Ollie's

A cosy little Southside bistro among grand tenements, with an extensive, seasonal menu offering eclectic and impressive food.

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

Ollie's sits in a short row of quirky independent shops in leafy, residential Nithsdale Road, and at first glance looks like an unassuming if rather smart neighbourhood café. Open all day, it does indeed function as a gathering place for locals, but as part of Alan Tomkins’ empire (Urban Brasserie, Blue Dog, the Western Club, among others), it has a bit more going for it than your average corner coffeeshop. The cooking here is big and bold, and if anything the dishes are more interesting than they read on the menu. Crab linguine tangles properly al dente pasta with sweet white and brown meat, chilli and rocket, while a baked fillet of cod with Thai curry is authentically hot, light and bright. There are good pizzas (all under a tenner), sandwiches and salads, and excellent desserts such as a smooth and sweet peanut butter parfait balanced by a sharp berry compote. A cheerful interior has both proper, comfy tables – where you can stretch out and enjoy three courses – and bar stools for a quick coffee-and-cake pitstop.

• High point: Big, bold flavours
• Low point: You may need a side of fries
• Notable dish: Baked fillet of cod with king prawn Thai curry

Listed in the Glasgow Larder – order a print copy (free + p&p).