New Year, New Favourites

Lebowski's, Glasgow

"Not just a man, a way of life," reads the embossed mantra across the door. The eminently quotable stoner flick The Big Lebowski has inspired spin-off books, festivals and now a café bar in rapidly regenerating Finneston. Boasting thematically appropriate mellow décor, a White Russian tasting menu (how many variants on cream, kahlua and vodka can there be?), sarsaparilla (possibly) and marmot burgers (sadly not), we're sure the Dude himself would be happy to abide here. What with a Fargo bar opening in Liverpool recently, there's a brisk trip through a woodchipper on offer to the first person who spots a Barton Fink panini shop.

Lebowskis, Argyle Street (Finneston), Glasgow
www.lebowskis.co.uk

Fruitworx Juice Bar, Edinburgh

Whilst most 18-year-olds blithely live for days on chips and Bru, Michael Millar saw his lunchtime vitamin cravings as a perfect business opportunity. Setting up Juiceworx next to his former school, the young entrepreneur is adamant that his venture is "not just another juice bar" and there's an undeniable integrity running throughout the business. They are one of the few juicebars to use Acai berries (the latest superfood), their packaging is 99% biodegradable, they aim to make healthy alternatives appealing to kids and the community and they work closely with other young independent suppliers such as Stoats porridge.

Fruitworx Juice Bar, Marchmont Crescent, Edinburgh
www.fruitworxjuicebars.co.uk

The Italian Caffe, Glasgow

Just what the Merchant City was crying out for, this enoteca with cosy warm olive-green booths and striking 70s light fittings is perfect for a spot of winter grazing. With most of its Italy-centric winelist available by the glass (including Cava) and a tasting menu of small plates, mini pizzas plus a few substantial al forno pasta dishes to up your festive carb count, lazy afternoons and long evenings are the order of the day. Menu highlights include a melting Ossobucco, served with marrowbone still in, fat, lemony sardines and a mound of chargrilled veggies topped off with a snowball of mozzarella

The Italian Caffe, Albion Street, Glasgow