10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Hidden Glasgow street steeped in tobacco history now packed with trendy pubs and restaurants
Once a dim alley, the lane now buzzes with energy and is home to Glasgow's last surviving Virginia tobacco merchant's house
Glasgow's reputation as one of the UK's trendiest cities is well deserved, with its bustling bars, diverse restaurants and vibrant shopping drawing crowds every day.
While many visitors stick to familiar spots like Buchanan Street, Sauchiehall Street, the Southside or the iconic West End, there's a lesser-known gem just minutes from Central and Queen Street stations that has quietly transformed into a hotspot in its own right, Scottish Daily Express reports.
Miller Street, once a dim back alley linking Argyle Street to Ingram Street, now rivals even Ashton Lane for its cool, lively vibe. Steeped in history, this narrow lane boasts the impressive Tobacco Merchant's House at number 42, the last remaining Virginia tobacco merchant's house in Glasgow, a nod to its past connected to the city's tobacco trade.
Two decades ago, Miller Street was little more than a shortcut for those heading between Argyle Street and George Square. Today, it thrives with some of Glasgow's most sought-after eateries and bars, attracting locals and visitors alike.
Starting at the northern end, sandwich lovers flock to Piece, a highly rated spot where cash isn't accepted, so don't forget your card. Nearby, Paesano has earned a stellar reputation with its wood-fired artisan pizzas served from an open kitchen to communal tables.
The queues are testament to its popularity. One Google reviewer captured the sentiment perfectly: 'No words describe the quality of the pizza! They have amazing principles! Definitely competes original Italian places within Italy!'
For those craving meat, the Spanish Butcher offers a carnivore's delight with its Spanish-inspired menu. Praised for its 'relaxed with a chic ambiance,' it draws glowing reviews, including one visitor who declared: 'Food is outstanding, melts in the mouth and the best steak I've ever eaten.'
American food fans can head to the retro Thundercat Pub and Diner, where US-style pub grub meets draught beer and cocktails. A firm favourite, one fan said: 'Always enjoy here. It's somewhere a bit different and the deep pan pizzas are just immense.'
Latin American flavours feature at El Santo Bar and Restaurant, where Mexican, Brazilian and Peruvian dishes take centre stage.
A recent diner summed up their visit: 'This place is simply amazing! Atmosphere 100%. Drinks choice 100%. Now we get to service and food! That is on another level.'
Just down the lane, Margo offers a welcoming space with small sharing plates, great service and an atmosphere that impresses every time. One reviewer noted: 'WOW. Not often am I bowled away by service quality and atmosphere. Excellent value for money, incredible flavours, simple yet pack a punch.'
Rounding off this impressive culinary stretch is The Spiritualist, a cocktail bar popular with Glasgow's fashionable crowd.
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One visitor said: 'Fantastic atmosphere, would definitely recommend! We didn't have a reservation but were really pleased to get a table for 1.5 hours, especially given how busy it was on a Saturday. Although we didn't eat this time, the dishes we saw coming out looked amazing, we're already planning to come back just for the food!'
For those seeking a more traditional vibe, Cairns Bar sits at the junction with Argyle Street. Known as a classic Glasgow pub, it has been praised for both its friendly atmosphere and quality food.
One visitor shared: 'Ran into this bar while walking around Glasgow. It's off a side street, but still able to hear all the hustle and bustle of the busy street close by. The bartenders were welcoming and friendly and had a wide selection of drinks. I sat outside on their big patio to enjoy the weather. If you're in Glasgow, check out this bar!'
Conveniently located, Miller Street is just a 10-minute walk from both Glasgow Queen Street and Glasgow Central stations, with Argyle Street station mere metres away, making it easy to explore this hotspot in the heart of the city.
