Rhythm
Since its establishment, Avant Garde has been steered by a dedicated family team, infusing personal touches into every service. Staff navigate the vaults with ease, offering recommendations on gigs, dishes, or drinks, while maintaining efficient pacing amid the buzz. This hands-on approach ensures smooth operations, from lunch rushes to post-gig clean-ups. The venue's evolution reflects Glasgow's dynamic spirit, adapting from quiet café to full-throttle music spot while preserving its welcoming core. Events like private functions utilize the function room facilities, extending its role beyond daily patronage.Merchant City Integration
Positioned in the historic Merchant City, Avant Garde benefits from its surroundings of Georgian architecture and trendy boutiques, yet stands out with its subterranean allure. The location facilitates easy foot traffic from nearby George Square or the Italian Centre, embedding it in Glasgow's cultural fabric without competing for attention. Seasonal shifts bring variety—summer terraces if available, winter warmth inside—always anchored by the constant of live music. Wi-Fi supports remote workers by day, while evenings shift to a no-devices-needed social pulse.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tolbooth Steeple
0.2 km
Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.2 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.5 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.5 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Walter Scott Monument
0.6 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
La Pasionaria
0.6 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
0.7 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
The Lighthouse
0.7 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
o2 accadamy
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Glasgow's music scene at O2 Academy, where iconic performances and vibrant nightlife come alive in a unique setting.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
0.7 km
Explore Glasgow's heart through the captivating Bronze 3D Map of City Centre, a stunning sculpture and guide to the city's rich heritage.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.8 km
Explore Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow, a vibrant square honoring the legacy of human rights with stunning architecture, art, and local culture.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.8 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
People's Palace
0.8 km
Explore Glasgow's social history at the People's Palace, where captivating exhibits and stunning architecture tell the story of the city's vibrant past.
Provand's Lordship
0.9 km
Explore Provand's Lordship, Glasgow's oldest house, a captivating museum showcasing the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trongate
0.1 km
Explore Trongate, Glasgow’s oldest street and historic merchant hub, where commerce, culture, and heritage converge in the city’s vibrant heart.
Tron Theatre
0.1 km
Historic church-turned-theatre at the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, showcasing bold contemporary work and emerging Scottish talent.
"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
0.1 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
0.1 km
Celebrate Glasgow’s beloved comedian Billy Connolly through this vibrant mural on Osborne Street, a highlight of the city’s renowned Mural Trail.
Murial of a man
0.1 km
A vibrant pop art mural blending graphic novel style and Japanese influences, lighting up Glasgow’s historic Trongate with bold color and creativity.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s policing heritage through fascinating artifacts and a global uniform collection in this volunteer-run, free museum in Merchant City.
Blackfriars of Bell Street
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
0.3 km
A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
Merchant Square
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
0.3 km
An exquisite Georgian-era former church transformed into Glasgow’s premier cultural and event venue, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Clutha & Victoria Bar
0.3 km
Explore Clutha & Victoria Bar in Glasgow, a lively pub offering live music, delicious pizza, and a warm Scottish atmosphere.
Pavement
0.3 km
Creative grill dining with bold flavours and a relaxed vibe in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Old Police Post
0.3 km
Explore the historic Old Police Post in Glasgow, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Merchant City
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s Merchant City: where historic elegance meets vibrant arts, dining, and shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.3 km
Historic Glasgow music venues blending Victorian grandeur with vibrant live performances in the heart of Merchant City.
Essential places to dine
Mono
0.1 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Boteco Do Brasil
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
The Dhabba
0.2 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Cafe Gandolfi
0.3 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Table Twenty Eight
0.3 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.4 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Saints of Ingram
0.4 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
The Italian Kitchen
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
0.4 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Social Recluse
0.0 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Minted
0.1 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
0.1 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Pride of Glasgow
0.2 km
Discover tartan treasures and whisky wonders at this spirited Argyle Street shop, where Scottish pride meets Glasgow's cheeky charm in every authentic souvenir.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Shop Small at St Enoch
0.4 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Shop Small in Glasgow’s iconic St Enoch Centre, where historic charm meets modern shopping under Europe’s largest glass roof.
Primark
0.4 km
Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Eurasia Crafts
0.5 km
Discover handcrafted wonders from Eurasia in a cozy Glasgow gem—unique gifts, artisan stories, and cultural treasures await on elegant Queen Street.
Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store
0.5 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Geek-aboo
0.5 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
The Clydeside Collective
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
Fat Buddha Store
0.5 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
The Vintage Scene Glasgow
0.6 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and sustainable style at The Vintage Scene, Glasgow’s premier vintage clothing shop in St Enoch Square.
House of Fraser
0.6 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic House of Fraser on Buchanan Street, a vibrant hub for fashion, beauty, and homewares since 1849.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.0 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Home
0.3 km
Glasgow's go-to pub for live sports, craft cocktails, and hearty sharing plates in the vibrant Merchant City – where every visit feels like home turf.
Bar 91
0.3 km
Laid-back Merchant City pub pouring craft brews, global bites, and live tunes opposite City Halls—a Glasgow essential for day-to-night vibes.
Steps Bar
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow's Art Deco time capsule: Steps Bar's preserved 1930s elegance, walnut gantry, and jukebox vibes await in Merchant City's historic heart.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
0.3 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Strathduie Bar
0.3 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Bacchus Bar
0.4 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Cairns Bar
0.4 km
Cozy Merchant City pub pouring Belhaven ales, serving pub classics, and screening live sports in Glasgow's lively heart—perfect for pints and pies anytime.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
0.4 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Speakeasy
0.4 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
The Piper Whisky Bar
0.5 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Sloans
0.5 km
Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant since 1797, famed for lively events, historic charm, and legendary Macaroni Cheese in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Wunderbar
0.6 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.6 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
0.2 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Polo Lounge
0.3 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
0.3 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
0.4 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
AXM Glasgow
0.4 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Delmonicas
0.4 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
La Cheetah Club
0.5 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Classic Grand
0.7 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
0.7 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.7 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.8 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.8 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
0.9 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
142B Lounge
1.0 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
Kokomo Glasgow
1.0 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
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
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
