It’s not every day that you switch on the evening news and see your own street, with familiar faces from local shops and businesses singing praises about living there.
Yet, that’s precisely what occurred last week when Strathbungo in Glasgow’s south side was declared the city’s coolest neighbourhood – and even more impressively, one of the world’s coolest.
This is according to Time Out, who have unveiled a fresh list of the most desirable, trendy, and intriguing places to reside, based on insights from their expert writers. Strathbungo proudly holds the 22nd spot – surpassing areas like East Hollywood, Ekkamai in Bangkok and San Rafael in Mexico City.
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The experts suggest that numerous factors contribute to a neighbourhood being deemed ‘cool’. Of course, cafes, bars and restaurants are essential, but that’s no longer sufficient – it must embody the community and culture of your city, offering something for everyone to appreciate, reports the Daily Record.
Having resided in Strathbungo for some time, it continues to amaze me. It’s a compact area – tucked near Queen’s Park and Govanhill – yet brimming with incredible amenities, entertaining events, stunning landscapes and remarkable architecture that it’s difficult to go a few days without discovering something new.
The south side’s enviable cafe scene is a major draw for many on a Sunday morning, with Burnfield Bakery on Pollokshaws Road being a particular crowd-pleaser. The window display is always brimming with mouth-watering Viennoiserie-inspired treats, from cinnamon buns to babkas, perfect for savouring with a coffee while strolling around the area.
Pollokshaws Road also hosts Gusto and Relish, 721 Hinba, Grain and Grind, and Sunnyacre – all top-notch choices for your morning caffeine and pastry needs.
But if you’re after something more filling later in the day, there’s certainly no lack of restaurants. The Bungo is the perfect cosy spot for a meal or a few drinks, and it’s also an excellent place for people-watching.
For fans of Japanese food, Wasabi is a must-visit. Sushi, katsu curry, and ramen are just some of the tasty dishes on offer, along with several different matcha flavours – undoubtedly the beverage of the moment.
While there may not be as many late-night bars compared to the city centre – which I believe is one of the only downsides of living here – there are still plenty of fantastic spots to spend an evening. Cosy bars like the Allison Arms and Koelschip Yard are plentiful, so you’ll never be short of places to visit.
The Rum Shack is a fantastic spot if you’re in the mood for a dance, hosting DJs from across the globe and offering a diverse range of music styles that perfectly encapsulate the community spirit of Strathbungo.
In my view, Strathbungo truly shines during the autumn months. It’s cool enough to bundle up and enjoy a leisurely stroll with a warm coffee in hand, without it being unbearably cold.
A mere five-minute walk will land you in the lush greenery of Queen’s Park, which becomes even more breathtaking as the leaves begin to change.
If retail therapy is on your agenda, make sure to visit the Cooperage – a wonderful collection of shops nestled away from the main thoroughfare. Some Great Reward is an excellent choice for record shopping, while Seamstress Vintage offers a unique selection of clothing items you won’t find in your average store.
Charity shops are plentiful in this area, and Category Is Books stands out as a superb independent queer bookstore. They host regular readings and events, and even offer a book delivery service.
Strathbungo may not have the glitz and glamour of some areas in the west or south of Glasgow, but its strong sense of identity and wealth of offerings are likely why it’s been recognised as one of the coolest places in the world.
Further into Shawlands, there’s a proposal to construct flats on the shopping arcade site – a move that has left many locals scratching their heads, uncertain of its impact on local property values.
However, Strathbungo retains all its charm and boasts lower housing prices, although these are rapidly increasing.
With superb transport connections to the city centre, ample parking, and the ever-present option of a flat white and almond croissant nearby, what’s not to like?