Crossword Genius

Returns to find gourmet staring at bottom of glass (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

stem

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'bottom of glass' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe you can see an association between them that I can't see?

'returns to find gourmet staring' is the wordplay.
'returns' says the letters should be written in reverse.
'to find' indicates a hidden word (I've seen 'found' mean this).
'mets' is hidden within 'gourmet staring'.
'mets' backwards is 'STEM'.

'at' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for stem that I've seen before include "'Stalk, shank (4)'" , "Upward part of a plant" , "Vertical part of flower or drinking glass" , "Slender upright part, of flower or glass" , "Central upright part of flower or drinking glass" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app