Cafe Gandolfi: Glasgow’s Historic Scottish Bistro
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Cafe Gandolfi, located on Albion Street in Glasgow’s Merchant City, is a beloved institution since 1979 known for its warm, rustic ambiance and confident Scottish cuisine. Featuring handcrafted wooden furniture by local artist Tim Stead and a striking stained glass window, it offers a cozy setting alongside a menu rich in traditional and contemporary Scottish dishes, including standout breakfasts and seafood specialties.
A brief summary to Cafe Gandolfi
- 64 Albion St, Glasgow, G1 1NY, GB
- +441415526813
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-10:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-10:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-10:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-10:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-10:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead, especially for weekend breakfasts, to secure a table in this popular spot.
- Try the full Scottish breakfast or Cullen skink for a true taste of local flavors.
- Enjoy the unique wooden furniture and stained glass window that create a cozy, historic ambiance.
- Arrive early during weekdays to avoid peak crowd times and enjoy a quieter experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Cafe Gandolfi location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cafe Gandolfi
A Storied Glasgow Institution
Cafe Gandolfi opened its doors in 1979 in what was then the old Cheesemarket, pioneering Glasgow’s cafe culture by introducing the city’s first cappuccino machine. Over four decades, it has become a cherished fixture in the vibrant Merchant City district, attracting locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s name honors the renowned Gandolfi family of photographers, linking the venue to Glasgow’s cultural heritage.Artisanal Interior Craftsmanship
The interior is distinguished by its heavy wooden furniture, crafted by Tim Stead, a Glasgow School of Art graduate and celebrated local furniture maker. This bespoke woodwork, now worn smooth with use, creates a warm, homely atmosphere that complements the rustic charm of the space. A colorful stained glass window by artist John Clarke adds a unique visual contrast, enriching the café’s inviting and historic character.Culinary Excellence with a Highland Focus
Cafe Gandolfi’s kitchen confidently balances classic Scottish fare with Mediterranean influences. Signature dishes include the peaty, creamy Cullen skink served with local sourdough, and the comforting ‘nduja Scotch egg with punchy aïoli. The menu highlights fresh, high-quality ingredients, with vegetarian and vegan options available. The full Scottish breakfast, featuring Stornoway black pudding, free-range eggs, and thick streaky bacon, is a particular highlight.A Welcoming and Lively Atmosphere
The café buzzes with conviviality, its closely set tables fostering a friendly and bustling environment. Regulars and newcomers alike enjoy the attentive, warm service that has been a hallmark for years. The venue’s all-day food service, combined with a compact wine list spanning mid-£20 to mid-£50 bottles, as well as beer and cocktails, caters to varied tastes and occasions.Enduring Legacy and Local Love
Many patrons have returned for decades, drawn by the consistent quality and welcoming spirit. Cafe Gandolfi is not just a place to eat but a social hub where Glasgow’s food culture and community intersect. Its reputation for delivering hearty, delicious meals in a setting rich with local artistry and history makes it a must-visit destination in the city.Practical Details and Visitor Experience
Open daily with extended hours Tuesday through Saturday, the café accommodates breakfast, lunch, and dinner crowds. Despite occasional busy periods, the staff strive to maintain a smooth service flow. The venue’s location in the Merchant City places it amid Glasgow’s cultural and nightlife scene, enhancing its appeal as a dining destination with historic roots and contemporary flair.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.1 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.
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.
Walter Scott Monument
0.5 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
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
0.6 km
Historic Neo-Gothic cathedral and spiritual heart of Glasgow’s Catholic community since the early 19th century.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.6 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Provand's Lordship
0.6 km
Explore Provand's Lordship, Glasgow's oldest house, a captivating museum showcasing the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Good as Gold Street Art
0.6 km
Explore Good as Gold Street Art in Glasgow - a vibrant open-air gallery showcasing stunning murals and street art that reflect the city's creative spirit.
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.
The Lighthouse
0.7 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
The Glenlee Propellers
0.7 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.7 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.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
0.8 km
Discover the historic Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground, a tranquil oasis filled with centuries-old gravestones and rich stories in the heart of Glasgow.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
0.8 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Merchant Square
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
Glasgow Police Museum
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s policing heritage through fascinating artifacts and a global uniform collection in this volunteer-run, free museum in Merchant City.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.1 km
Historic Glasgow music venues blending Victorian grandeur with vibrant live performances in the heart of Merchant City.
Tron Theatre
0.2 km
Historic church-turned-theatre at the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, showcasing bold contemporary work and emerging Scottish talent.
Trongate
0.2 km
Explore Trongate, Glasgow’s oldest street and historic merchant hub, where commerce, culture, and heritage converge in the city’s vibrant heart.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
0.2 km
A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
0.2 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Ramshorn Graveyard
0.2 km
Historic 18th-century Glasgow graveyard and Gothic Revival kirk, resting place of Tobacco Lords and cultural pioneers in the Merchant City.
Britannia Panopticon
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon, the world’s oldest surviving music hall, where Victorian variety meets early cinema in a vibrant historic venue.
High St
0.2 km
Historic High Street in Glasgow links the city’s rich past with vibrant shopping streets and cultural landmarks.
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.
Strath Wonderwall Mural - Land Ship
0.3 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Glasgow’s maritime heritage and the University of Strathclyde’s academic achievements through stunning street art.
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.
Barrowland Park
0.3 km
A lively urban park at the heart of Glasgow’s music scene, where culture and community come alive on Gallowgate.
Essential places to dine
Cafe Gandolfi
0.0 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Bar Soba Merchant City
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Table Twenty Eight
0.1 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
The Dhabba
0.1 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
0.1 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
The Italian Kitchen
0.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Boteco Do Brasil
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
0.1 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Saints of Ingram
0.3 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Mono
0.3 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
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.
Browns Glasgow
0.4 km
Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Social Recluse
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Minted
0.3 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
0.4 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Pride of Glasgow
0.4 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.
Frida and Coco
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
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.
Primark
0.5 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.
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.
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.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Never miss a gift
0.6 km
Explore Never Miss a Gift in Glasgow for unique candles and health products that capture the essence of thoughtful gifting.
Shop Small at St Enoch
0.6 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.
Modern Love Store
0.6 km
Pastel-hued trove of global homewares, kitsch glassware, and joyful gifts in Glasgow's east end—unique finds with character await.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Home
0.0 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.
Strathduie Bar
0.1 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Bar 91
0.1 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.
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.
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.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
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.
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.
Speakeasy
0.3 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
0.4 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
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.
Cairns Bar
0.5 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 Alchemist Glasgow
0.5 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Wunderbar
0.6 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
Sloans
0.6 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
0.1 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
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.
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
0.4 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.
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.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.8 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.
Classic Grand
0.8 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
0.8 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.9 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.
Kokomo Glasgow
0.9 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
0.9 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Cozy
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
