LOBO
Mediterranean inspired, 758 Pollokshaws Rd, Glasgow G41 2AE
£80 for six small plates and two drinks
We went to Lobo in the South Side at the start of their new menu, which was fun. They rotate it regularly – we didn’t find out exactly how often, but it felt like we were catching it fresh. The whole concept is small plates, which is definitely still having its moment. We wondered if we end up eating more this way. Probably. But it’s also just a fun way to eat.
The vibe
Kind of low-lit and atmospheric without being try-hard. We agreed it’s the kind of place that works well for a night out with friends – buzzy, but still relaxed. It felt like people were there to enjoy themselves, which makes a difference.
The service
No complaints. The staff were warm and helpful without hovering. You could tell they knew the menu and actually liked the food they were serving, which always makes you feel more confident ordering.
The food
We started with two dishes that are always on the menu – the house focaccia with anchovy butter, and the hash brown patatas bravas. The focaccia was a standout. Light, fresh, and the anchovy butter was the perfect match. Genuinely delicious.
The patatas bravas were like big hash brown bars, topped with alternating blobs of tomato and mayo-style sauces. We were a little split here – one of us liked the thick-cut style, the other would’ve preferred thinner slices for more crunch. Still tasty though.
To break up the carbs, we ordered the fennel, celeriac and orange salad, which was simple but great. Light, zingy, and an excellent palate cleanser between heavier plates.
Then we went for the fried gnocchi with peas, wild garlic, cheddar custard (yes, custard), and the risotto-style ox cheek ragu.
The gnocchi was another split decision – one of us really liked it, especially the cheddar custard, which was a bit unexpected but worked well with the peas. The other felt it could’ve been cooked slightly differently – maybe just a touch less, or cut smaller. Still interesting though.
As for the ox cheek risotto… Basil loved it, but Brie wasn't the biggest fan. It was fried, which gave it more of a baked rice vibe than a traditional risotto, and that didn’t quite land for us. It tasted fine, but it felt like it didn’t know what it wanted to be. Call it baked rice and we’d probably be more on board.
Final thoughts
We both agreed that Lobo is doing something interesting. The food’s thoughtful and playful, and the atmosphere makes it a really easy place to spend a few hours. It’s not our new favourite restaurant, but it’s one of the better places we’ve been in a while. We’d go back – probably with friends, and probably once the menu changes again.
Three Things to Know About Lobo:
- Laidback atmosphere – Casual but with a nice buzz. Great for a catch-up with friends.
- Inventive small plates that rotate – Some real highlights (the focaccia, the salad), others we wouldn’t rush to order again. It’s playful food, meant to be shared.
- Friendly, attentive service – Staff were warm and helpful without being over the top. The whole place feels easy and well-paced.