The Amazing Fanny Trollope Our Story

Frances and her sister Elizabeth Trollope, better known as Fanny & Betty, left the shores of Rio, Brazil, in the 1920s to escape an arranged marriage to what they described later as “two unspeakable horrors.”

They travelled by sea as stowaways & set sail across the Atlantic for Europe & believed they were heading for Portugal where they would be swept off their feet by tall, dark, handsome men.

As the ship approached shore, they expected to see the romantic palm-tree lined coast near Lisbon—instead, they found Paddy’s Market & men in kilts.

They were shocked to see people selling their wares along the Broomielaw & more shocked at seeing snow falling from the heavens.

The girls decided to settle in Glasgow for a while to save enough money back home. It was not long, however, before the sisters met and befriended two brothers from the Highlands, Hamish and Angus McKay.

They gave the girls their names as they found their original names too difficult to pronounce—similarly, Fanny & Betty could never really understand the brothers who spoke in a very strange tongue.

The girls grew increasingly fond of Glasgow & Fanny ended up working in a café in Finnieston—the Kelvingrove Café—at the corner of Kelvinhaugh and Argyle Street. It was established in 1897 and the old name facia exists to this day.

Fanny became a popular figure in the area—she played the maracas & often danced along the streets of Finnieston with her colourful costumes.

For extra money, Fanny would dance for crowds in the streets—they were eager to learn her bizarre dance routines, so she taught them the Samba & Cha Cha & they, in turn, taught her the Highland Fling & Gay Gordon.

In the end, Fanny and Betty married Hamish & Angus McKay from Skye & it is said that Fanny’s spirit still cruises the streets of Finnieston—her apparition is often seen by punters from the local bars, normally after closing time on Friday & Saturday nights.

Luckily, Fanny’s memory lives on in the form of Fanny Trollope’s café.

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  • robably my favorite dining experience during our visit to Glasgow. The menu was interesting but also simple. Great for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. I think some of the reviews here are out of date. There is a full bar and we had a couple of yummy cocktails. The decor was open and contemporary, though it is a small place. The area is blossoming and very up and coming, though still a bit dingy in areas (but felt very safe). One server took care of the whole place, but he did a great job and (as usual for Glasgow) was very friendly and relaxed. I took a couple of photos which are not great, but give you an idea of the interior.

    Ian Conway Avatar Ian Conway
    September 7, 2019
  • This place has a small but amazing atmosphere, The food was out of this world with a wonderful presentation on a plate.the staff were a delight and made us very welcome this restaurant should have Michelin stars as it ticks all the boxes with it's small but delicious menu catering for those with dietary requirements. I had pan seared scallops and my wife had steak with a salsa verde topping, complimented by fine wine. This is a must go to establishment and I will definitely be back. Thanks to the team for making our experience awesome

    Ian Mitchell Avatar Ian Mitchell
    September 16, 2019
  • What a great little restaurant. Well put together flavours. Smoked warm salmon starter was lovely. The sea bass was great too. Small but decent wine list. Very good value for great quality food. Reservation required. ££

    Jonathan Spence Avatar Jonathan Spence
    October 14, 2019
  • Great food and service. The puddings were particularly amazing

    Ricky Tuke Avatar Ricky Tuke
    October 5, 2019
  • Had an exceptional meal on 31st July. 8 of us all loved it .Some had the the brunch and others the a la carte .Up to its usual high standards .A lovely experience as usual.

    Sandra Grant Avatar Sandra Grant
    August 4, 2020

Contact

1066 Argyle Street
Glasgow
G3 8LY

0141 564 6464

Contact Us

Opening Times

*Times may vary - please book in advance to avoid disappointment*

Monday Closed

Tuesday 5 - 9

Wednesday 5 - 9

Thursday 5 - 9

Friday 12 - 12

Saturday 12 - 12

Sunday 1 - 8.30

Our Location

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