Glasgow is known for its cafe culture, with new places popping up all the time – but there’s one that really stands out
The shop hasn’t even been open a year, but it has been immensely popular with locals and visitors(Image: Nicola Roy)
Sunday has always been my favourite day of the week – the ideal opportunity for my beloved ritual of wandering about with a coffee in hand. Whilst it might not qualify as a proper hobby, it brings me a lot of joy, so I try to do it as often as I can.
Over the years, I’ve tried countless coffee shops across the city of Glasgow. So I was delighted when one of my regular haunts was recently crowned amongst the finest in the UK.
Zennor, situated on Langside Road in Glasgow’s south side, has been open for less than a year, but weekend queues regularly snake out the door as customers flock to try its distinctive menu.
Last week saw the publication of the Best Coffee Shops in the UK ranking – a comprehensive guide showcasing the nation’s top-tier cafés. The list featured 44 locations from across the country, with several Glasgow venues making the cut, including the elaborate Turkish Ottoman coffeehouse and Through The House, which combines its café with a listening bar and magazine shop.
For me, though, Zennor is the clear winner. Following the huge success of its Dennistoun location, this second branch has proven equally popular, and having it on my doorstep has been brilliant – I’ve yet to have a disappointing visit, reports the Express.
The interior is minimalist yet welcoming(Image: Nicola Roy)
This week, I returned for the first time since the ranking was announced, and it’s easy to see why it’s earned its place amongst the UK’s must-visit coffee destinations. The interior immediately captures your attention.
It’s a striking blend of Scandinavian-inspired design, featuring pale wooden furnishings and gleaming chrome accents, bathed in abundant natural sunlight when the weather is good.
The space could feel clinical were it not for carefully considered touches like the oversized paper lampshades hung low above the tables. There are a few seating options – choose from perches along the window ledge, stools at the coffee bar, larger circular tables, or the outdoor area when the Scottish weather cooperates.
Zennor is located on the corner of Dixon Avenue and Langside Road(Image: Nicola Roy)
Zennor is busy no matter what day or time you go – a clear indication of its popularity amongst locals. On my visit with my mum and aunt – both first-timers – we were fortunate to secure a table, and I was keen to hear what they thought.
Whilst the coffee menu covers all the classics, from flat whites to cappuccinos, what sets them apart is their great selection of inventive beverages you won’t find elsewhere. Last year’s standouts included the iced tiramisu cold foam and iced peach matcha, and I’m already looking forward to their spring offerings.
Given the bitter cold, we opted for an oat flat white, a latte and a long black. Zennor roasts their own beans, available for purchase, and the distinctive flavour profiles are genuinely unlike anything I’d previously encountered.
Expect flavours of candied peach, white chocolate, toffee apple and jasmine – each box offers something distinctive and delicious.
If I had the right coffee machine at home, I would be all over these(Image: Nicola Roy)
Zennor might feel like the kind of place with an intimidating vibe at first glance, but nothing could be further from the truth – the team are incredibly welcoming and friendly, and their genuine enthusiasm for their craft is evident in everything they do.
Watching the baristas work their magic at the sleek chrome coffee bar is captivating, and thankfully, every beverage lives up to the hype. They offer a range of these single-origin roasts, alongside loose-leaf tea and much more.
However, it’s not just the coffee and matcha that draws me back to Zennor time and time again. The pastries and treats are exceptional, far surpassing typical coffee shop standards.
The pastries and sweet treats at Zennor are second to none(Image: Nicola Roy)
During my most recent visit, we shared a miso date caramel cookie, generously scattered with sesame seeds and boasting a wonderfully soft and chewy centre. There’s also the delicious cheese and herb croissant which was toasted to perfection, but the brown butter and salted dark chocolate cookie – I’m drooling just thinking about it.
They also serve a gorgeous Basque cheesecake and banana bread, with the menu changing frequently, ensuring there’s always an opportunity to sample something new.
My frequent trips are proving costly, but I’ve got three words to describe Zennor – worth every penny. Glasgow’s south side has earned a reputation for its thriving café culture, which was a major factor in my decision to settle in the area.
If you’re local and haven’t yet experienced Zennor, now’s the perfect opportunity to pay a visit.
The venue offers a fresh, welcoming atmosphere that’s ideal for meeting friends and family, or simply picking up a coffee and pastry whilst exploring the nearby Queen’s Park.