I ken Glasgow well, and I’ve seen a fair few changes on its streets over the years. But sometimes I just scratch my head, wondering what’s next. News of two new American-inspired food spots opening in Buchanan Galleries, Philly Express and American Dirty Soda, has me thinking about what we Scots truly value when it comes to a bite to eat.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m all for variety, aye. I appreciate a good meal, no matter where its inspiration comes from. But when I hear about cheesesteaks, Texas toast, and custom ‘dirty’ sodas arriving in a prime city centre spot, a wee part of me sighs. It’s not that I begrudge anyone a taste of the States, but I do wonder if it’s what Glasgow really needs or wants.
Gloria Agha, the manager at Philly Express, sounds rightly chuffed about it all. She said: “Buchanan Galleries is a standout city-centre location, and we’re excited to bring our legendary Philly Cheesesteaks and our fresh hand-battered buttermilk fried chicken to visitors.” She also mentioned it’s for “anyone craving big flavours with fast, convenient service.” Fast and convenient, aye, I hear that often enough. But are big flavours always the best flavours, especially when Scotland has such a larder of its own?
Kathy Murdoch, the centre director at Buchanan Galleries, echoed that sentiment, saying: “We’re excited to welcome Philly Express and American Dirty Soda to our lineup, bringing their bold, flavour-packed menus to our visitors.” She also mentioned their “iconic American-inspired menu” would be “a great addition for those looking for a quick lunch break, a post-shopping refuel or a well-earned treat.” Iconic, she says. I suppose a Philly Cheesesteak is iconic in Philadelphia, but in Glasgow? I’m not so sure.
It just makes me wonder about our own food identity. We’ve got a fantastic culinary scene here, one that’s been evolving beautifully beyond the old stereotypes of haggis and deep-fried Mars bars. I’ve seen Scotland’s food renaissance flourish, with chefs using incredible local produce to create dishes that are truly world-class. My nation’s pie prowess alone is something to be proud of, a testament to simple, honest, delicious food.
Glasgow, in particular, is a city bursting with independent cafes, bakeries, and restaurants that celebrate local ingredients and new cooking. I’ve seen new food outlets open, like the Professor Green fast food outlet, and I always hope they bring something unique to the table, not just a carbon copy of something from across the pond.
When I think about a post-shopping treat, my mind goes to a proper Scottish scone with jam and cream, or maybe a freshly made sandwich with ingredients from a local deli. Not a ‘dirty soda’ with flavour add-ins and creamy finishes. I worry that these kinds of offerings, while convenient, don’t always align with the growing awareness of healthy eating and sustainable food choices that I see many Scots embracing. I believe we should be supporting businesses that contribute to a healthy, vibrant food scene. You can find out more about healthy eating guidelines from Food Standards Scotland, for example.
I understand the draw of something new and different, especially in a busy shopping centre. But I also believe there’s a risk of our high streets becoming homogenised, losing their unique Scottish flavour in favour of generic global chains. My hope is that while these new American spots might attract a crowd, they won’t overshadow the fantastic, authentic food experiences that Glasgow, and Scotland as a whole, has to offer.
Ultimately, it’s about choice, aye. But I just wish the choices reflected more of what makes Scotland, and Glasgow, so special. I think we deserve more than just ‘fast and convenient’ if it means missing out on the braw, honest grub that’s right on our doorstep.
Source: Herald Scotland
