People and places come and go, but the memories can last a lifetime. Glasgow has evolved and changed over the years, with new bars and restaurants popping up left, right and centre on, almost, a weekly basis. However, Glaswegians are still not over some of the spots closing, reminiscing about the good times. So, let’s take a look at some of the closed bars and restaurants around Glasgow for that nostalgic fix.
1. Rogano
11 Exchange Place
Rogano was Glasgow’s oldest restaurant, which served seafood with 1930s Art Deco interior throughout. Unfortunately, the business ended up closing down due to the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and is still sorely missed by locals. What is more, there have been some talks on Rogano’s website about a possible reopening, so fingers crossed!
2. Granny Black’s
57 Candleriggs
As Glasgow’s first-ever hot food takeaway, Granny Black’s swiftly gained popularity on Merchant Square. The pub existed since 1820 as The Stag, and even hosted strippers before the legalisation of strip clubs. In 2002, Granny Black’s ended up being demolished due to redevelopment plans despite protests from locals.
3. Flat 0/1
162 Bath Street
Flat 0/1 wasn’t just another bar and nightclub. It was a place that felt like a house party, decorated like an 80s flat: it even had a double bed. During the day, the spot offered a cosy socialising place, while during the night guests could dance away to DJ sets as Flat 0/1 turned into a party flat. The bar and club ended up closing down due to its roof collapsing in 2018.
4. Kublai Khans
26 Candleriggs
Probably the most exotic restaurant in Glasgow to ever exist, Kublai Khans served delicacies like crocodile, zebra and kangaroo meat. The restaurant ended up having a major rebrand in 2017 turning into a pizzeria, yet had to close in 2020 due to the pandemic.
5. Old College Bar
221 High Street
The Old College Bar was long advertised as Glasgow’s oldest pub until after it was demolished in 2021. While the building was built in the early 1800s and the bar was certainly old, the previous owner later admitted to it being a publicity trick. Nevertheless, the Old Collge Bar was described as “a big loss to the community, and is officially one of the most-missed closed down bars and restaurants in Glasgow. However, Golf Fang has recreated the pub inside its crazy golf venue, so go check it out while showing off your putting game!
6. Sannino’s Pizzeria
61 Bath Street
Sannino’s Pizzeria is an easy one to miss: its portions were huge! The restaurant opened in 1978, and closed down around 2010. Guests could indulge in traditional Italian food with portions so big you could only finish it if you haven’t eaten all day.
7. The Muscular Arms
West George Street and West Nile Street
This one is not easy to forget for those who have been around during the 70s. The Muscular Arms was a quirky superhero-themed bar that hosted mini Highland Games and spaghetti and crisps eating competitions.
8. Burns Howf
Burns Howf used to be the place to be when it came to music gigs, with people flocking to West Regent Street every weekend up until 1984. The rock and blues bar used to be the talk of the town, with plenty of crazy stories emerging from nights spent at the beloved spot.