Bacco Italia

This review appears in the The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 – in the shops now or buy online.

Anyone wondering why Italian restaurants have such a special place in the hearts of Scots in general and Glaswegians in particular should visit Bacco Italia. The designer décor and concept of this 'style wine bar/restaurant' illustrate the intentions of brothers Peppe (owner/chef) and Luca (wine expert) Staiano, to mix the well-loved and traditional with the new and creative. The exclusively Italian wine list is studied, impressive, bold and unique in that each of its 40-plus bottles can be served by the glass. The combination of rocket and fennel with orange pieces could raise an eyebrow in the brothers' hometown of Sorrento, but it works. Another starter, this time from the à la carte menu, is piatto mare – Sicilian anchovies and Loch Fyne salmon on a bed of salad leaves. This splendid dish demonstrates the claim that as many ingredients as possible are sourced locally, while the best of Italian produce is also bought in. Finally, the smoked chicken breast with a cream, lemon, garlic and parmesan sauce – pollo alla Sorrentina – truly conjures up images of southern Italian citrus groves in summer. Expect surprising innovations both on the menu and elsewhere, such as champagne brunches, ladies' nights and live music.

• High point: Hands-on and heartfelt
• Low point: No branches (yet!) in the city centre

The LIST Card A29

Bacco Italia

The following information has been provided by the restaurant.

Close to Shawlands Cross, BACCO is a stunning Italian style wine bar and restaurant. At BACCO we strive to recreate the very best in modern Italian restaurant food, with a large degree of influence from the Chef/Owner's home town of Sorrento in the South of Italy.

A relaxing, sunny interior creates a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere which gradually evolves as the day progresses. Early risers can start the day with BACCO's own roast coffee and Italian breakfast menu, and ladies who lunch can catch up over some Insalata Caprese whilst business types in a hurry, can still have pasta on the run from our Business Lunch menu. As the lights go down evening diners can enjoy great service and superb Italian food with our changing 'Daily Specials'; those out simply for a drink can unwind with a cocktail or glass of wine in our chic Wine Bar area.

We pride ourselves on having the largest and most innovative Italian wine list in Scotland. We source our wines from a variety of regional producers known for their award winning wines. And great news! Each and every one of our 50 odd wines is available by the glass. So, enjoy a glass of wine, cocktail or a beer with friends in a grown up , sophisticated atmosphere.

Our wine bar area is Open 7 days till 11.30pm and midnight Fridays and Saturdays.

Promoting contemporary Italian food and wine is BACCO Italia's mission. Join our Food and Wine Club. Enjoy our unusual programme of wine pairing events, regional food speciality nights, Ladies' Nights, live music and much more. Book via our website and benefit from our special promotional offers.

The LIST Card is a dining scheme that gives you promotional two-for-one offers at a range of restaurants in Glasgow, Edinburgh and beyond. Find out more.