Gilmour’s Wine Bar dinner review by Suzanne Oswald

Suzanne Oswald visits Gilmour’s Wine Bar, an exciting new venue that is intent on making a lasting impression

There’s no denying that in the last couple of years Renfrewshire has become a stronghold for great eateries, with many bars, restaurants and cafés cropping up and making their mark on their various local communities. 

The latest arrival in Paisley is Gilmour’s Wine Bar, a sophisticated new bar and restaurant situated on Old Sneddon Street. After garnering a great deal of attention online with their preview photos on social media, the latest project of Gemma and Gary McCaw got off to a flying start earlier this month with a fully booked opening weekend in which every seat was filled. 

The pair have big ambitions for the venue – telling us that their aim is to turn the bar and restaurant into a regular spot for locals where they can enjoy a drink or a high-quality meal, but also a destination venue for those who may be just a train ride away, or are less inclined to travel into the city for a night out.

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Following our first visit, it’s evident that Gilmour’s has all the potential to achieve those objectives and more. Situated in the unit formerly known as The Sneddon, Juniper, Rebecca’s and everything in between, it’s clear that no expense has been spared in transforming the space into the modern, inviting restaurant it is now.

The dining area exudes elegance, adorned in gold and emerald green with plush booths and leather seats, while there’s also two tastefully decorated mezzanine areas and a separate function suite upstairs. Not to mention the impressive outdoor decking for those who prefer drinking or dining al fresco, should the temperature permit it. 

Afternoon tea at Gilmour’s Wine Bar

So, after a successful launch weekend in which the place was packed to the rafters, we arrived to test out the new menu and see if this latest addition to Paisley’s ever-evolving food scene had staying power. 

Following a warm welcome from staff, who were already preparing for another busy week ahead, we scoured over the wide selection of gastropub classics and refined plates – with everything from burgers and steaks to sea bass and pasta dishes up for grabs.

It’s clear that, just like the interiors, a lot of time and attention to detail has gone into the menu – from the carefully curated wine selection to the wide assortment of ingredients on show. There truly is something for everyone. 

Upstairs Bar at Gilmour’s, photo ©Mill Magazine

On this occasion, I couldn’t see past the calamari. The crispy, salty batter proved the perfect foil to the tender fish inside, while lashings of lemony mayonnaise added a nice sharpness to each bite. Gianluca opted for the goat’s cheese salad – the breaded, salty cheese was served on a generous bed of leaves with a pot of sweet, sticky, honey dressing. 

As for the main course, with so many options vying for my attention, I eventually settled on the red Thai curry noodles with grilled chicken, full of fresh vegetables and a moreish, creamy curry sauce.

Meanwhile, with various vegetarian options to choose from, Gianluca opted for the classic cauliflower steak which came with a generous portion of mushrooms, tomato, chips and a delicate basil oil. Like the noodles, it was dutifully polished off. 

We closed this indulgent feast with a portion of chocolate brownie to share, which was nothing short of a sweet, rich, gooey triumph – heated up and served with a velvety ganache and ice cream. 

Such is the length and depth of its menu, and accompanying drinks offering, you get the impression that you could have something different every night in Gilmour’s and still leave satisfied.

And with plenty of deals available (set menus, as well as their Wednesday steak night and Sunday roast offering), it provides great value for money. A welcome addition to the area, it has all the signs of becoming a local favourite.

Gilmour’s Wine Bar, 24-30 Old Sneddon Street, Paisley, PA3 2HL, 0 141 473 8530, to make a reservation, buy vouchers or book for a function, visit the website.