Strathbungo’s appeal is very clear to see after living here for a while (Image: Daily Record/Nicola Roy)
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, located in the south side of Glasgow, was declared as the city’s trendiest neighbourhood – and even more impressively, one of the hippest in the entire world.
This is according to Time Out, who have unveiled a fresh list of the most appealing, fashionable, 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.
The experts suggest that numerous different factors contribute to a neighbourhood being labelled as ‘cool’.
READ MORE The coolest British neighbourhoods revealed – and number one is not in London
Of course, cafes, bars and restaurants are essential, but that alone doesn’t cut it anymore – it must embody the community and culture of your city, offering something for everyone to relish.
Having resided in Strathbungo for some time, it continues to astound me. It’s a compact area – snuggled near Queen’s Park and Govanhill – yet brimming with an array of fantastic facilities, entertaining events, stunning landscapes and remarkable architecture that it’s challenging to go a few days without discovering something new, reports the Daily Record.
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 coffee and pastry indulgence.
However, if you’re in the mood for something heartier later in the day, there’s certainly no dearth of restaurants.
The Bungo is the quintessential cosy spot for a meal or a few drinks, and it also offers prime people-watching opportunities.
For Japanese cuisine enthusiasts, Wasabi is a must-visit.
Sushi, katsu curry and ramen are just some of the delectable dishes on offer, along with several matcha flavours – undoubtedly the beverage du jour.
The Bungo is a great people-watching spot (Image: Daily Record/Nicola Roy)
While the area may not boast as many late-night bars as the city centre – one of the few downsides of residing here, in my view – there are still plenty of fantastic spots to spend an evening.
Cosy bars abound here, from the Allison Arms to Koelschip Yard, ensuring you’re never short of options.
The Rum Shack is a fantastic spot if you’re in the mood for a dance, hosting DJs from across the globe and showcasing 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 walk with a warm coffee in hand, without it being unbearably cold.
A mere five-minute stroll will land you in the lush beauty 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 typical stores.
Wasabi is a must-visit if you love Japanese food (Image: Daily Record/Nicola Roy)
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 western or southern areas of Glasgow, but its strong sense of identity and wealth of attractions are undeniable.
It’s no wonder it has been recognised as one of the coolest places in the world.
Strathbungo’s cafes, restaurants, bars and shops are one of the great things about living there (Image: Daily Record/Nicola Roy)
Further into Shawlands, plans are afoot to construct flats on the shopping arcade site, leaving many locals scratching their heads, uncertain of its impact on local property prices.
However, Strathbungo retains all its charm and boasts lower house prices, although these are rapidly increasing.
With superb transport links to the city centre, ample parking, and the ever-present option of a flat white and almond croissant nearby, what’s not to adore?
