Glasgow private members club opens public restaurant

The restaurant opened as the result of a partnership between the club and restaurateur Alan Tomkins, who has been behind restaurants including Papingo, Blue Dog, Vronis, and Urban Bar and Grill.

The Western Club Restaurant serves ‘contemporary, classic food’ using seasonal ingredients from around Scotland. The kitchen is run by head chef Peter Wilson, formerly of Lochgreen House and Piersland House in Troon.

The opening of The Western Club Restaurant marks the first time in the club’s 190 year history that it has been open to the public.

Chairman of The Western Club Jon Cossar said: “There is an anticipatory excitement amongst all of us at the Western Club about this new phase in the club’s evolution, partnering with one of Glasgow’s most respected restaurateurs.  

“We very much hope this will be the catalyst to ensuring the ongoing success and long term future of the club, suiting the needs of its members in the 21st century.”

Incorporating history​

The club’s dining room underwent a transformation by international designer Amanda Rosa to transform it into a public restaurant. The aim behind the design was to ‘bring the history and grandeur up-to-date’, resulting in a ‘contemporary, stylish’ look which reflects the new restaurant’s location in Royal Exchange Square.

 “The minute I walked into the club’s dining room I instantly knew it would make the most fantastic restaurant,” explained Tomkins.

“With views over what is arguably Glasgow’s most beautiful square, and the stunning buildings created by Glasgow’s merchants of the past, I could envisage today’s business leaders doing deals in this space and diners enjoying its elegance.

“It is a truly exciting opportunity to bring this dining experience, in this exceptional location, to the public for the first time.”