Hillhead Bookclub: Glasgow's Vibrant Retro Bar & Eatery

A Unique Venue Steeped in History and Character

Hillhead Bookclub occupies a former Art Deco cinema building in Glasgow’s West End, instantly captivating visitors with its grand, vintage charm. The interior features soaring arch ceilings, operatic balconies overlooking the main floor, and retro lighting that evokes a bygone era. Despite some exterior wear, the venue's character shines through, offering a warm, homely atmosphere that contrasts with its imposing architecture. This blend of grandeur and quirkiness makes it a distinct landmark in the local nightlife scene.

Eclectic Atmosphere and Diverse Clientele

The bar buzzes with a laid-back yet lively energy, attracting a varied crowd from hipsters and young professionals to families during daytime hours. The venue’s multiple levels and open atrium allow for a dynamic social experience, where groups gather around ping pong tables or vintage gaming consoles, while others relax with cocktails at candlelit tables. Weekdays often feature vintage vinyl DJs, creating a soundtrack that encourages conversation, while weekends ramp up with disco, funk, and hip hop, drawing a vibrant, youthful crowd.

Food and Drink: Creative Comfort with a Playful Twist

Hillhead Bookclub’s kitchen serves homely, fresh dishes at affordable prices, with lunch options often under five pounds and dinner dishes under ten. The menu includes inventive comfort foods such as chickpea and coriander fritters, salted pork belly, seafood chowder, and their signature Hillhead chicken club sandwich. The cocktail list is equally imaginative, featuring playful names and unique presentations like cocktails served in gramophones. Craft beers and inventive concoctions like ‘Honey I Drank the Monkey’ and ‘Me, Myself and Melon’ complement the food menu, appealing to diverse tastes.

Events and Entertainment Beyond the Ordinary

The venue hosts a variety of weekly events that add to its eclectic charm, including ping pong tournaments, karaoke nights, vintage fairs, and gameshow evenings. These activities foster a community feel and ensure there’s always something engaging happening beyond just food and drink. The venue’s commitment to entertainment makes it a cultural hub in Glasgow’s West End, where visitors can enjoy both casual socializing and lively events.

Accessibility and Practical Details

Open from 11am or noon until midnight daily, Hillhead Bookclub offers a versatile space suitable for brunch, lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks. The kitchen closes earlier than the bar, typically around 9pm on weekdays and 10pm on weekends, while the outdoor area closes at 10pm. The venue is wheelchair accessible and family-friendly during the day, with a relaxed vibe that welcomes a broad audience. Its central West End location makes it easily reachable by public transport and taxi.

A Distinctive Glasgow Experience

Hillhead Bookclub stands out as a place that balances vintage aesthetics with modern hospitality, creating an inviting space where nostalgia meets contemporary social life. Whether you’re drawn by the quirky decor, the inventive cocktails, the comfort food, or the engaging events, it offers a memorable experience that captures the spirit of Glasgow’s West End nightlife and dining scene.