Derby Lane — Restaurant in Scotland

Disappointing Experience - Poor Allergy Awareness and Hygiene Standards

We visited Derby Lane today using a gifted voucher for afternoon tea for two, purchased via Buyagift. Unfortunately, the experience was extremely disappointing, particularly in terms of allergy handling, customer service, and general hygiene.

Prior to our visit, I called to confirm that they could cater for dietary requirements - specifically gluten intolerance - and was reassured that it would be no problem, with gluten-free options available and food ordered in specially if needed.

However, upon arrival, the environment was already uncomfortable. The venue was uncomfortably warm with no air conditioning, and both staff and customers were visibly sweating. Plates of sandwiches for other guests were left sitting on the bar in the heat, with staff repeatedly handling and rearranging them without gloves or visible hygiene protocols. They were loosely covered with only paper towels, which did little to reassure us regarding food safety.

There was also confusion over our booking. Despite our prior reservation, staff initially couldn’t find our details and had booked us in for the wrong time - though the gluten-free requirement was clearly noted. We were eventually seated, only to be told that the gluten-free element had been overlooked, and therefore very limited options were available. They mentioned having some bread and carrot cake, but that was all.

When we ordered two iced coffees (one decaf), they were served incorrectly - one as a chocolate latte. After clarifying the mistake, the drink was taken back, but not without attitude. The original staff member who made the drinks appeared visibly irritated, throwing the incorrect coffee aggressively into the sink. She later commented that she had used chocolate to identify which coffee was decaf — a method that seemed arbitrary and confusing, especially when dealing with allergies or preferences.

As for the food: we were served a plate with sandwiches - half made with what appeared to be gluten-free bread, and the other half with standard finger sandwiches - all with fillings that were visibly sweating in the heat. The dessert tray arrived with an assortment of cakes, including carrot cake, which we were told was gluten-free. A few minutes later, the waiter returned to say that the cakes actually did contain gluten. More worryingly, there seemed to be little understanding of the seriousness of cross-contamination, as the cakes had all been presented on the same tray. After we raised concerns, the waiter removed the tray, separated the carrot cake onto a different plate, and returned the 2 sets of cakes to us - an approach that left us with no confidence in their allergen awareness.

Frankly, I have never experienced such a lack of understanding or training when it comes to managing food allergies. The staff did not appear to take the matter seriously, and the entire experience felt stressful and unsafe.

What should have been a thoughtful and enjoyable gift from friends turned into a deeply unpleasant outing. I would strongly advise anyone with dietary requirements or expectations of basic hygiene standards to...

Came here for afternoon tea after getting a voucher deal. Had high hopes after seeing all the reviews but left feeling very disappointed. The server was nice enough but didn't make us feel welcome or appear interested in us having a good experience. Our table was very small and felt cramped. The giant centre piece was lovely but there was no room to move so we asked it be taken away. The sandwiches and scones were ok but the cakes were stale and inedible. Also expected to be 2 of everything but there wasn't. The pot of tea was tiny and we weren't offered any more, we had to ask. Half way through, our table and another were asked to show our vouchers. Not sure why this wasn't done before or after. It felt very awkward. The toilets were ok but one of the doors was missing a lock. I had to swerve past a brush and a pile of swept rubbish at the top of the stairs - not a good look I ordered a cocktail and was passing the bar while it was being made. I overheard the server making it say they weren't sure if they'd put all the ingredients in just before they shook it - considering it cost £11 I would hope so!! The fact it was a deal is maybe why it wasn't the standard shown on social media and in reviews. Even at the discounted price it was very poor value. I would think it would be an opportunity to show off how good it was for us to then want to come back and pay full price. Sadly, we won't be returning or...

We were greeted in a very warm and friendly manner by Shona and offered a walk-in, as we didn’t have a reservation, but very politely told there would be about half hour wait for food, which we were fine with. We ordered some drinks, which were excellent, and food and set about chatting, soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying said drinks, an Americano for me and a Chai Latté for my companion.

The food came in what actually seemed like no time, and we were given just the right amount of attention by the equally lovely Lucas, providing for all our needs with a delightfully friendly manner. I had the Full Scottish Breakfast and my companion had the Lobster and Crayfish Roll, both of which were perfectly prepared and presented. Of particular note, the haggis which came with the Full Scottish was truly excellent!

Emzy made me another, excellent Americano mid-way through my meal and that put the icing on the cake, so to speak, of one of the best brunch experiences I’ve had anywhere in the World, from New York to Singapore, to Berlin and London. Bravo!

If you find yourself in need of a fortifying and delicious breakfast in the West End of Glasgow, this should be your preferred option,...