San V is a Southside Italian restaurant and cocktail bar that promises to ‘transport you to Italy without the hassle of a flight’. Inside the decor is chic and relaxed, with crushed velvet banquette seating, marbled tables and candlelight. Cheffy flourishes and regional specialities mean that you can try out dishes beyond your usual favourites.
At San V you can start your meal the Italian way with an antipasto selection representing the regional tastes of Italy. Alternatively, opt for the seafood selection of deep-fried prawns, scallops and calamari.
All of the pasta is freshly made and, as a unique touch, you can have your carbonara both ways — authentically Italian-style without cream or Scottish-style with it. You will also find all of your tried and trusted classics, such as lasagne, penne arrabbiata and quattro formaggi. As well as this, you can try out lesser-known dishes like the black (squid ink) tagliatelle served with seafood.
The selection of hand-stuffed raviolis includes lobster, roasted veal and truffle & pecorino, while veggie dishes include porcini mushroom risotto and a tipsy penne alla vodka.
From the pizzas you can choose between classic tomato-based choices such as spicy salami, or a range of ‘white’ pizzas without the marinara. Why not tuck into Amalfi-style white pizza with smoked aubergines, chargrilled courgettes, roasted red peppers, artichokes and buffalo mozzarella?
Other menu highlights include Tuscan-style braised lamb shank served with creamed potatoes, or organic farmed Scottish salmon served with charred leeks and saffron cream on a bed of crushed potatoes.
San V is on Ayr Road in Newton Mearns, not far from Crookfur Pavilion. Nearby attractions include Rouken Glen Park, Dams to Darnley Country Park and Greenbank Gardens, a charming Grade A-listed Georgian house.
The nearest train station is Paidmyre Road, about an eight-minute walk away.