Chef Modou Diagne has come a long way since 2013 when he arrived in Scotland seeking a new life.
He was homeless and relied on charity in those early months.
But his break came when he found his vocation in the kitchen of Nico Simeone at 111 in Kelvindale.
Dedication
Nico saw huge potential in his hard-working recruit and went on to reward Modou’s dedication in 2020 by gifting him the business.
Five years on, and the Senegal-born restaurateur is set to open his second eatery, TRUST by Modou, at 1132 Argyle St in Finnieston.
The new venture will open its doors in the vibrant Finnieston strip next Wednesday (2 July), inviting diners to join the chef as he embarks on a new chapter in his remarkable journey.
According to the restaurant’s promotional material, TRUST “represents a confident evolution in Modou’s culinary journey — a concept rooted in creativity, spontaneity, and deep connection between kitchen and guest”.
There will be no set menu. Instead, diners will be treated to a dynamic, ever-changing tasting experience shaped entirely by Modou and his team, “celebrating seasonality, bold flavours, and the power of storytelling through food”.
TRUST is about more than just great food — it’s about connection, surprise, and giving people a reason to come back not just for a dish, but for a feeling - Chef Modou
The 5 course menu will be priced at £30pp and built for repeat visits and returning fans.
Chef Modou Diagne said: “This is the restaurant I’ve always dreamed of.
“TRUST is about more than just great food — it’s about connection, surprise, and giving people a reason to come back not just for a dish, but for a feeling.
“I want people to walk through the door, let go of control, and simply enjoy what we’ve cooked and prepared for them in that moment.”
According to its press statement, the West End location offers “an intimate and atmospheric space designed to mirror the concept: warm, elegant, and stripped back to let the experience shine.”
“From the moment guests arrive to their final course, TRUST by Modou will be an invitation to step out of the ordinary — and into something unforgettable.”
111 was originally founded in 2015 by Chef Nico rebranded to ‘111 by Modou’ where Modou has and continues to operate a successful restaurant business.
- TRUST by Modou will open 2 July 2025 at 1132 Argyle St, Finnieston, Glasgow G3 8TD. For reservations check trustbymodou.co.uk
