University Cafe

87 Byres Rd, Glasgow G11 5HN, UK

Glasgow

Open

+44 141 339 5217

Cuisines

Italian British American (traditional)

Influencer Reviews1

JOURNEYS

7/4/2025

View Profile

About

The University Cafe in Glasgow has been serving the community for over 100 years. Founded and still run by the Varecchia family, it is renowned for its Italian ice cream and classic desserts. The cafe has become a local institution, blending Italian heritage with British culinary traditions across four generations.

The Visit

The visit to University Cafe highlights its enduring charm and the legacy of Italian ice cream in Glasgow. The reviewer is captivated by the knickerbocker glory, describing it as a show-stopping dessert that fuses American origins with Italian craftsmanship and British tradition. The atmosphere is nostalgic, and the experience is a celebration of multicultural influences that define Glasgow’s food scene.

What They Ate

Knickerbocker glory made with Italian ice cream

Quotes

"Before I leave Glasgow, I've time for one more treat. The University Cafe is over 100 years old and serves a show-stopping knickerbocker glory."

"It's made here with Italian ice cream, but it's a dessert many would regard as a British classic."

"For over 100 years, four generations of the Varecchia family have been producing Italian ice creams just like this."

"Oh, yum! Knickerbocker, I love you."

Our Reflection

There’s a sense of reverence as the reviewer steps into the University Cafe, a place where time seems to slow and tradition takes center stage. The knickerbocker glory, layered with Italian ice cream, is more than a dessert—it’s a testament to Glasgow’s multicultural embrace and the Varecchia family’s dedication. Each spoonful carries the weight of history and the joy of discovery. The reviewer’s delight is palpable, making it clear that some classics endure for good reason.

This review includes brief, attributed excerpts of copyrighted material used for the purposes of commentary, criticism, and education. Such use is permitted under Section 107 of the U.S. Copyright Act. All rights to the original works remain with their respective creators and copyright holders. Our intent is to highlight, celebrate, and help audiences discover these creators by directing attention to their original content.

Explore Related Content

Explore more in Glasgow More ice cream in Glasgow More italian spots in Glasgow More places featured by JOURNEYS

Google Reviews

0.0

(0 reviews)

Recent Reviews in Glasgow

Discover more restaurant recommendations in Glasgow

Parveen's

Glasgow

PakistaniFusion / contemporary

JOURNEYS

"Parveen's delivers a fresh, plant-based approach to Pakistani cuisine, set in the revitalized Civic House near Spears Wharf. The reviewer is impressed by the creativity and warmth of the sisters who run it, noting the blend of heritage and local influences. The food is described as healthy, flavorful, and comforting, with a focus on coconut-based curries and inventive sides. The space itself feels inviting, making it a standout in Glasgow’s diverse food scene."

4.8

Bare Bones Chocolate Ltd

Glasgow

American (traditional)

JOURNEYS

"Bare Bones Chocolate offers a unique, hands-on chocolate-making experience in Glasgow’s Merchant City. The reviewer is guided through the entire process, from sourcing beans to roasting, grinding, and tempering. The chocolate’s complexity and flavor are repeatedly praised, with special attention given to the differences between beans from the Philippines and Madagascar. The supportive local business environment and the founders’ passion for their craft are highlighted throughout the visit."

4.7

Big Counter

Glasgow

BritishFusion / contemporary

JOURNEYS

"Big Counter offers a warm, welcoming environment that immediately makes guests feel at home. The reviewer highlights the restaurant's unique charm, shaped by the dedication of its owners, John and Claire. Dishes are described as comfort food with European twists, crafted from the best Scottish produce. The experience is deeply personal, reminiscent of the early days of running a family restaurant, and leaves a strong impression of genuine care and enthusiasm."

4.7

Gomo Kimchi

Glasgow

Fusion / contemporaryKorean

JOURNEYS

"Gomo Kimchi offers a glimpse into Glasgow's diverse food scene, with Eddie serving up his family recipe kimchi fried rice. The reviewer is introduced to the shop by food author Ben Mervis, who highlights Govan Hill's multicultural roots. Eddie's warm welcome and the fusion of Korean tradition with American influences make the experience memorable, showcasing the city's openness to global flavors and culinary innovation."

4.6

Eusebi Deli

Glasgow

Italian

JOURNEYS

"Eusebi Deli stands as a testament to the Italian community's enduring influence on Glasgow's food culture. The reviewer highlights the warmth and generosity of the Eusebi family, noting how their deli has become a gathering place for locals seeking authentic Italian flavors. The experience is described as welcoming and heartfelt, with the meal marking the reviewer's first in Glasgow and leaving a strong impression of hospitality and tradition."

4.6

Minted Ice Cream

Glasgow

Travel For Phoebe

"The reviewer stopped at Minted Ice Cream for a well-deserved sweet treat during a busy day exploring Glasgow. The shop stood out for its generous free samples and inventive flavors, making the experience both fun and satisfying. The '99' flavor, featuring vanilla ice cream with raspberry swirl and flake, was a highlight, described as perfectly sweet and delicious. The visit added a playful, indulgent moment to the day’s adventures."