Cucina Verde - Pizza and Pasta at Kirkhouse Inn

Taste Italy’s Heart at Cucina Verde – Kirkhouse Inn’s Italian Gem

If you stroll into the Kirkhouse Inn in Strathblane any evening between 4 pm and 9 pm, the warm aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and slow-simmering sauces tells you you’ve reached somewhere special. That’s Cucina Verde – an inviting Italian restaurant that’s earned a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.

A separate space within the Kirkhouse Inn, Circina Verde has quickly become a destination in its own right. Families, friends and couples gather here for evenings filled with laughter, conversation, and the unmistakable comfort of food made with passion. Every dish is prepared fresh, every sauce stirred with care, and every pizza baked to perfection.

Simple Ingredients, Authentic Flavours

The philosophy is simple: let the ingredients speak for themselves. Circina Verde’s chefs focus on quality and authenticity rather than unnecessary embellishment. Think silky pasta tossed with fragrant pesto, paper-thin pizza bases layered with San Marzano tomatoes, and indulgent desserts that make you linger just a little longer over coffee.

The menu is perfectly balanced between traditional favourites and modern touches—a celebration of Italian comfort food that’s both approachable and irresistible.

Pasta Perfection

It’s hard to resist starting with pasta, the heart and soul of Italian cooking. The Beef Ragu brings the comforting depth of slow-cooked meat to wide ribbons of pappardelle, coated in a rich sauce and finished with freshly shaved Parmesan. It’s a dish that feels both rustic and refined – a warming bowl that invites conversation and contentment.

For something lighter, Linguine Pesto bursts with freshness. Peppery rocket, toasted pine nuts, and a generous sprinkling of Grano Padano complement the herbaceous pesto. It’s a bowl of green vitality that captures the sunny spirit of Liguria.

Fans of a little heat will gravitate toward the Rigatoni Arrabbiata, where a spicy tomato sauce comes alive with olives and a hint of garlic. It’s the perfect choice for anyone who loves a little fire in their food.

Those with a taste for something truly comforting should try the Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Salsa Verde – pillowy dumplings that melt in your mouth, balanced by the zesty green notes of salsa verde. And seafood lovers will adore Spaghetti ai Gamberi, where king prawns, chilli, and parsley bring together the flavours of the Mediterranean coast in every bite.

Each pasta dish at Cucina Verde tells its own story – of tradition, family kitchens, and the joy of sharing good food around the table.

The Art of Pizza

At Circina Verde, pizza isn’t fast food – it’s an art form. The dough is prepared daily, allowed to rise slowly for lightness and flavour, and then baked in high-temperature ovens for that perfect golden crust. The toppings are classic, colourful, and full of character.

Start with the Margherita, a pure expression of simplicity – mozzarella, tomato sugo, basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest things are the best.

The Roasted Pepper pizza adds a vegetarian twist, with spinach, ricotta, and roasted peppers blending into a creamy, smoky harmony. The Goat’s Cheese and Red Onion combination delivers gentle sweetness and tang, a favourite for anyone who loves contrast in every bite.

For something heartier, the Salami pizza brings a savoury depth and a subtle spice, while the Parma Ham and Rocket topping adds sophistication – salty ham, peppery greens, and the freshness of basil to complete the picture.

Whichever you choose, every pizza is crisp, generous, and full of character – perfect for sharing with the family or enjoying alongside a glass of Italian wine.

Sides Worth Sharing

The sides at Cucina Verde make excellent companions to both pizza and pasta. The Panzanella salad brings together chunks of rustic bread, tomatoes, and olive oil for a burst of Tuscan freshness. The Burrata with Heirloom Tomato is a soft, creamy indulgence on a plate – perfect with a touch of sea salt and cracked pepper.

For a little something to nibble while you wait for your main, try the Mixed Olives or a plate of Parma Ham. Freshly baked Sourdough Bread with Olive Oil offers the satisfying chew and aroma that only warm bread can. And for garlic lovers, the Focaccia with Aioli and Parmesan is a must-order – golden, fragrant, and deliciously moreish.

Each side dish has its place at the table, designed for sharing, sampling, and pairing with your main course.

Sweet Finishes

No Italian meal feels complete without dessert, and Circina Verde’s sweet menu offers comfort and indulgence in equal measure. The Affogato – silky vanilla ice cream “drowned” in hot espresso – strikes the perfect balance of hot and cold, bitter and sweet. The Vanilla Cheesecake is smooth and rich, while the Double Chocolate Brownie Sundae is pure nostalgia – layers of ice cream, chocolate sauce, and soft brownie pieces.

For a simple treat, there’s classic Ice Cream, creamy and satisfying, ideal after a hearty meal. Every dessert feels crafted to bring your evening to a gentle, happy close.

A Place for Everyone

What makes Circina Verde special isn’t just the food – it’s the atmosphere. Families come together after school or work to share a pizza and stories about their day. Couples enjoy relaxed dinners over pasta and wine. Friends gather to celebrate birthdays or just to enjoy great food without fuss.

The restaurant’s décor mirrors the menu – warm, welcoming, and full of character. Soft lighting, rustic touches, and a casual elegance make it a space where everyone feels comfortable. Whether you’re visiting after exploring the nearby countryside or stopping in from Glasgow for dinner, Cucina Verde offers a slice of Italy right at the foot of the Campsie Fells.

Passion on a Plate

Every detail – from the slow-cooked ragu to the freshly torn basil – shows the passion behind the menu. Circina Verde isn’t about trends or gimmicks; it’s about cooking with honesty, generosity, and love. The team believes in creating food that brings people together, served with a smile and a sense of pride.

It’s this spirit that makes Cucina Verde more than just another restaurant. It’s a meeting place, a family favourite, and a local treasure at the heart of the Kirkhouse Inn.

Visit Circina Verde

Open daily from 4 pm to 9 pm, Cucina Verde invites you to experience authentic Italian dining in the relaxed surroundings of Strathblane’s beloved Kirkhouse Inn. Whether you’re craving pasta, pizza, or simply a dessert and coffee, you’ll find something that feels just right.

So next time you’re planning dinner, skip the takeaway and enjoy the real taste of Italy at Cucina Verde – where every meal is made with passion, every dish tells a story, and every guest leaves with a smile.