Sizzlers Steakhouse and Ocean Grill

Casting about for a spot to have lunch in Glasgow with a former teammate from Uddington, I worried that we might be stuck with either a one-cuisine place (Chinese and Italian seem most common in the city center), a pub, or the American mediocrity of T.G.I.Friday. Fortunately, she suggested checking out Merchant Square, where there were a variety of restaurants in one big old building, including this nice one offering steak and seafood (and pasta).

Better still, they have a £6.95 two-course lunch special, starting at noon, which is quite reasonable given the quality food and ambiance. Even with drinks and the automatic tip, it comes out to perhaps £10 a person, not bad at all. Due to my tight schedule, we were there when the doors opened, and found the service to be fast, friendly and attentive. We opted for a quiet table inside to chat and catch up on the foreign-affairs scene, but there are also "outside" tables in an open area within the large former industrial building.

We both had a starter of ogen melon (like honeydew, but more sought-after) and sorbet, then she opted for penne pasta (spicy, apparently) while I chose fish and chips after briefly agonizing over the other appealing choices (two different steaks, salmon or a hamburger). The portions were generous, and neither of us had room for dessert. Maybe next time. 

I really can't think of anything to complain about - the location is even good, only two or three blocks from the main Queen Street railway station, and not far from Glasgow Central station either. Best of all, they accepted my silly American credit card that doesn't have a chip in it. Since there are four other things on the menu I want to try, I'm sure I'll be back next time I'm in the area.