(Some of) The Best Lunches On The Go
Govanhill is known for its vibrant food culture showcasing flavours from all over the world.vIn the first of a new series, we’ve rounded up some of our readers’ favourite lunches to grab when you’re out and about – for around a fiver or less.
A butty from Nan’s on Inglefield Street
Words and images by Jack Howse
Nan’s Salad Rolls – 57-77 Inglefield Street
Something of a cult, Nan’s has been serving Govanhillians for nearly 50 years. “It’s legendary!!!!” said one of our readers. “Marie and her girls are fantastic, offering a cheery face, a bit of banter and lots of good food at fantastic prices.”
Our pick Bag any of their rolls stuffed with fillings and all the salads for £2.25
Fulton’s – 354-356 Victoria Road
The unassuming cafe on the corner of Victoria Road and Calder Street was recommended to us time and time again; not just for their food but the service from the couple who own it. The two Graham’s have run Fulton’s for over 20 years.
Our pick Their soup and sandwich deal is a hearty meal in the winter months at £6.50
Transylvania Coffee and Food – 462 Victoria Road
Known across Govanhill for their decadent Christmas and Halloween displays – it’s sometimes easy to forget that Transylvania makes some of the best pastries on Victoria Road, bringing the flavour of Romania to the streets of Govanhill.
Our pick Try their white cheese turnover for £3
Kurdish Street Food – 12-14 Allison Street
I would hazard a guess that everyone reading this loves, or know someone who loves their falafel wrap. What is there to say that hasn’t already been said? Juicy, freshly made falafel, crunchy and varied salad all wrapped in the fluffiest bread this side of the Clyde.
Our pick Erm… the £4 falafel wrap of course!
Delicious Corner – 232 Allison Street
What it says on the tin, a wee takeaway shop on the corner of Allison Street and Annette Street serving up some delicious South Asian snacks from samosa salad to aloo tikki.
Our pick If you’re hungry, you can’t go wrong with their £3.50 kebab roll
Party Cake – 410 Victoria Road
The biggest smile on Victoria Road can be found in the humble Party Cake where you can find Ramazan serving up some traditional Turkish treats, including (unsurprisingly) probably the best Baklava in Govanhill.
Our pick Get one of Ramazan’s massive cheese açma (croissant-like pastries) for just £1.80
Short Long Black – 501 Victoria Road
Your best bet might be to get yourself a midweek lunch from this popular Southside hangout as the queues can stretch down Victoria Road at the weekend! The spot does focaccia sandwiches and the like but c'mon…. Sometimes a decadent bun of sugary goodness as your lunch is what we all need.
Our pick The biggest, stickiest cinnamon bun you have ever seen for £3.30
Continental Deli – 503 Victoria Road
Located right next door to Short Long Black is Continental Deli. It has a brilliant timeless feel and does amazing sandwiches and breakfast rolls.
Our pick Get a New Yorker will all the toppings for £4.50
Pakistani Street Food – 412 Victoria Road
Rated top on many takeaway apps, nothing beats going into this little gem, decorated in the Pakistani truck style, to chat with the guys there as they prepare warm stuffed, messy-to-eat parathas.
Our pick Make sure to get a napkin with an aloo (potato) paratha for £5
Veg and Vegan Café – 527 Victoria Road
This family-run place lives up to its name — a little café just near the park entrance selling a medley of South Asian veggie and vegan delights to sit in or take away.
Our pick Recapture that taste of summer with their samosa chaat for £5
Bees Knees Cafe – Bowman Street
The cafe with the warmest welcome in the Southside is conveniently located just across the street from our newsroom, so you may run into one of the Greater Govanhill team on the coffee run
Our pick one of their sweet or savoury crepes from £7 will warm you through the winter months