Small Plates · Glasgow
Book ahead if you're eating — the upstairs restaurant runs on reservations, the bar downstairs takes walk-ins, and families who turned up on spec have had to wait. It's a proper bookshop setting, shelves everywhere and books you can actually pull down and read, which buys you a good ten minutes of quiet from an older child. The food is tapas-style small plates, two or three per person, and people rave about the flavour and presentation — though some dishes come out spicy, so ask. There's a kids' menu, high chairs and vegan options. Staff are attentive even when it's heaving. Two honest snags: it can get noisy, as the bar sits right below the dining room, and service is sometimes slow at busy times.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
Busy blue-tiled Greek-Turkish mezze spot with fast food, kids' menu, high chairs and free parking — book ahead at weekends.
Cheerful, no-frills Hope Street Italian with kids' menu, high chairs, generous plates and set menus under £19 — but lunch stops at 2.30pm.
A laid-back Glasgow pub with outdoor seating, a 4.3 rating, and an easygoing feel for families with kids in tow.