Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the high street, the Babbity Bowster, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, is well worth a detour up the cobbled side streets of Merchant City. Situated in a Robert Adam townhouse circa 1790, the historic venue was transformed into a pub and hotel in 1985 to instant acclaim and has featured in The Good Pub Guide for a remarkable 23 years. You can now find a downstairs bar, an upstairs restaurant (JC's Bouchon at the Babbity) and six en-suite bedrooms in this deceptively sized establishment.

Although thoroughly Scottish in name (the 'bab at the bowster' is an ancient Scottish wedding dance), there is a notable French influence when it comes to the food. This is thanks to expert chef Jean-Claude Marcoccio, whose creations have received Michelin recognition for the last five years. All day in the bar, expect hearty classics such as Toulouse sausages and mash, potted rabbit and toasted open sandwiches. In the evenings, head upstairs to sample the refined tastes of bouillabaisse, herb-and-Dijon-mustardc rusted rack of Border lamb, or pan-seared scallops with roasted hazelnut butter and black pudding.

All food is freshly prepared on the premises and the ingredients are chosen according to seasonality, resulting in a vibrant and ever-changing menu. With such great food and live Scottish music every Saturday, the Babbity Bowster is great for an all-round taste of what Glasgow has to offer.