El Gusto

A small, enthusiastic and creative tapas diner close to Kelvingrove Park, with a big fat Spanish heart.

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

Proud of his Andalucian origins, owner Guillermo de la Orden infuses both menu and venue with eccentric enthusiasm. These roots inspire Moorish décor such as fringed hanging lampshades of bold and varied colours, while homemade spice mixes go into Andalusi dishes inspired by the region. When not creating the paellas and tapas that fill an inventive menu he’s chatting to guests. Or when in party mode, serenading them with a ukulele and inviting them to grab a tambourine. While his passion is infectious, the small restaurant that nestles near to Kelvingrove Park is relaxed and homely. Rabbit is popular in Spain but rarely appears on Glasgow tapas menus – here it’s delicately cooked with North African flavours of almond and cinnamon. Gambas pil-pil could use more chilli kick to balance the paprika, but the mushrooms in cream sauce are delicious. Another Spanish staple makes lunchtime worth a visit – if the thought of a chunky crusty bread sandwich stuffed with calamares sends an eyebrow shooting skywards at first glance, close your eyes and savour it. Vamos!

• High point: Menu made from the heart
• Low point: Owl print pink cushions a bit out of place
• Notable dish: Prawns in Andalucian sauce