Platform @ The Argyle Street Arches
253 Argyle Street
What is it - The famous Arches nightclub closed its doors for the last time in 2015 with many people wondering what would happen to this iconic venue. The fact that it ended so abruptly left a bitter taste in a lot of people mouths so it was important it was something that would bring people back to the venue. Platform launched in March this year, a new street food market opening every Friday, Saturday and Sunday underneath the legendary archways. At Platform the showcase independent sellers that use locally and sustainably sourced, seasonal, free range and fair trade produce. You will also find The Super Glasgow Market here most Sundays selling the best in Independent Retail, Vintage and Flea.
Interesting fact - This once iconic nightclub which first opened in 1991 was once voted 12th best club in the world by a a DJ Magazine poll closed its doors as a nightclub in the summer of 2015. This forced closure caused uproar with a many including over 400 figures from the Scottish cultural scene, including Irvine Welsh, Liz Lochhead and members of Franz Ferdinand, Belle and Sebastian and Mogwai, who along with 40,000 members of the public signed a petition to have the venue its licence granted back. Unfortunately this didn't happen but in its new guise it is still being used to bring an exciting and innovative edge to the city.
Verdict - This is a great addition to the city centres dining scene, which in recent times seems to be over-run by big chains. You will find several of these types of venues in London which are always busy so its about time Glasgow had a permanent food market that it can be proud of.
Drink - As well as the food stalls you will also find Thomson’s Coffee Roasters cafe here. Thom-son’s are a independently-owned Scottish family business with a rich heritage going back 175 years in Glasgow. Recently though the Innis and Gunn took over an entire Arch to create a micro-brewery and bar. The bar offers 14 draft craft beers, including of Innis & Gunn Lager served from tanks straight from the brewery, along with brewer’s full range of IPAs and barrel-aged beers. This investment from Innis and Gunn shows that Platform is growing and here to stay which is great news for the venue.
Food - Platform is open 11am until 10pm Friday, Saturday and Sunday with the cafe opened all week. The food stall offer everything you could ever want from Grilled Lamb Chops with caralmalised red onion pickle from Babu Bombay Street Kitchen to the tastiest wee burgers from Tiny Dancer’s Slider Pantry. Other food vendors include ShrimpWreck, Gallus Pasta, Ginger & Chilli, Box Office Pizza, Shawarmarama, Tiny Dancer’s Slider Pantry,, Freddy & Hicks and Three Sisters Bake.
Children - Kid and dog friendly here and happy to do smaller portions for the wee ones.
Alfresco - There is no chance of catching any rays inside or outside underneath Hielanman's Um-brella on Argyle Street but then again why go outside when the food and drink is so good inside?
Perfect for - A great place to take the kids to experience new and locally sourced food in a pretty cool environment. It is also the perfect venue to “fuel up” before a big night out in town.
Avoid if - You prefer a linen clad table and and waiters taking your order when you dine out.
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