Singl-end

Nestled amongst the edgy Glasgow School of Art, it’s no surprise one of the city’s hippest brunch spots can be found here. Singl-end is a “community café and bakehouse”. Often tussling for first place spot on Glasgow’s Trip Advisor dining page, the humble “granny flat” exterior exudes character, but does raise eyebrows as to how somewhere so quaint could compete against more glam venues around city. Believe me, the secret lies within.

Entering the café, you’re met with a table spread boasting enough delectable baked goods to sink a small vessel on the Clyde, all freshly baked daily on the premises. Think cakes, muffins, tray-bakes, pastries and fresh loaves of bread. Not to mention dishes of their daily special salads, always featuring fresh, seasonal, and exotic flavours.

A glance over the menu the choice is never-ending, with bountiful options to suit vegetarians, vegans and meat-lovers alike. Fully-loaded fry-ups; sweet and fruity layered toasts; an entire section dedicated to eggs; open sandwiches stacked so high it’s a wonder they don’t topple; all served with your choice of seven different types of homemade bread and an array of extra sides. They are also fully-licensed which is why Singl-end has laid scene to many a boozy birthday brunch or post-exam tipple.

Back to that table by the door: No matter how hard I try and how much the waistband on my jeans tells me no, it is nigh-impossible to leave the place without a gander at their famous cakes (see @singlendcafe_garnethill on Instagram for daily mouth-watering updates). Forever squeezing in “just a slice” after another amazing brunch.

Now, I must confess, when I started this blog I promised affordability to balance out the weekly Jägerbombs deficit. Singl-end is not ridiculously expensive, but it is by no means Glasgow’s bargain brunch spot. However, it is by far my favourite haunt for a hearty breakfast, making it the perfect place to drag your parents when they come to restock your cupboards with more baked beans and super noodles.

So, if you ever find yourself in that strange end of town where West-End cool meets the peculiarity of Sauchiehall Street, do pay a visit for some coffee and cake… and the baked eggs … and maybe a smoked salmon open sandwich… oh, and you really must try the…