Just around the corner from Drosten, Café Gandolfi has been a fixture of Glasgow’s Merchant City for decades. We caught up with owner Seumas MacInnes and his son Alasdair to talk about the history of the cafe, their connection to the area, and what has kept Gandolfi at the heart of Glasgow for so many years.
Cafe Gandolfi has been part of the Merchant City for so long — what does the area mean to you, and how have you seen it change over the years?
When Café Gandolfi opened there was nothing here other than a rundown market, a couple of bars, and a few clothing manufacturers. It has completely transformed. And maybe I’m being cheeky but I believe Gandolfi was one of the catalysts for that change. And for this very reason this area means everything to me.
What do you think has kept people coming back to Gandolfi over the years?
You’d have to ask them! But I’d like to think that it is because Gandolfi has always been run by an owner who is visible and able to keep standards high and consistent. Over the years we’ve had some great staff and as I’ve always said staff are a restaurant’s greatest asset.
Is there a particular dish, drink or menu item that feels especially synonymous with Gandolfi?
The menu has changed over the years from egg mayo and tuna baguettes to a much more refined reflection of Scottish produce. We love all the newer dishes on our menu but with such a long history, we also love celebrating it with a specials board full of nostalgic dishes.
What’s the best part of being part of the Glasgow community, and are there any other local places you find yourself spending time in?
Although I celebrate my Hebridean heritage I feel very much a Glaswegian and I love my city. There are so many places I’ve been to over the years – some have gone and some have remained, but there is still a great surge of exciting new places opening on the scene. Current favourites are; The Clarence is great any time of day or week, and their sister restaurant Brett which I haven’t been to for a while but am always delighted to spend time there. And you can’t go wrong with Eusebis and Crabshakk.
Outside of the café, what are you currently enjoying?
At home reading a book, cooking for my family and spending time with my 7 month old grand-daughter.
