The Last Bookstore in Glasgow

Lunch at The Last Bookstore in Glasgow

Located where Fat Lobster was on Hope Street, is the latest venture from the folks behind Tabac and The Devil’s Roast, The last bookstore.

Outside, you will see the remains of an old John Smith and Son bookshop sign. Don’t let this mislead you – the real shop was at 57 St Vincent Street where Five Guys is now and sadly closed in 2000.

Back to the present day, inside it is suitably decorated for instagram friendly cocktail images, will this be enough to keep it going? Let’s find out!

I had booked a table, just as well, as a couple arriving before me were advised that they were fully booked. A popular spot I’d best get in quick to get an order in.

At just after 12 on a Friday, at the end of the month, I was surprised to see the dining area empty when I went upstairs. We were joined by another 4 diners during our visit, which didn’t help the lack of atmosphere.

Fully booked? really?

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Food Menu

Cocktail Menu

What we ate and drank

The menu is a small plates menu, and since we didn’t really know how small the small plates were, we winged it with a couple each.

Flat Iron steak, rocket and parmesan £15. Not asked how we would like it cooked which would have been nice, however a tender piece of meat.

Venison meatballs, rustic tomato sauce, parsnip crisp £10. Four plump and meaty meatballs served in what seems like a chopped tomato sauce with delicate parsnip crisps.

Frittata, sweet potato, spinach and egg £7. Thin for a frittata, so I couldn’t taste each of the ingredients. More like a thin egg sponge with bits in it, more tamago omelette than frittata.

Finally, Charred cauliflower, shallot and tahini yoghurt £7.50. I’m a huge cauliflower fan, so if it’s on a menu I am ordering it. This was OK, a bit like everything here. Sounded good, looked good, but just doesn’t deliver. Tepid cauliflower atop yoghurt. Just as well the shallots and charring was there, as there was little flavour in the yoghurt.

The cocktails sounded good, however, I thought I would try some of their wine. The Piquepoul – Terret mix sounded interesting, a small glass as it was lunch. The wine didn’t grab me, a bit too acidic, so the water on the table hauled the refreshment stakes for me.

Verdict

OK, It looks great but really needs to think what it is. Bar or eatery? As both are being half-assed at the moment.

The floor upstairs was sticky, no music, staff looked more like customers just wandering around, the perennial problem of tables too close together and whatever you do – don’t look at the spotlights…hopefully the electrician has been back to actually fit them.

Sorry to be a downer on this, it could be a great space. Ditch the tables, bring in cosy couches and let people soak in the bookish atmosphere. Maybe some jazz low in the background for some vibe?

Also a cheeky unexplained service charge? Just stop that stuff right now.