Gospoda

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A relative newcomer to Glasgow’s increasingly cosmopolitan dining scene, Gospoda is something of a hidden gem among the takeaways and boarded up shopfronts of this part of Calton in the East end. That it is only a few minutes walk from the Merchant City, Glasgow Green and the famous Barras market should ensure that it will not remain hidden for much longer. For Glasgow’s Polish community it is already well established on the culinary map, and the quality of the cooking, friendly service and simple elegance of the dining area explain its popularity. Starters consist of a range of generously portioned soups, including a Hungarian beef and pepper variety and a wonderfully sweet and warming Ukranian concoction of beetroot, garlic, beans and cabbage. Main courses are similarly large in size, and vary from Hungarian pancakes stuffed with beef and sour cream to traditional Polish favourites such as golabki (cabbage rolls stuffed full of pork and herbs and covered in a rich tomato source), pierogi (meat, cheese or vegetable dumplings) and bigos (a lightly spiced sausage, bacon and sauerkraut stew). Sweet pastries, including poppy seed cake, are baked on the premises. Those not taking advantage of the free of charge BYOB policy might opt for the popular stewed fruit cordial.

• High point: Tremendous value for money
• Low point: Soups don’t leave much room for main courses!

1. Ma, Glasgow – 5 November 2009, 1:39pmGospodaReport

The decor is very modest and unimpressive, but the food was actually really good. We've tried various kinds of pierogi (most people's favourite Polish dish) and they were all really good. Golabki (stuffed cabage) were also very good. It's nothing fancy, but tastes great. Hearty and tasty.

The portions are huge... you'll want a nap after your meal.