Blackfriars of Bell Street — Restaurant in Scotland

Walking into Blackfriars of Bell St felt like stepping into a scene where everything was just a little off. The atmosphere was chaotic, with bar staff looking stressed and directionless, as if they were trying to manage a situation that had long since spiraled out of control.

The music was unreasonably loud, which didn't help matters. It felt like they were trying to drown out the chaos with volume. The food—while decent—didn’t quite hit the mark. The menu was limited, and what was served in Just Eat boxes from Nonna’s felt out of place in a setting like this. Eating from cardboard containers doesn’t exactly scream “welcome to a great night out.” And when the NFC menu on the table didn’t work, it just added another layer of frustration.

As someone who’s worked in hospitality, I couldn't help but notice some concerning details. The bar itself was cluttered, and even more troubling were the partially open bottles left sitting out. That’s not just sloppy—it’s unprofessional and raises questions about hygiene and quality control.

Service wasn’t much better. Despite giving our booking name multiple times, we were vaguely directed to our seats with a point from behind the bar. It was clear that the staff were overwhelmed and uncoordinated, with everyone trying to stay afloat amidst the chaos.

The live show had potential, but even that experience was tarnished by disorganization. Instructions were shouted through a small stairway, and guests were crammed into every available space, including seats awkwardly placed against the walls. The room felt claustrophobic, made worse by the lack of ventilation that turned the space into a sauna.

It’s a shame because the act was brilliant—11/10. But the venue itself is in desperate need of attention. With the recent closure of the Metropolitan, Blackfriars should be stepping up, not stepping back. If they want to stay in the game, they need to address these issues—starting with cleanliness, organization, and basic...

Went to an event here in downstairs area. Insufficient cloakroom space only 30 mins after opening so had to spend event (as long as we could bear as heat was incredible on dance floor) wearing or holding my jacket, toilets were a mess and some out of action.

The real problem was the bar, queues of up to 40 mins to get served, staff appearing to have meltdowns, not serving people in order causing anger and frustration between the punters, then seen one of them get right up in face of a wee woman standing at bar shouting at her (guy with ginger hair I think and one of those stupid man bun things).

From the few times anyone in our group tried to get drinks it was a nightmare and attitude of bar staff was appalling at times. You’d think they’d appreciate the custom and the patience of punters for their own shocking organisation. Put it this way if they’d served better and provided cloakroom space they’d have made a load more money from us.

Will never attend another event in this place and wouldn’t even have a drink upstairs after how they were treating us punters. Shame as the night had moved there from the old Admiral bar who’s staff were absolutely amazing and the event ran smooth as clockwork.

Just to add, been to events all over city and beyond, festivals the lot and never had to queue so long for a drink. We actually spent Hogmanay 1999 in the upstairs bar and even that night you could get a drink within 15 mins. Guess current management and staff aren’t...

I love this place. Always busy, always a good atmosphere. Situated right in the middle of the Merchants City to the east of Glasgow City Center. The entire area is full of bars and restaurants teeming with life and activity at all times of the day.

They have a great selection of beers, spirits etc... and always have a good choice of guest real ales on tap. I have not tried to food however from what i have seen it looks OK.

Prices are standard for the Merchants City are of Glasgow, not to expensive but not cheap either. A fair amount of seats etc inside however any time i have been in it has been standing room only. There is a small beer garden/smoking area out the front where you can take your beer as long as you sit at one of the tables.

Being in Merchants City it is 15-20 min walk from Central Train Station or Buchannan st Bus Station. There are car parks near by however there is not a lot of space and depending on where you park you can end up paying through the nose for it. Best to take public transport or walk from the center of town.

The only downside i can think of is that the Gents toilet is tiny. Other than that, it is a great pub. Well...