In the vast abundance of choices across the city, many of us are no stranger to analysis paralysis. However, what if we told you we have found possibly the most beautifully decorated restaurant in Glasgow, which is also inspired by Glasgow? Hazel boasts a massive tree (yes, it’s a hazel tree) as its centerpiece, inspired by our city’s crest.
Located on John Street right in the heart of the city overlooking George Square, Hazel offers locals and visitors alike an “urban oasis”, a sanctuary that provides quiet refuge from the hustle and bustle.
Open from as early as 10am, visitors can grab a morning coffee, enjoy a wee lunch with friends or catch up with loved ones over dinner and drinks. Plus, there is a separate lounge area (with an interior just as stunning) for those after some cocktails.
Guests can enjoy a seasonal and locally sourced menu, counting on the freshness of the ingredients from Scottish vendors. Secret Glasgow got the chance to try out the menu, experiencing the essence of Glaswegian cuisine with a contemporary touch.
To start, the Smoked Duck Breast with charred gem lettuce, aioli, crispy crouton, shaved parmesan, boquerón’s was one of the true highlights, with a perfect balance of flavours that will make you want to dance. Guests can also try small plates such as the Chorizo scotch egg, Crayfish Thermidor croquettes and Old Fashioned cured salmon.
However, the main event stole show: the Loin of Venison is a must for meat lovers, served with Dijon black pepper herb crust, rosti potato, sautéed spinach and tomato jus. We also got a side of mash with this, and it put everything together perfectly.
For those who don’t feel like venison, the Grill Section also offers a large cut of Chateaubriand for two. Guests can also opt for seafood mains such as the Tempura monkfish, while vegetarians should LOVE the Squash hand-rolled gnocchi with butternut squash purée, sautéed cavolo nero, greens, toasted pine nuts, shaved parmesan.
The cocktails at Hazel also deserve a special shout-out and are worth the trip alone. I particularly loved the Hazel 75 with Crossbill Gin, pink grapefruit liqueur, lemon and prosecco, while the Strawberry Solstice offered the perfect pink hues with strawberry, rooibos, manzanilla sherry and rum.
Overall, Hazel is a stunning restaurant and cocktail lounge with prices that won’t break the bank for a fine dining experience in a beautiful setting.