Pre-Show Dining: Where to Eat Before a Concert at SSE Hydro

Going to a gig or live show at Glasgow’s iconic OVO Hydro (SSE Hydro) is always an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s a world-famous music act, a comedy night, or a family show, the excitement builds long before the lights go down. But to make the evening truly special, there’s one essential pre-concert plan: dinner.

Choosing the right place to eat before a concert sets the tone for the night. You want somewhere close to the venue, quick enough to fit your schedule, and—most importantly—memorable. At Mister Singh’s India, we’ve perfected the art of pre-show dining in Glasgow, and we’re here to share our insider tips on where and how to dine before a Hydro event.

Why Pre-Show Dining Matters

Dinner isn’t just a pit stop before the music starts—it’s the start of the night out. A well-timed meal can:

Avoid last-minute stress by eliminating the rush to find food near the arena.
Fuel your evening with dishes that satisfy without leaving you too full.
Create memories with friends, family, or your date, turning the gig into a full evening of entertainment.

And because the OVO Hydro draws huge crowds, restaurants around the venue fill up quickly. Booking a table in advance ensures you can relax and focus on the fun.

Mister Singh’s India – A Top Pick for Pre-Show Dining

When it comes to combining convenience, flavour, and atmosphere, Mister Singh’s India is a natural choice.

Central location: We’re only a short taxi ride (or a 15-20 minute walk) from the Hydro, perfectly placed for a relaxed meal before heading to the show.
Award-winning cuisine: Famous for our haggis pakora and authentic Indian flavours, we bring a uniquely Glasgow twist to traditional recipes.
Flexible service: Our experienced team understands concert schedules and can pace your meal so you’ll never miss a curtain call.
Group-friendly options: From couples to larger groups, our tables and private dining room (for 8–20 guests) suit every pre-concert plan.

Tip: Reserve early, especially for Friday or Saturday shows. Pre-show diners often book weeks in advance.

Crafting the Perfect Pre-Show Meal

At Mister Singh’s, we know concertgoers often have tight schedules. Here’s how to make the most of your dinner:

1. Opt for a Set Menu

Our Gold and Platinum group menus (from £45 per person) are designed for sharing and quick service. You can enjoy a variety of starters, mains, and sides without long waits.

2. Share Starters for a Social Vibe

Nothing sets the mood like shared plates. Popular choices include:

Haggis Pakora – a true Scottish-Indian classic.
Chicken Tikka Pakora – perfect with a chilled drink.
Vegetarian Samosas – ideal for mixed groups.

3. Choose Main Dishes Wisely

For pre-show dining, go for dishes that are satisfying yet not too heavy. Our lighter favourites include:

Chicken Tikka Chasni – mildly spiced with a sweet, creamy sauce.
Vegetable Karahi – full of flavour, great with warm naan.
King Prawn Bhoona – a seafood option that feels indulgent but easy to enjoy.

Pair with fluffy basmati rice or a garlic naan for a complete meal.

4. Enjoy a Pre-Gig Drink

Kick off the evening with a signature cocktail or chilled beer. We also offer non-alcoholic mocktails for designated drivers.

Other Great Pre-Show Dining Spots Near the Hydro

While we’d love to welcome every concert-goer ourselves, Glasgow is full of excellent dining options. To help you plan, here are a few popular areas and restaurant types near the Hydro:

Finnieston – The Trendy Hotspot

Finnieston, just a short walk from the arena, is known for its lively bars and modern eateries. You’ll find everything from casual street food to high-end seafood.

City Centre Classics

If you’re coming straight from shopping on Buchanan Street or visiting nearby attractions, Glasgow’s city centre restaurants (including Mister Singh’s India) offer variety and easy transport links.

Quick Bites for Tight Schedules

Need something super-fast? There are numerous cafés and grab-and-go spots near the Hydro. But for those wanting to make dinner part of the night out, a sit-down meal like ours delivers more flavour and atmosphere.

Timing Your Pre-Concert Dinner

A little planning goes a long way. Keep these timing tips in mind:

Check door times. Most concerts open doors around 6:30–7:00 pm with headline acts starting 8:30–9:00 pm.
Book 2–3 hours before showtime. This allows for a relaxed meal and travel to the Hydro.
Let the restaurant know. At Mister Singh’s, we’ll tailor the service pace to your schedule.

Enhance the Night with a Private Dining Experience

For groups celebrating a special occasion—birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate outings—our private dining room provides a VIP touch. Imagine enjoying a custom Indian feast with friends, complete with your own space and attentive service, before heading to a big-name concert.

Our Gold and Platinum packages make group planning simple, while our experienced team handles everything from décor to dietary requirements.

Make It a Full Evening: Post-Show Drinks or Dessert

Why end the night when the music stops? Consider coming back after the show for dessert or a late-night drink. Mister Singh’s location makes it easy to continue the celebration, especially for weekend concerts.

Visitor-Friendly Tips for Out-of-Towners

Coming from Edinburgh, Stirling, or further afield? Combine your concert with a Glasgow food experience:

Easy transport: Trains from Edinburgh and the central belt arrive at Glasgow Central or Queen Street, both a short trip to Mister Singh’s and the Hydro.
Sightseeing: Explore the Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Riverside Museum, or vibrant Merchant City before dinner.
Local flavours: Don’t leave without trying our signature haggis pakora, a true taste of Glasgow-Indian fusion.

Booking Your Pre-Show Dinner at Mister Singh’s India

Make the most of your concert night by securing your table ahead of time. Here’s how:

Reserve online or by phone. Choose your preferred time and mention that you’re heading to the Hydro.
Select your menu. Pick from à la carte or one of our set group packages for faster service.
Share special requests. Let us know about dietary needs, birthdays, or anniversaries so we can add a personal touch.

Book early—big shows can double demand for tables across Glasgow.

Why Mister Singh’s Stands Out for Pre-Show Dining

Proven heritage: Over three decades of serving locals and visitors alike.
Unforgettable dishes: Our fusion of Indian tradition and Scottish favourites is unlike anywhere else.
Perfect location: Easy to reach from the Hydro and other major city attractions.
Customer-first service: From fast-paced pre-show meals to leisurely celebrations, we adapt to you.

Final Thoughts

A concert at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro is always a highlight—but the night can start long before the first note plays. By planning a pre-show dinner, you’ll give yourself and your guests a relaxed, flavour-filled beginning to an unforgettable evening.

At Mister Singh’s India, we combine award-winning Indian cuisine, friendly Glasgow hospitality, and a convenient location to make your pre-concert meal part of the magic. Whether you’re dining as a couple, with friends, or hosting a larger group, we’ll help you create memories before the music even begins.