GLASGOW - When I arrived at the airport in this handsome Scottish city with the industrial past, I’m greeted by a kilted man named Colin, who whisks me into a classy black taxi and we head for the historic Merchant City District.

Colin is filled with lots of Glaswegian anecdotes and happily shares with me the best places to indulge in a good ole Scottish breakfast, with the best haggis to accompany it, and of course the places to go for a “wee dram or two of Whiskey.”

We drive past buildings raw in their authenticity, each one etched in a golden hue from their old terracotta foundations.

Referred to as “Old Glasgow”, Merchant City evokes a sense of a bygone era. You can imagine the successful tobacco lords and 17th century merchants strolling the cobblestone streets that still abound here in distinguished suits and top hats. Merchant City was once a place of vast wealth with a thriving economy for decades. The commanding historic clock tower still stands proudly on Trongate, one of Glasgow’s oldest streets.

Scotland's larder is a diversified mix of yummy goodness, seafood being just one of them. Gandolfi Fish, located in what once was the city’s old cheese market, is a staple go-to spot in Merchant City. Say the name to any local and you will be met with excitement for good reason. The restaurant consists of three spots: Cafe Gandolfi, Bar Gandolfi and Gandolfi Fish - it is here that the fish and chip treasure lies. Gandolfi’s homemade tartar is a superb addition to dip the flaky beer battered fresh haddock in, and the wedge of lemon compliments it perfectly. Dine in or take away; both are equally delicious.

What better way to wash down an order of fish and chips than with a local beer? Drygate is an experiential brewery that opened in 2014. It’s named after one of the first streets in Glasgow, and is a short saunter from Merchant City.

Drygate may be new, but it's adjacent to historic Tennents brewery, which has been brewing beer in Glasgow since the 16th century - it has teamed up with Drygate on a joint venture, so no fretting about competition here. The brewery is comprised of a fabulous restaurant - The Vintage. Walking into the funky space with its eclectic design aesthetic is a real treat for the senses. The smell that permeates through the air is a mix of malt barley and hops, luring you to start drinking beer ASAP.

Here I sample beers like Glad Eye Indian Pale Ale, with its hints of caramel and great bottle logo inspired by a Cyclops. Drygate also lows visitors to create their own beer recipe as part of the unique experience.

Left: Gandolfi Fish restaurant. Right: Stained glass at Rogano.

Established in 1935, the Rogano is Glasgow's longest standing restaurant. Locals, visitors and even famous musicians love it - Rod Stewart covets table 16 when he’s in town. The ambiance at the Rogano is like stepping into a film noir. You almost expect Bogart to be lingering at the original art deco bar, sipping Scotch. Cunard’s “Queen Mary” liner inspired the decor. Even the carpet in the Rogano was duplicated from the Queen Mary. The Rogano is known for its seafood and the divine oyster bar that's open every day. Fresh Cumbrae oysters from West Kilbride tantalize the palette when paired with a glass of champagne. The Rogano is the kind of place they just don't make anymore, and that makes it all the more enticing.

Above: Established in 1935, the Rogano is Glasgow landmark.

The Scotia Bar is not only Glasgow's oldest pub, it's also on Stockwell Street, one of the four original streets that comprised the city. Built in 1792, it's an esteemed music venue, that at one time was famous for folk music and has since evolved. Billy Connolly spent many a night there playing his banjo with erstwhile band “The Humblebums.” The dark wood veneer and fireplace create an intimacy that's void of pretension, making it a place that locals favour. Don't be surprised to stumble upon a group of affable, yet inebriated Glaswegians singing along to the famous Scottish ballot “Caledonia" while reciting “Now I am sitting here before the fire, an empty room a forest choir.”