Discovering a great steak restaurant never loses its charm, especially when it completely takes you by surprise. Hidden away beneath Glasgow Central Station, I had no idea Alston Bar & Beef was even there, despite walking past the door almost every day on my morning commute. The restaurant has been around since 2014, showcasing the very finest Scottish beef from Tweed valley and premium gins, in a building full of history and charm.
Uncover the secret Alston Bar & Beef underneath Central Station.
DesignMyNight’s Review Of Alston Bar & Beef Glasgow
The moment I stepped inside, having just weaved my way through the crowds in the station, I felt instantly calm. The restaurant felt so sleek and sophisticated, and I couldn’t believe this was all hidden away beneath the station. Despite being underground with no windows, the space feels open and bright. It’s like a little oasis you can escape to for a couple of hours - the kind of place that instantly makes you want to settle in, order a great steak and unwind, all while the chaos of the busy station carries on just above your head.
We kicked things off with a cocktail (a mocktail for me) - a classic Tom Collins (£10.50) for my friend and a raspberry & mint buck (£7) 0% option for me. Both were equally refreshing and delicious, the perfect start to the meal.
Enjoy cocktails and prime Scottish beef at your weekend lunch.
We were really impressed that even on a Saturday afternoon, we could still enjoy the set lunch menu (three courses for £29) which is available Monday to Friday from 12–5pm and on Saturdays until 4pm. Of course, the steak is the star of the show—but the menu definitely isn’t just for steak lovers. There were plenty of other mains to choose from and, honestly, a lot of them sounded just as tempting.
For starters, I was immediately drawn to the chermoula chicken thigh, served with creamy labneh and crispy roasted chickpeas. It was one of those dishes where you try to eat slowly just so it lasts a little longer. My friend opted for the citrus cured trout, which was delicately cured and served with a fennel, potato and dill salad. It was fresh and bright, with a raspberry vinaigrette that added just the right tangy sweetness, like summer on a plate.
Now for the main event, and the reason I came in the first place, the Tweed valley flank steak frites. I can confirm it did not disappoint. The steak was perfectly cooked and beautifully tender, served with a rich peppercorn sauce and crispy fries. Think comfort food at its most luxurious, a proper Saturday lunch treat.
The main event: the Alston Bar & Beef menu is all about great steaks.
Of course, we couldn’t resist dessert - nothing new there. I was drawn to the chocolate crepes, which instantly took me back to childhood. There’s something so nostalgic about crepes, especially when served with a rich cherry sauce and a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side. Pure comfort on a plate, it felt like the perfect warm hug to end an indulgent meal. While I was happily tucking into my crepes and feeling like a kid again, my friend was enjoying something a little more sophisticated - the margarita cranachan tequila. A fun twist on a classic, the sweet berries combined with a subtle tequila kick made for a dream of a sweet treat.
Overall: Alston Bar & Beef
Alston Bar & Beef is a surprising little haven tucked beneath Glasgow Central Station - a calm, stylish spot that feels worlds away from the hustle above. The food strikes the perfect balance between comforting and refined, from tender, flavourful steak to vibrant starters and nostalgic desserts. Whether you’re after a special night out or a peaceful escape, this hidden gem is well worth discovering.
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💰 Price: Around £75 for three courses for two people and a cocktail each. 📍 Address: Unit 19, Central Station, 79 Gordon Street, Glasgow G1 3SQ. 👌 Perfect for: A relaxed yet special meal when you want great food in a stylish, unpretentious setting. ⭐ Need to know: They serve a set lunch menu Monday through Saturday, and a Sunday roast menu. |
If you're a steak lover too, book your table at Alston Bar & Beef.
