'At first glance, my heart sank - but I have to say that, though unlike the pubs of my own youth, the vibrancy, politeness and friendliness of the staff won me over.'
The late 1980s and early '90s saw a flood of American themed fast-food diners and bars open up across the UK - and Glasgow was no different.
Serving American bistro-style cuisine, bar food, and alcoholic beverages, the first New York restaurant featured the same red-and-white striped décor still associated with the brand today. With the popularity of the chain stateside and the growing desire for American style restaurants in the UK, the first TGI Fridays opened in Birmingham in 1986.
Writing to the Daily Record, one elderly Dennistoun man spoke of his 'Friday treat' at the new TGI's and how he had become a convert - well, almost. Job interviews for the restaurant were notoriously thorough and would-be staff were subject to an American-style audition akin to an interrogation. Their ability to juggle cocktail shakers, clear and reset a table in 60-seconds and greet customers with an all-American style smile were all factors as to whether they got the gig.
But before they were allowed near the customers, staff had to pass a strict training course in the art of staying upbeat. There was even a 12-point code of conduct for staff to stick to at all times, which included greeting guests within 30 seconds, as well as ending the evening with a polite "Goodnight" and a sincerely expressed with to come again.
But the restaurant wasn't just for adults looking to indulge their craving for a cocktail or loaded burger; on Saturdays and Sundays there was a Kids' Club. For no charge, mums and dads cold enjoy a stress-free meal as their kids were taken off their hands by staff dressed as astronauts, ducks, clowns, cowgirls, cowboys and cows.
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