The Hug And Pint

Glasgow, Scotland, GB

Cook a seaweed salad, coconut mango pudding and sweet soy coconut tempeh in #ABiteToEat with The Hug And Pint in Glasgow, Scotland.

How did you get started?

The Hug and Pint initially opened up as a pub back in June last year. The owners wanted to sell food out of the small space we had, and thought vegan Asian street food would work a treat. Initially we just sold food in takeaway boxes to drinkers and gig-goers, but as we got more popular, we decided to grow up, get some crockery, and do proper food service. Almost a year later and here we are, busier than ever.

Where are you located?

We’re on Great Western Road, near St. George’s Cross, in the leafy West End of Glasgow.

What are your specialities?

Our menu focusses on vegan Pan-Asian food. We typically run four mains daily and a handful of sides, all of which rotate constantly according to what we’ve been making. We’re probably best known for our kimchi and our sweet and hot tempeh- when they’re not on the menu, you can guarantee someone will be asking for them! A lot of people are fond of the Black Pepper Aubergine and the Sweet Tamarind Plantain too.

What's your personal favorite thing on the menu?

A lot of the dishes have been my favourite at some point or other; right now though, I’m really into our mushroom broth. The broth itself is beautifully flavoured; we make it with lots of shiitake, lemongrass, chilli, ginger, and galangal. It’s got this huge, bold mushroom flavour but all these delicate notes through it too. With rice noodles, fried tofu, and a handful of fresh coriander, it makes for a super-satisfying meal.

What's on the stereo?

Between the chefs, bar staff and venue staff (many if not most of whom are musicians or DJs themselves), we have pretty wide-ranging musical tastes, so what we play varies as much as the menu. Depending who’s on and what the mood is when you visit, you might hear some old-school Hip Hop, Death Metal, Country, Electronic, World Music, or Indie.

Where else should we visit in your area?

Great Western Road is home to a great little community of eateries and delis, so it’s a great place to explore if you’re into food. I’d definitely check out Lupe Pintos, which is stuffed full of South American imports, from peppers and pastes to beers and mezcal. As for places to hang out, Inn Deep (one of my favourite pubs) and Tchai Ovna (an amazing tea cafe by the river) are both good shouts. If it’s a sunny day though, I’d go straight to the Botanic Gardens or Kelvingrove Park- and take some of our food to go!

Do you host any special events?

We have bands playing downstairs virtually every night. This month, for example, we’ve hosted the likes of Steve Ignorant, Mothers and The KVB. Now and then we also hold bigger events like our Big Weekend festival. We’re always open to new things though and have lots planned for the future too. Next up for the kitchen is the Lupe Pinto’s Chilli Cook- Off! We're also catering weddings and attending a few festivals this summer.

Is there anything else you'd like us to know?

Come in and see us if you're in Glasgow and get in touch if you've any questions!