One for the archives - the restaurant closed March, 2005

67 Bridge Street, Glasgow G5 9JB. Telephone: 0141-429 1547.

Twice recently I have visited Caf? Serghei and having discovered the joys of this amazing Greek restaurant, just across the River Clyde on the South Side of the City, I'll be returning whenever the opportunity arises. When I first went along it was to meet the Glasgow Group for lunch, these artists and their comrades have made Caf? Serghei a regular haunt for a number of years. I had been assured that the authentic Greek food was good and I was also expecting a pleasant ambiance, however, I was quite unprepared for the grandeur of the surroundings.

The restaurant is quite spectacular, located in what was previously the Tradeston branch of the Savings Bank. The first branch to be opened on the south side of the city in the days of heroic commercial architecture. Many of the original features remain: the walls are richly clad with mahogany panelling; interesting tiles remain intact; there are also columns headed with horns of plenty pouring sovereigns into the impressive banking hall - this forms the main part of Caf? Serghei's interior. Overhead there is a small balcony and a remarkable dome, strangely reminiscent of Greek Byzantine architecture.

It makes a great setting for the loyal clientele, philhellenes and Greeks, who come regularly to enjoy the authentic cuisine and choose from a menu including favourites such as tzatziki, dolmades, souvlaki and baklava. The service is excellent and Dimitri, the manager, has a warm welcome for everyone and waiters bring orders to the table swiftly and with some panache.

Therefore I was already impressed by the restaurant when I paid my second visit on one of their famous Greek party nights. My friend Frances came along with me and we shared a table with Robert Burns, one of the Glasgow Group and Nancy and John, the Greek dancers, who perform at the restaurant. The company was good, the dinner delicious and as the night went on I felt as though I had somehow miraculously closed my eyes in Glasgow and been transported to downtown Athens.

On these party nights, which apparently happen every Friday, the spacious restaurant is full to capacity with a varied clientele including Greek families, young students and people out celebrating birthdays and other special occasions. After dinner you can watch the dancers perform and listen to traditional music but as the night goes on the atmosphere becomes more and more lively with almost everyone joining in the dancing and having a good time. Whether, demonstrating their knowledge of the traditional routines or learning the steps for the first time.

It all makes for an exceptionally enjoyable night out - there is plenty of boisterous, good-natured fun and lots of laughter. A bit like being on your holidays except you don't have that long flight home.

More good news is that prices at Caf? Serghei are very reasonable, there are lots of vegetarian choices and it's conveniently situated near Bridge Street Underground.

Diner Tec Review, Evening Times