The Universal

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The 2011/12 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2011) edition.

Flashier town centre bars may struggle to fill their sofas on an early week evening, but this little bar is buzzing pretty much every night. Hidden away on a side street, it can't attract much walk-up, so what's its secret? On two floors, bare brick walls, old-fashioned paned windows and friendly service generate a warmth lacking in many style bars. Upstairs is a laid-back lounge where they have regular live music; downstairs the hum of chat pervades the bar rather than DJ-tastic beats, as a mixed crowd enjoy bottles of wine with massive plates of excellent pub grub. Dishes are listed in a no-nonsense manner, such as 'mince & tatties' and 'macaroni' with no gushing descriptions. Few will be disappointed. The Cajun chicken is served in smoky and tender strips with a pile of chunky chips. For the ravenous, the beef enchiladas are packed with spicy chilli and cheese, topped with a great big dollop of sour cream. Desserts are indulgent; sticky toffee pudding does the business with a rich treacle taste. A good choice of veggie options and salads means that all are catered for. Maybe the clue to this gem's success is in the name.

1. Jayster, Glasgow – 2 February 2012, 4:01pmThe UniversalReport

The food in Universal is great no denying it. However it is completely ruined by the lazy and rude staff. They are unbelievable and have no idea what customer service is. On one occasion recently when I complained about the amount of time I had been waiting for food (an extremely long time as service is slow) the waitress called me a liar and threatened me, it sounds like a bad joke but it's not, she actually threatened me while the bar manager stood nearby. So yeah food is great but the servers are rude and kinda violent! Avoid!