The Lunch Club

Readers of Scotland’s quality broadsheet newspapers will no doubt be aware that, in their desperation to seduce readers away from the Daily Record, exceptional 2-for-1 lunch deals are on offer at some of Glasgow’s best restaurants.

Working in a pub, I would never actually buy a broadsheet newspaper, having access to a mantelpiece strewn with witty editorials and intelligent debate. This does lead, however, to the pathetic act of cutting out coupons from the paper before returning the shredded remains to the paying punter.

Coupons accumulated, myself and a friend made our way to Sapporo Teppanyaki, the Merchant City’s number one – and only – Japanese-themed Teppanyaki restaurant. In the interest of journalistic integrity, I ought to point out I have visited Sapporo in the past as part of a large birthday party and perhaps the fact that I chose to return tells you all you need to know.

In the Wagamama-esque tradition of un-British, Far Eastern dining, you sit in close with strangers around a thin workbench-like table. In the centre of this bizarre theatre-cum-boxing ring is a huge, black hot-plate. Small glass walls defend my sensitive little fingers from burning, and it becomes clear once the show commences that there would be some serious hot oil issues without it.

The show? A Japanese Teppanyaki chef appears in an impressively tall, brightly-coloured hat, flailing various cooking utensils and generally clowning around with 200°c oil. I don’t want to give too much away – but you will be expected to catch a hot potato fritter in your expectant gob. I should also point out that this restaurant is not suitable for those who suffer from pyrophobia - singed eyebrows are a possibility.

The food is basic but very-well cooked before you. If you are not a fan of your rice, seafood, chicken or beef being doused in masses of oil, freshly cooked food from the kitchen can also be ordered.

Despite dining here not being particularly cheap – without vouchers the two-course express lunch is £9 – Sapporo Teppanyaki is a Japanese lunch with a sense of humour. To get the best value for money, look out for early bird deals and the £5 soup noodle menu is great for Strathclyde students working away at the university just a few minutes away.