Attending the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow isn’t just about the sports — it’s also a fantastic chance to enjoy the city’s vibrant food and drink scene. Whether you’re after a quick coffee, a casual pint, or a sophisticated dining experience, Glasgow’s neighbourhoods around the Games venues offer something for every taste and budget. Here’s a guide to the top cafés and pubs near the main stadiums and venues, featuring budget, mid-range, and luxury options, along with travel tips to help you get there easily.
1. Near the Glasgow Green & Emirates Arena
Glasgow Green hosts key events including track cycling and some indoor sports, while the nearby Emirates Arena is a major venue for gymnastics and other competitions.
Budget: The Counting House – Wetherspoons
- Cuisine: Drinks, Pub Meals
- Why visit: Perfect for a quick, affordable caffeine fix or lunch on the go
- Getting there: A 15-minute walk from Glasgow Green
- Website: The Counting House
- Vibe: Casual, friendly spot with great customer reviews on TripAdvisor
Mid-range: Berlinkys
- Cuisine: Burgers
- Why visit: The venue is a live entertainment bar and restaurant offering free nightly shows seven days a week, featuring a variety of acts including comedy, bandaoke, aerial performances, fire eaters, roller skate popcorn girls, acoustic sets, duos and trios, six-piece live bands, all culminating with their fabulous showgirls.
- Getting there: 10-minute car ride from Emirates Arena, or short bus ride
- Tripadvisor: Berlinky’s Reviews & Photos
- Awards: Featured in Glasgow’s best pubs
Luxury: The Grahamson at The Radisson Blu
- Cuisine: Modern British with Scottish influences, fine dining
- Why visit: High-end dining with quality seasonal produce; great for celebrations after the games
- Getting there: 15 minutes by foot or quickly by car from Glasgow Green
- Website: The Grahamston
- Awards: Known for excellent service and elegant setting
2. Near Hampden Park (Main Stadium)
Hampden Park is the main stadium for athletics and the ceremonies, located in Mount Florida, a south-side Glasgow neighbourhood.
Budget: The Slouch
- Cuisine: Pub grub, fish and chips, hearty sandwiches
- Why visit: Traditional, unpretentious pub with affordable prices and great beer selection
- Getting there: A 10-minute walk from Hampden Park
- Website: The Slouch
- Vibe: Lively, local crowd, great place to soak up atmosphere
Mid-range: Turtle Bay
- Cuisine: Caribbean-inspired flavours, from brunch right through til late
- Why visit: Visit to enjoy authentic Caribbean flavours, vibrant rum and reggae vibes, and tempting tropical cocktails including a must-try Irn Bru Cocktail.
- Getting there: 15-minute taxi from Hamden Park
- Reviews: Consistently good ratings on TripAdvisor
Luxury: Ubiquitous Chip (Southside location)
- Cuisine: Modern Scottish fine dining, seasonal ingredients
- Why visit: Iconic Glasgow restaurant, perfect for a special occasion meal after a day at the stadium
- Getting there: 15-minute taxi from Hampden Park
- Website: Ubiquitous Chip
- Awards: Multiple local and national accolades, known for creativity and quality
3. Near the Kelvin Hall and The SSE Hydro (City Centre)
These two major venues in Glasgow’s city centre host indoor sports, concerts, and more.
Budget: The Kelvingrove Café
- Cuisine: Casual café fare, sandwiches, soups, cakes
- Why visit: Great budget spot close to Kelvin Hall with welcoming staff
- Getting there: Within walking distance of Kelvin Hall and 10 mins from SSE Hydro
- Website: Kelvingrove Café
- Vibe: Cozy and affordable, great for families and quick stops
Mid-range: The Finnieston
- Cuisine: Scottish seafood, gastro-pub classics
- Why visit: Trendy spot with excellent food and drinks, popular with locals and visitors
- Getting there: 15-minute walk or short taxi ride to SSE Hydro
- Website: The Finnieston
- Reviews: Highly rated for food quality and atmosphere
Luxury: Number 16
- Cuisine: Modern Scottish fine dining with tasting menus
- Why visit: Intimate, award-winning restaurant with an emphasis on local ingredients
- Getting there: 15-minute taxi from SSE Hydro or Kelvin Hall
- Website: Number 16
- Awards: Michelin Guide recommended
4. Near the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome (Emirates Arena)
Dedicated to cycling, the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome is a highlight of the Games.
Budget: The Drum & Monkey
- Cuisine: Traditional Scottish pub food, budget-friendly
- Why visit: Popular with locals, good for a casual meal and pint
- Getting there: 5-minute walk from Emirates Arena
- Website: The Drum & Monkey
- Vibe: Friendly, relaxed atmosphere
Mid-range: The Flight Club
- Cuisine: The cuisine features a mix of casual dining with pizza, small plates, and a broad selection of cocktails and drinks.
- Why visit: Visit to savour a variety of exciting flavours – from margaritas and espresso martinis to delicious pizza paddles and small plates – perfect for sharing with friends.
- Getting there: 20-minute drive from the Velodrome
- Website: Flight Club
- Reviews: Great local reputation and social media following
Luxury: Ox and Finch
- Cuisine: Modern Scottish tapas, small plates
- Why visit: Creative dining experience with exceptional reviews
- Getting there: 10-15 minutes by taxi from Emirates Arena
- TripAdvisor: Reviews & Information
- Awards: Multiple local dining awards
Getting Around to These Cafés & Pubs
Most venues and their nearby food spots are walkable, but for some locations, especially near Hampden Park, taxis or public transport may be easier, especially during peak Games times.
- Walking: Glasgow is very walkable, especially in the city centre and around Glasgow Green.
- Public Transport: Use the extensive bus and train networks to get between venues and neighbourhoods. See our detailed guide on Navigating Glasgow Transport During the Games.
- Taxi & Rideshare: Licensed taxis and Uber are widely available. Taxis from the city centre to Hampden Park typically cost £10–£15 depending on traffic.
- Booking Tips: Book restaurants in advance during the Games period, as demand will be high. Many offer online reservations through TripAdvisor or their own websites.
Final Tips for Enjoying Food & Drink Near the Games
- For budget-friendly options, check out local pubs and cafés early in the day to avoid crowds.
- Mid-range places often blend great food with a lively atmosphere, ideal for fans celebrating after events.
- Luxury dining is perfect for special evenings or impressing guests.
- If you don’t have tickets for certain events, many pubs offer live broadcasts and a great fan atmosphere. See our guide on Where to Watch the Commonwealth Games if You Don’t Have Tickets.
- Explore the local neighbourhoods around venues for hidden gems—our Local Neighbourhood Guides are a great resource.
For your full Commonwealth Games experience, check out our comprehensive guides on Where to Stay in Glasgow for the Games and the Ultimate Travel Guide.
Useful Booking & Review Sites:
This guide is designed to help you navigate Glasgow’s best food and drink options near the Commonwealth Games venues so you can enjoy every moment on and off the field!
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