The Social
Cocktail haven in Merchant City with quirky drinks, wood-fired eats, terrace views, and late-night DJ vibes in Royal Exchange Square.
Nestled in Glasgow's lively Royal Exchange Square, The Social is a stylish cocktail bar and grill restaurant blending gastro pub fare with creative drinks and late-night vibes. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, shareable small plates, brunch options, and quirky cocktails like the Rubber Duck or Solero from its central island bar. The venue features comfortable booths, a terrace with floral displays overlooking the square, live music, DJ sets, and events that keep the energy high into the early hours. Open daily from morning till late, it caters to brunch crowds, dinner groups, and nightlife seekers in the heart of Merchant City.
A brief summary to The Social
- 27 Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow, G1 3AJ, GB
- +441412222321
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-3 am
- Tuesday 11 am-3 am
- Wednesday 11 am-3 am
- Thursday 11 am-3 am
- Friday 11 am-3 am
- Saturday 11 am-3 am
- Sunday 11 am-3 am
Local tips
- Opt for the terrace on sunny days for floral-framed square views and people-watching with a quirky cocktail.
- Share small plates and a pizza for the best group experience; watch them craft your pie through the glass wall.
- Time your visit for live music or DJ sets in the evening to catch the venue at its energetic peak.
- Try brunch early on weekends when openings shift to 10am for a relaxed start with fresh, varied dishes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
The Social location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Social
Vibrant Heart of Royal Exchange Square
The Social occupies a prime spot at 27 Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow's Merchant City, a historic yet buzzing area known for its Georgian architecture and lively atmosphere. This stylish venue draws in locals and visitors with its central island bar and expansive terrace adorned with large floral displays, offering views of the square's fountains and surrounding buildings. The interior boasts a bright, modern design with well-spaced tables and cozy booths perfect for intimate gatherings or larger groups, creating an inviting space that transitions seamlessly from daytime dining to evening revelry.Cocktail Mastery and Quirky Creations
Renowned for its innovative drinks, The Social shakes up some of Glasgow's most inventive cocktails, featuring avant-garde garnishes like candyfloss and rubber ducks. Signature options such as the refreshing Solero, playful Rubber Duck, and tantalizing Haribru showcase bold flavor combinations that surprise and delight. The large menu caters to every palate, from classic mixes to experimental pours, all crafted by skilled bartenders at the prominent bar that serves as the venue's social hub.Diverse Menu for Every Craving
The food lineup emphasizes shareable appeal, with small plates and nibbles ideal for groups, alongside hearty gastro pub dishes. Wood-fired pizzas stretch and bake to order behind a glass wall, allowing diners to watch the process, while burgers, salads, steaks, and brunch selections like eggs and sandwiches round out the offerings. Brunch draws morning crowds, lunch suits quick bites, and dinner features grilled specialties, all presented with care in a menu that's varied yet approachable without excess choices.Live Entertainment and Nightlife Pulse
As evening sets in, The Social transforms with DJ performances, live music, and themed events that fill the air with energy. The terrace becomes a prime spot for cocktails under the city lights, while indoor spaces host sports screenings for major events like Wimbledon or football tournaments. Open late—until 3am on weekends—this venue keeps the nightlife flowing, blending good tunes, cold drinks, and a communal vibe that encourages lingering.Merchant City Integration
Situated in the regenerated Merchant City, The Social benefits from its location amid boutique shops, galleries, and historic sites. The square itself, with its neoclassical buildings, provides a picturesque backdrop, enhancing the terrace experience. This positioning makes it a natural stop for those exploring Glasgow's cultural core, offering a modern contrast to the area's heritage charm.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walter Scott Monument
0.2 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.2 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
0.3 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
0.4 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.6 km
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
0.6 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.
Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant Strath Wonderwall Mural in Glasgow, a stunning street art piece that reflects the city's creative spirit and cultural richness.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.7 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.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
0.8 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Glasgow at St Andrew's in the Square, a historic venue for art, community events, and weddings.
McLellan Galleries
0.9 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
Barrowland Park
0.9 km
Experience the charm of Barrowland Park, Glasgow's vibrant oasis featuring art, play areas, and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
McLennan Arch
0.9 km
A neoclassical sandstone archway marking Glasgow Green’s historic entrance, embodying the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.9 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
The Glasgow School of Art
0.9 km
Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.
Box Hub
1.0 km
Discover Box Hub: Glasgow's dynamic events venue, where live music, celebrations, and vibrant nightlife come together in a unique atmosphere.
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 a grand neoclassical building, offering free entry to diverse contemporary artworks and vibrant cultural programs.
Good as Gold Street Art
0.1 km
A witty mural in Glasgow’s city center humorously capturing the soaring price of Freddo chocolates as a symbol of inflation.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
0.1 km
A historic Glasgow landmark where imperial legacy meets playful rebellion, crowned by its famous traffic cone hat.
Princes Square Shopping Centre
0.1 km
A stunning blend of Victorian elegance, luxury shopping, and fine dining beneath Glasgow’s iconic glass roof.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
0.1 km
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 iconic design centre with stunning Mackintosh architecture and panoramic city views from a historic spiral staircase.
Buchanan St
0.1 km
Glasgow’s vibrant pedestrian shopping street blending historic charm, diverse retail, lively entertainment, and cultural landmarks.
55 Argyll Arcade
0.1 km
Scotland’s oldest covered arcade, Argyll Arcade dazzles with historic charm and a premier collection of jewellers in Glasgow’s heart.
Argyll Arcade
0.1 km
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.
All Bar One Glasgow
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
A historic Victorian venue in Glasgow’s city centre offering elegant event spaces and a charitable mission in the heart of George Square.
Tobacco Merchant's House
0.2 km
Glasgow’s last 18th-century tobacco merchant villa, a preserved Georgian gem and vivid reminder of the city’s mercantile and colonial past.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.2 km
A vibrant Glasgow square honoring Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the city’s historic stand against apartheid.
Essential places to dine
Glaschu Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
Glamorous Glasgow brasserie with art deco charm, reliable British cooking, and cocktails in a converted bank.
Ralph & Finns
0.1 km
Elegant modern Scottish dining and creative cocktails in a historic Glasgow Merchant City setting.
The Citizen Glasgow
0.1 km
Historic charm meets modern Scottish cuisine in a stylish city-center restaurant with a warm, lively atmosphere.
La Vita
0.1 km
Authentic stone-baked Italian pizzas and classic dishes served in Glasgow’s vibrant city centre, open daily from early morning to late night.
The Anchor Line
0.1 km
Historic grill and cocktail bar in a 1906 Edwardian shipping company headquarters with nautical charm.
Sugo Pasta
0.1 km
Fresh, handmade regional Italian pasta in a lively, modern Glasgow setting – no bookings, just great pasta and a buzzing atmosphere.
Las Iguanas - Glasgow
0.1 km
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
0.2 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Windows Restaurant
0.2 km
Glasgow’s only rooftop restaurant offering modern European cuisine with panoramic city views atop the Carlton George Hotel.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.2 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
Browns Glasgow
0.2 km
Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
Amarone
0.3 km
Stylish Italian dining with open kitchens, vibrant flavors, and a lively atmosphere in Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Chaophraya
0.3 km
Elegant Thai dining in a grand Glasgow townhouse, known for its cocktails and dramatic interior.
Alston Bar & Beef
0.3 km
Discover premium dry-aged Scottish steaks and an extensive gin bar beneath Glasgow Central Station’s historic arches.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fat Buddha Store
0.1 km
Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Geek-aboo
0.1 km
Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Eurasia Crafts
0.1 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
0.1 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
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
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Primark
0.2 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.
House of Fraser
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic House of Fraser on Buchanan Street, a vibrant hub for fashion, beauty, and homewares since 1849.
The Shop Network
0.2 km
A diverse urban retail destination in Glasgow’s city centre offering gifts, accessories, clothing, and tech essentials all under one roof.
Wee scottish shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and handmade treats in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street.
Taste of Scotland
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish tartans and souvenirs in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street shopping district.
The Clydeside Collective
0.3 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
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.
The Vintage Scene Glasgow
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and sustainable style at The Vintage Scene, Glasgow’s premier vintage clothing shop in St Enoch Square.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Wunderbar
0.0 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
TABAC
0.1 km
Retro Parisian cocktail bar on hidden Mitchell Lane, blending masterful mixes, street food bites, and lively vibes in Glasgow's heart.
Ross's Original Bar
0.1 km
Classic Glasgow pub with hearty food, lively karaoke nights, and a welcoming old-school atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
0.2 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Sloans
0.2 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.
Horseshoe Bar Glasgow
0.2 km
Historic Victorian pub with Britain’s longest horseshoe-shaped bar, lively karaoke, live sports, and warm Glaswegian hospitality in the city centre.
Waxy O'Connor's Glasgow
0.2 km
Explore Glasgow’s largest Irish pub maze with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports in the heart of Merchant City.
Cairns Bar
0.2 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.
Drum & Monkey Glasgow
0.2 km
Traditional Glasgow gastropub in a historic bank building, famed for its ales, hearty pies, and welcoming city centre vibe.
The Piper Whisky Bar
0.3 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Devil of Brooklyn
0.3 km
A chic speakeasy cocktail bar in Glasgow’s city centre, blending Italianate elegance with creative drinks and a warm, intimate vibe.
Bacchus Bar
0.3 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
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.
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Missoula - Glasgow
0.3 km
A vibrant Glasgow cocktail bar blending expert drinks, live DJs, and an all-day menu in a lively city center setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Cheetah Club
0.1 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.2 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Delmonicas
0.2 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
Club X
0.2 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.3 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
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.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.3 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
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.
AXM Glasgow
0.3 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Popworld Glasgow
0.3 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Classic Grand
0.3 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
0.3 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
142B Lounge
0.4 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
Kokomo Glasgow
0.4 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
0.4 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Skyline
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- TikTok-Friendly
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Colorful Backdrops
- Architectural Shots
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
