Empire Coffee - Glasgow

Today I wanted to share my experience at Rocco, an Italian man who, paradoxically, embodies the warmth and friendliness of Scotland. Rocco arrived in Glasgow in the mid-90s and decided to open a street food stand next to the cathedral. Despite being a middle-aged man, Rocco has created a bustling coffee shop with the help of his partner. It's rare to see Rocco without a smile on his face. When I visited, he noticed I was feeling cold and kindly offered me a delicious infusion of lemon, ginger, and honey to warm me up. I tried to pay, but he insisted it was on the house. The next day, I felt much better thanks to Rocco's kindness. If I could give Rocco six stars, I would. I've been telling everyone about him. Exceptional!

Today I have decided to write about Rocco, the Italian man who, paradoxically, embodies the kindness of the Scots. Rocco arrived in Glasgow in the mid-90s and, at some point in his life, decided to open a street food stall next to the Cathedral. Today, Rocco, a middle-aged man, has taken over an old police booth and turned it into a café. With two tables in front of the cathedral and organized chaos, Empire Coffee is located in the heart of the university district. Therefore, it is rare to see it open on a Saturday and impossible on a Sunday, but during the week in the mornings it is full. Beyond the picturesque setting, I want to share why I believe I discovered one of the best and most hidden gems of Glasgow here. I arrived at lunchtime, ordered a sandwich (which cost between £3.5 and £4) and a drink (£1). As soon as I arrived, Rocco gave me a banana and an apple. I went to say Thank you, and he said, "You seem to have a cold." Indeed, I was a bit under the weather. Before I could respond with a "It's nothing", he had already put a delicious lemon, ginger, and honey infusion in my hands. I went to pay for the infusion, and his response was: "You're our guest, focus on getting better." The next day, I was cured. I don't know, just a huge thank you, Rocco. If I could give you 6 stars, I would. I have already told everyone I've crossed paths with about you. Exceptional!