Glasgow Date Night Ideas – From Fine Dining to Late-Night Fun

Is there anything more awkward than a date night that falls flat? Whether it’s with the love of your life who you’ve been with for years, or a first date (where you might expect a few nerves) the feeling is still the same. What could I have done better? The answer is simple. Change it up! Glasgow is so nearby and has so many options for unique and memorable date nights that there’s no excuse to go to the same exact restaurant time and time again. If you’re struggling to come up with something inventive then fear not, we’ve done the digging so you don’t have to.

Start With Food Worth Sharing

We aren’t going terribly off-piste here, but there – is – still a time and place for great good. Classic date nights should be celebrated and Glasgow has more than its fair share of romantic dining spots. Ubiquitous Chip, for example. It’s lush, leafy, and oh-so cosy – all soft-focus illuminated under twinkling fairy lights. One of the nicest things about it is that you can dress it up or down however you’d like. There are six different spaces within Ubiquitous Chip, each serving its own purpose.

If you’re really just after a tipple then the Rooftop Bar is a great space (when Glasgow’s weather Gods are smiling) or the Whiskey Bar is perfect for getting to know one of Scotland’s speciality drinks. If you’re after food then the brasserie serves slightly more casual fair. Think small plates, made with Scottish ingredients, packing a punch from more exotic flavours and served in a fairly casual manner. If a pork and fennel scotch egg, or Shetland mussels in a devilishly hot tomato sauce float your boat – go brasserie.

If you really want to push the boat out, go for the tasting menu in the restaurant. At £80 it’s well into special occasion territory, but it’s so worth it. You tend to eat eight or nine courses of the best seasonal produce – and you can pop on a wine pairing as well if you’d like.

Comedy Clubs: Laugh Until It Hurts

Is it a little biased to say that the Scots are the funniest people in the world? Kevin Bridges, Frankie Boyle, Billy Connolly, they all started out at comedy clubs in Scotland. Laughter is the best way of chatting somebody up, but if you can’t rely on your own comedic timing, why not let somebody else do the job for you? Glasgow’s comedy scene is legendary, so make use of it!

The Stand Comedy Club is easily your best bet. It’s got dimly lit, cosy vibes, perfect for bring out your best side and letting your hair down. There are low ceilings, laughter bouncing off walls, and it’s well known for a bit of audience participation. Don’t look too nervous, or you know it’ll be you up on stage. It’s electric, chaotic, occasionally awkward, and absolutely brilliant. Plus, if the jokes are terrible, laughing at how bad they are still counts as bonding.

Alea Casino: Late-Night Glamour Done Right

Did you first lock eyes across the poker table? Are you both just partial to a few rounds of online slots? Perhaps you’re just James Bond fans looking to recreate a bit of the glamour and intrigue for yourselves. Whatever the reason, for couples looking to add a bit of excitement to their evening, Alea Casino in Glasgow is a top choice. It’s a sophisticated setting with table games, live entertainment, and a cocktail bar overlooking the River Clyde.

To make it a night to remember, instruct your loved one to dress to the nines. Betting at the roulette wheel feels much more exclusive in a cocktail dress or tuxedo. Even if you just want to enjoy a drink and a chat with a view, it’s a nice spot for it. The croupiers are super welcoming here, so if you have any worries about the rules or what bets are available, don’t be afraid to ask – on a quiet night they’ll sometimes give you your own private blackjack lesson.