Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow has been named as James Bond’s favourite eatery, beating off competition from 20 other venues in the UK and Ireland.
The guide from European travel blog GoEuro lists the top venues frequented by the sophisticated international agent in Ian Flemming and John Gardener’s novels and was created in partnership with 007 expert Matt Sherman, author of James Bond’s Cuisine: 007’s Every Last Meal.
Featured in Gardener’s 1981 book ‘Licence Renewed’, the iconic Grand Central Hotel’s decadent interior, grand architecture, location at the heart of the city and roster of famous former guests including JFK and Frank Sinatra, have placed the hotel in the good grace of the world’s most sophisticated spy.
Known for its stylish champagne bar Champagne Central, which overlooks Glasgow’s bustling central train station, the MI6 agent’s cocktail of choice, the martini, is a firm favourite on the hotel’s refined drinks menu.
The iconic agent is described in ‘License Renewed’ as enjoying a hearty breakfast of porridge, scrambled eggs, toast and coffee at the hotel, before ‘sleeping like a baby’ in one of the comfortable rooms. Bond then visits the hotel’s Malmaison restaurant, which closed in December 1984, to sit down to a meal of smoked salmon and fillet steak – dishes which are still served today in the hotel’s Tempus restaurant.
Worthy of the world’s most distinguished spy
Laurie Nicol, general manager of the Grand Central Hotel, said: “We’re thrilled that Grand Central has been handpicked as Bond’s favourite venue in the UK and Ireland. We believe the hotel’s rich history, stunning architecture, stylish design and sophisticated service make it worthy of the world’s most distinguished spy and it’s fantastic that the experts at GoEuro agree.
“To be ranked above so many prestigious eateries across the country in this exclusive guide makes the recognition all the more prestigious and reinforces Glasgow’s position as a first-class travel destination.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming foodies, travellers and Bond fans alike to Grand Central Hotel to discover 007’s favourite hangout and wine and dine like the classy secret agent himself.”
Grand Central Hotel is joined on the list by a number of famous restaurants including The Ivy and Café Royal in London’s West End.
The ranking detailing all of the featured restaurants can be viewed here
About Grand Central Hotel
Grand Central Hotel, Glasgow is a recipient of seven awards at the Scottish Hotel Awards 2013 including Scottish Hotel of the Year.
The hotel is part of the PH Hotels collection of 21 properties across the UK. In 2010, it underwent a £20 million refurbishment, transforming it in to one of the city’s most stylish wedding, conference, training, banqueting and short break properties.
Located in the centre of the city, adjacent to Glasgow Central train station, the four-star hotel offers 21 flexible event rooms all boasting state-of-the-art technology and with room for up to 400 guests or delegates.
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