The Tickled Trout

On Easter Monday I wanted to head to Dobbies to get inspiration for my garden at my new house (don't think I've mentioned it in my previous posts 😉). We opted to go to the one in Milngavie because this meant we could visit the splendid Tickled Trout pub for lunch. Part of the Vintage Inns franchise, it has a rustic charm and is set in beautiful surroundings of typical Scottish countryside. The building itself has a quaint feeling that continues inside with a beautiful log fire and tartan carpets.

The staff were friendly and attentive.  Only slight grumble was that I asked for a large glass of Sauvignon Blanc and was only given a small. Thankfully they only charged me for a small one and I can only presume they couldn't believe anyone would be ordering a large one with their lunch. Casa Legano  (I think) from Chile which was absolutely delicious. Maybe it was because it was a small glass but it disappeared quickly and with ease.  Priced at around £4.50, I was happy with that.

It wasn't just a liquid lunch though. For my food, I ordered scampi with chips. Not a dish I would order frequently, but for some reason as soon as I saw it on the menu it was what I wanted. The food came relatively quickly especially considering it was a bank holiday and it was busy. The scampi was delicious and beautifully complimented by the wine I'd chosen (a happy coincidence rather than a conscious choice on my part). I could have eaten them a good three time over. The chips I was pretty underwhelmed with if I'm being brutally honest but not so bad that it let the meal down. The salad accompaniment I can not comment on as I'm allergic to anything healthy (honest).

I can't remember how much the meal came to altogether as the other half paid but I do remember thinking it was very reasonable. We had a lovely meal, the staff were very friendly and it has a lovely ambience. If you're looking to get out of Glasgow City Centre but don't want to go too far you should definitely consider this lovely venue.

http://www.vintageinn.co.uk/content/vintage-inn/en/restaurants/scotland-northern-ireland/thetickledtroutbearsden

Mother's Day at La Vita

It's the day that daughters and sons all pay homage to the women who gave birth to us, Mothering Sunday. I opted that instead of buying my mum some perfume or something she didn't want, I'd give her something she really wanted. Time with yours truly! Now she maybe didn't really want this too much but I fancied a lunch out.

After meeting my mum and dad we had a wee wander down to George Square in Glasgow City Centre and into La Vita. This restaurant is a family favourite but I thought the food might be below par due to the occasion or the service rushed. I was pleasantly surprised. We all enjoyed a lovely meal. The food was so good I forgot to take pictures so I do apologise. For a starter I had the Mac and Cheese balls which were just the right amount of cheesy. This was followed by the Tagliatelle Calabrese. This was delicious and if I was wondered about them scrimping on portion sizes, I couldn't have been further from the truth. It was huge. In fact, I had to ask them to put the rest in a takeaway box that is still stuffed full. We each had a different ice cream sundae, each one as good as the last. Overall for a 3 course meal for 3, plus 3 soft drinks, 1 large glass of wine (for me, obvs) and a coffee I was happy with the bill being just under £80.

If you are looking for good Italian food right slap bang in Glasgow City Centre withs great service and huuuuuge portions, look no further than La Vita. Trust me you won't be disappointed AND you get the added benefit of a 'Drumstick' lolly with your bill....what's not to love!