The insider’s guide to eating out in Glasgow

Glasgow boasts easy access to some of the very best produce in the UK: fresh fish and oysters from the west coast, beef from the great Scottish herds. All of these contribute to the existence of some excellent restaurants. The First Post's top five have been chosen for atmosphere and good value as much as for good food. All have been nominated by people who live and work in the city.

Guy's Restaurant and Bar24 Candleriggs
Guy Cowan was a location caterer on many top movies, now he's started his own small restaurant. Simple, unpretentious food with great flavours - try the pan-fried lemon sole with fruit crumble to follow - but too easy to fill up on the irresistible melba toast before you even start. (closed all day Monday)
£40 for two with wine. contact: +44 141 552 1114 guysrestaurant.co.uk

Cafe Gandolfi 64 Albion Street
Cafe Gandolfi has been a Glasgow favourite since it was established in 1979. Originally part of the old cheese market, it serves Scottish treats such as Cullen skink, haggis and Stornaway black pudding alongside New York Pastrami and pasta. Open all day for tea and scones or something more substantial.
£40 for two with wine. contact: +44 141 552 6813 cafegandolfi.com

Red Onion 257 West Campbell Street
John Quigley was the tour chef for Tina Turner, Bryan Adams and Paul McCartney, but after opening his restaurant has become a real asset to the city. Red Onion delivers all day eating and drinking in a warm, relaxed atmosphere. East meets west with fantastic tempura alongside fish and chips with mushy peas.
Most mains are around £40 for two. contact: +44 141 221 6000 red-onion.co.uk

Dahkin First floor, 89 Candleriggs
The cool, simple flavours of southern Indian cuisine are expertly executed here. The set lunch delivers good value at £9.95 and the staff are excellent at guiding you through their specialities. Try Masala Uttapam, a thick pancake mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes and green chillies, served with coconut chutney. The dosas are not to be missed.
contact: +44 141 553 2585 dakhin.com

Two Fat Ladies 118a Blythswood Street
Sister restaurant to one of Glasgow's favourites (at 88 Dumbarton Road, hence the name). Mainly fish but there are other options if that is not what you fancy. Good seasonal produce that is well cooked with style. Warming and welcoming.
Set lunch menu with two courses for £13.50. contact: +44 141 847 0088 twofatladiesrestaurant.com