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
- Click to display
- Click to display
- 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
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Social.
- 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.
Do you manage this location?
Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more
Activate your presenceOther nearby places you may find interesting
Getting There
-
Subway
Take the Glasgow Subway to St Enoch station, then walk 8-12 minutes through Merchant City; frequent trains every 6-8 minutes, single fare £1.85, no parking needed.
-
Bus
Board a Buchanan Bus Station service like the 4 or 60 to Queen Street, 5-7 minute walk follows; services every 10-15 minutes, day fare £2.20, accessible but stairs in square.
-
Taxi
Hail a black cab from city center spots like George Square, 3-5 minute ride; available 24/7, typical fare £6-9, drop-off at square entrance with limited waiting.
-
Walking
From Glasgow Central Station, stroll 10-15 minutes via Ingram Street; flat pavement with light crowds, fully accessible but watch for evening buskers.
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
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
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.Explore the best of what The Social has to offer
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Glasgow
Discover Glasgow, Scotland's cultural capital, where history, architecture, and vibrant arts scene meet, offering a unique and unforgettable travel experience.
Tell me more about Glasgow