La Vita

A busy city centre Italian restaurant, perfect for a quick bite in between shopping, or a pre or post-theatre meal.

The 2017 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

La Vita has served Glaswegians and visitors to the city centre at its prime location on George Square for over a decade. At three stories tall, it still retains a family-run charm with its cosy interior and displays of old family photos. The mezzanine levels are open and relaxed, but there are plenty of nooks for a more intimate meal, too. The setup is ideal for a quick stop-off during the day – service is quick, and most tastes are catered for. While pasta dishes (GF available) and crisp stone-baked pizzas are staples, there’s plenty more on the menu with eggs Benedict or French toast at breakfast, and a large section dedicated to burgers and other meat dishes on the à la carte. The highlighted specialties are especially tempting, and the chip-shop inspired starter of battered black pudding and velvety pea purée is typical of their simple but moreish dishes. Desserts are ice-cream heavy, and with options like the ‘gelato burger’ – a toasted brioche bun soaking up melting vanilla ice-cream – La Vita will be a hit with the kids

• High point: Family-friendly
• Low point: Limited selection of spirits
• Notable dish: Italian Scottie