Repertoire

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August 2009 No 81

SCOTLAND’S BAR, CAFE & RESTAURANT MAGAZINE £1.50

Awards for Top Pubs & Clubs

The Tastiest Cocktails

Merchant City Special

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Located below the magnificently restored church in St Andrew's Square, Café Source offers an informal dining experience for those wanting to sample some big gutsy "real" Scottish fare.

The entrance is located to the side of the church and on entering you will find several large sofas for those simply wanting to enjoy a relaxing drink from the bar.

It is no surprise then that traditional favourites like haggis, stovies, and west coast mussels are on the menu.

However you will also find more contemporary dishes, and soups and specials change on a daily basis.

"Café Source is a truly relaxing place to enjoy a taste of Scotland.”

No. 1 St Andrew’s In The Square, Glasgow G1 5PP. Tel: 0141 548 6020 Fax: 0141 548 6029

www.cafesource.co.uk

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editor’s letter Welcome to our summer issue of Repertoire and this month we have a special focus on Glasgow’s Merchant city. It’s an exciting and vibrant part of Glasgow city life and we find out what makes it's so popular. If you want to drink, shop, eat, club, or be entertained the Merchant City is the place to go.

See our news on all the latest chat, and what to look out for in the area on pages 11 to 14. I also popped down to Byblos for a night with "Body Rox" and certainly Byblos is still, easily one of my favourite latenight hangouts! If you didn't get a chance to pop along to Body Rox, fear not, you can see a full review of the night, and news of upcoming DJ appearances on page 33.

Well we've reached mid-Summer and what a Season it's been so far. Apart from the odd downpour that at times has seen me in my wellies, I can't really complain weather wise. The sunny weather has helped me enjoy some of the festival action so far including the West End Festival back in June, and more recently T in The Park which proved to be another fantastic weekend, see what I got up to on page 9. Been out and about recently? Check out pages 32 and 33 to see if we caught you in our people’s pages.

On another note congratulations to all the award winners at this years Scottish Licensed trade awards, organised by the DRAM, our sister publication. Another great night as always. You can see all the winners on page 18 and 19.

Struggling for fashion inspiration? We've went all nautical this month and picked out some fun stripey outfits on pages 20 & 23. There's something for the boys too! And on the style front you really can't leave home without a statement bag, so I've picked out some of the best styles around town, see our style file on page 30.

On the Drinks front we take a look at some of the best brands behind some fab cocktails including "Show Me the Monkey" and "Monkey Mule". The recipes are also included so if your feeling adventurous order them in your favourite bar, or if your really confident try making them at home! Intrigued? Check out pages 26 and 27. I'm away now to enjoy a Mojito in the sun, happy reading!

Take it easy, Lynn Kelly Editor lynn@mediaworldltd.com

Editor Lynn Kelly Managing Editor Susan Young Advertising Lynn Kelly Kimberley Williamson Iain Livingstone Accounts Tina Hannah Production Doug Heede

Upper Floor, Finnieston House, 1 The Stables Yard, Glasgow G3 6BY. Telephone: 0141 221 6965 Repertoire is published by Media World Ltd. Printed by Scottish County Press Ltd, Bonnyrigg The publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors/omissions. Any transparencies or artwork will be accepted at owner’s risk. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the copyright holder and publisher, application for which should be made to the publisher. Articles published in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. © Media World Limited 2009 ISSN No 1470-2428.

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august 2009

Regulars News Scotland’s Covent Garden We take a look at the Merchant City in Glasgow.

Fashion

6 11 20

Striping out.

Style File

28

Your guide to the most stylish handbags.

People

33

Body Rox at Byblos

Last Word

18

34

Features & People Feature: The 2009 Scottish Licensed Trade Awards

18

Feature: The Tastiest Summer Cocktails

26

Feature: Mix It Up With Rum

29

People: Awards Pictures

32

20

11

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news

VELVET ELVIS There s a new quirky but contemporary bar called Velvet Elvis in Dumbarton Road, Glasgow. The bar, which in a previous life had been a butchers and a furniture shop has many of the original features in tact including the butcher hooks and tiled walls. But says owner affable Allan Mawn, There s no sign of Elvis! The menus are printed onto the back of vinyl LPs and 45s while there s an old-fashioned Jookie for music. Says Allan, A few years ago I was in a bar in Savannah, Georgia called Velvet Elvis and I just liked the sound of the name. He continues, There are a lot of traditional bars in this area, but nothing contemporary. We are offering everything from coffee and a cake, to bar bites from our tapas menu to our simple but classic bar and bistro food.

Look out for the stuffed dog… affectionately called Nick .

It s at 566 Dumbarton Road, Tel: 0141 334 6677.

88 QUEEN STREET RE-OPENS Edinburgh s Eighty Eight Queen Street has just reopened after being closed since October. But jazz enthusiasts may have to wait a bit to longer to see if jazz gigs are reinstated. The new owners say they will reestablish it but only if there is a demand for it. I take it then customers will have to keep asking When is the jazz on?

Leith Lynx Bar and Brasserie opened in Leith in May and it is already proving very popular. It serves up a vast array of dishes from fresh seafood to venison, from burgers to lobster.

Beer lovers won’t be disappointed either as the bar offers a specialist list of Belgian beers. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. It’s at 102 Constitution Street, Edinburgh.

HOTEL FOR THE FASHIONISTAS Edinburgh now has a very chic and fashionable Hotel Missoni on the Royal Mile. It’s the first of a proposed international chain for Missoni, the Italian fashion house famed for bright, colourful knitwear and fabrics.

If you are into minimalist chic this is not the place for you. But if you love zigzags, strips and bold colours you will love it.

As well as an Italian restaurant called ‘Cucina’ it’s got a bar called surprisingly Bar Missoni. So if you are feeling like splashing the cash over the Festival why not try a cocktail in the fashionista’s pad?

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NEW MUSICAL JACKET FOR SMIRNOFF Come Christmas, it’s rumoured that Scotland’s biggest vodka brand, Smirnoff, is to target music fans with an insulating bottle jacket complete with a speaker and an input for iPod playback.

It’s certainly innovative, but perhaps it would have been best if it had launched in the summer … let’s face it, it might go down better on the beach than on the ski-slope! The jacket keeps a 700ml Smirnoff bottle cool, and allows music playback. Mind you, you will have to go to Selfridges to buy it at £34.99.

New Scots Cafe There’s a new Scottish-themed café in Princes Square, Glasgow called Cranachan. The new café not only does lunches and afternoon teas, but breakfast too. And of course there are some great Scottish recipes on the menu, from Clootie dumpling to seafood, from sandwiches to meals and no doubt it does a fine Cranachan too. It’s open from 9am–6pm every day with late night opening on a Thursday to 8pm.

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news

TOP AWARDS FOR SCOTLAND’S BEST PUBS AND CLUBS

The Crabshakk and the Ben Nevis at Finnieston in Glasgow and Boho in Dumbarton Road were just three of the Glasgow winners at this year’s Scottish Licensed Trade Awards.

Edinburgh was represented by the guys behind Hamiltons and Treacle – Martin Luney and Colin Church, who picked up the title Brown Forman Young Entrepreneur of the year. The Rutland won the accolade Morgan’s Spiced Contemporary Bar of the year.

The Crabshakk picked the the DRAM Scottish Licensed Trade Award for Best Design while the Ben Nevis picked up the trophy for Whisky Bar of the year.

Another Finnieston pub Lebowskis picked up a Highly Commended Certificate and bar personality Helen McCone, who works at The Ivy, picked up the Maxxium UK Bar Apprentice Award. Boho picked up Red Bull Coolest Late Night Venue.

The awards, now in their 14th year, celebrate all that’s good and great about the Scottish Licensed Trade. Said organiser Susan Young, “The area that

really stood out was Finnieston. It is Glasgow’s new west end. The quality of the pubs and restaurants in this area stand head and shoulders above many others in the country, as these awards prove.”

Other winners included Portavadie Marina in Loch Fyne, which won the Nautical Bar of the year; John Carrigan of John Carrigan’s Eating House in Hamilton who was Carling Licensee of the year; Carlo Citti, of Campus who won the DRAM Award for Social Responsibility; Montpeliers Edinburgh who picked up the award Heineken Multiple Operator of the year; The Occidental Broughty Ferry which was the McEwan’s Community Pub of the year.

On the food side the Cross Keys in Kippen won the Waverley TBS Gastro Pub of the year, and The Anderson in Montrose picked up the Repertoire award for Best Small Bar. The final accolade went to the Market Arms in Montrose who won the Sunday Mail Pub of the year. Bob Taylor picked up the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Guinness is the UK’s most successful beer brand according to ‘Top 500 Superbrands’ just published. It was the top scoring beer and highest alcoholic drinks brand in the publication with Jack Daniel’s the spirit superbrand. It came furthest up the list of 500 brands, at number 76 with Gordon’s Gin next on the list at 81, Smirnoff vodka at 84 and Glenfiddich at number 126 (the best placed whisky).

Jacob's Creek is the highest placed wine.

The Top 500 brands were selected by a panel of experts and consumers and were chosen according to criteria including quality, reliability and distinction. All in all 35 alcohol brands were included.

Stella Artois, Baileys.

Bacardi, Southern Comfort and Famous Grouse all appeared in the top 200 overall Superbrands.

Among other notable entries in the top 500 were Magners cider at 390 and old favourite Martini at 286.

Microsoft, Rolex and Google occupied the top three places in the overall list, which recognises a Superbrand as one that has "established the finest reputation in its field" and which offers "significant emotional and/or tangible advantages over its competitors which consumers (consciously or subconsciously) want and recognise".

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news

BACARDI MAKES MOJITOS EASY The Mojito, one of the most popular cocktails in Scotland, can now be made simply at home too.

A new product called the Bacardi Mojito Classic has been launched which is a premixed cocktail, available in 750ml bottles, at a price of £13.99, and could be a viable option if you have friends around. Says Nik Krys, of Bacardi Brown-Forman, the company behind the initiative,

“A Mojito can be an intimidating cocktail to make at home and recreating the perfect balance of flavours can be difficult. The Bacardi Mojito Classic will make it easy for consumers to impress their friends at home with all of the theatre of making a mojito and the guarantee of delivering a consistently well mixed, deliciously refreshing and perfectly served Bacardi Mojito, every time.”

However, we at Repertoire prefer a mojito at the bar!

We all know about food and drink matching but The May Fair Bar in London has got a novel approach to cocktails and food. Head mixologists Marios Elias and his 15-strong team have introduced another component to their successful drinks portfolio: Flight cocktails – the latest word in designer drink options to savor.

Conceived by Marios, the 'Flights' are the result of his collaboration with the hotel's chefs to offer a new taste experience to complement each cocktail. Each 'Flight' is served as a trio of taster cocktails, presented in miniature glasses matched with food that compliment the drinks' delicate balance of tastes, offering a trio of tastes to set the palate alight.

So If you are in London over the summer why not try it out, and hopefully some of our cocktail bars might adopt the ‘flight’ option too.

WHITE PROVES A WINNER Wine lovers are turning to white and rose wines according to the latest consumer research. The amount of white and rosé wines drunk has definitely increased over the past three months according to the survey commissioned by the Wine and Spirit Trade Association. White wine is up from 40% to 43% while rosé is up from 16% to 18%.

Pinot Grigio has overtaken Sauvignon Blanc as the second most popular white wine varietal, behind Chardonnay.

And while you may be

thinking ‘well of course people are drinking more white and rose, it is the summer’, the researchers believe the shift in drinking patterns stretches beyond a summer boost for lighter wine styles.

Brian Howard of Wine Intelligence, who carried out the research said, ”Consumers are edging away from some of the more traditional red wines on formal occasions towards lighter wines in casual settings.

We will be monitoring these measures closely to see if future surveys confirm an ongoing trend."

Tao on Bath Street has been given a revamp and a name change. It is now called Maggie Murphy s and is now more of a bar than a restaurant. `There s even a wee dance floor for people who want to strut their stuff.

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The Merchant City Festival takes place at from Thursday 24th to Sunday 27 September 2009. The programme comes out this month and promises theatre, comedy, film, dance, fashion music and much much more. The organisers say there will be opera singers in the courtyards and bars, street theatre, top comedians and music from every genre. So put the dates in your diary or phone and don’t miss out on what should be a very entertaining long weekend.

Visiting Edinburgh for the Festival then you should check out two new bars. Treacle on Broughton Street, is a reasonably newcomer to the west end, and Lebowksis has also opened on Morrison Street on the site of the old Festival Tavern. Both bars offer good food, great service and cocktails too.

Seamus MacInnes of Café Gandolfi could be headed for international stardom now that he has launched ‘Gandolfi to go’ a series of wee videos that show you how to make Gandolfi’s most famous dishes – one of which is Cullen skink. You can see his video on You Tube – it’s been up a month and has more than 380 hits, which is not too bad at all.

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FESTIVAL FUN

internet humour OBJECTS ARE THEY MALE OR FEMALE? • Tyre - male, because it goes bald and often is overinflated.

• Sponges - female, because they are soft and squeezable and retain water.

For me this year's T in The Park was probably my favourite yet. I have been for the last four years, and it is still one of my yearly highlights. I certainly couldn't complain weather wise, and I managed to watch some of my favourite bands including Razorlight, The Streets, Elbow, and Bloc Party in the sun while enjoying a chilled rose wine! Everyone was in good spirits as you can see from the pictures, and the bands in the Ceilidh tent and King Tuts offered a change in atmosphere during the breaks from the main stage performers. I missed the Silent Disco tent this year, which proved a huge hit when I last went however I did venture into the Healthy T village, to chill out, and three years on it seems to be getting more and more popular. The Futures stage wasn't far away so I managed to catch some of the upcoming talent, and was very impressed. For me Healthy T is the only place to eat during the festival, and I tucked into some Stovies, and an organic lamb burger, delicous!! There was even fruit for sale, and a massage tent for complete relaxation. While enjoying food we were able to relax while listening to some chill out tunes from the Dj, and plan our day to see our favourite bands. Everyone I spoke to was enjoying the festival, and I even managed to chat to two T in The Park regulars who have been going for the last 15 years. I will certainly be there in 2010, for another great weekend. Can't Wait!

Lynn Kelly

JOSEF WHO? There is a new drink on the market that may give Jagermeister a run for it’s money and that’s Josef Meier’s. It’s named after one of Austria's original wurzlegrabers or “root harvesters” - Josef Meier’s. The new brand is created from a blend of herbs, roots and spices, and can be drunk either as a mixed drink, or as an ice cold shot!

• Hammer - male, because it hasen't evolved much over the last 5,000 years, but it's handy to have around.

• Kidneys - female, because they always go to the bathroom in pairs.

• Ziplock Bags - male, because they hold everything in, but you can always see right through them.

• Web Page - female, because it is always getting hit on.

• Shoe - male, because it is usually unpolished, with it's tongue hanging out.

• Remote Control - female, because it gives men pleasure, he'd be lost without it, and while he doesn't always know the right buttons to push, he keeps trying.

• Swiss Army Knife - male, because even though it appears useful for a wide variety of work, it spends most of it's time just opening bottles.

• Copier - female, because once turned off, it takes a while to warm up, it is an effective reproduction device when the right buttons are pushed, and because it can wreak havoc when the wrong buttons are pushed.

• Hot Air Balloon - male, because to get it to go anywhere you have to light a fire under it... and of course, there's the hot air part.

• Hourglass - female, because over time the weight shifts to the bottom.

• Subway - male, because it uses the same old lines to pick people up.

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For the Italian Choice Visit

PIAZZA ITALIA Great Italian food that can be enjoyed outdoors in the vast Piazza on John Street or indoors during the colder months.

DISH OF THE MONTH VEAL T-BONE SASSI 14oz of top quality Scottish veal with a lemon and Rosemary sauce, cooked to your choice and served with fresh day vegetables and potatoes. £21.95 To go with our red wine of the month PRIMITIVO DI SALENTO £19.95 A vast range of special dishes available everyday.

Open everyday from 9.30am till 11pm.

Kitchen opens 11.45am till 10pm everyday.

The Italian Centre, John Street, G11HP Tel: 0141 552 4433

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feature

Scotland’s Covent Garden

The Merchant City is one of the buzziest areas of Glasgow.

This month we check out what makes it so special and why it is our very own Covent Garden. Susan Young reports.

I

love the Merchant City. When my boyfriend bought a flat there years ago, we were told it was up and coming. Then we drank in Blackfriars, breakfasted in Café Gandolfi and occasionally visited the beer garden at Babbity Bowsters. If we were going for a more upmarket meal a treat was the City Merchant. And I am delighted to say that a decade on these same bars and restaurants are still there, part of the fabric that is The Merchant City.

In Glasgow there are three key areas – the West End, the City Centre, and the Merchant City (now of course Finnieston is becoming an area in its own right) but it’s the Merchant City that has retained its quirkiness and at the same time developed into a great place to eat and drink and club. From rock n’ roll to jazz, great beer to fabulous cocktails, tasty Italian food to a seafood extravaganza. The Merchant City has it all.

Don’t expect to see mainstream shops but do expect to see quirky boutiques, funky deli’s, cosy cafes and independent hair salons. Everything in fact, the modern city dweller needs, right on their doorstep.

Whether you’re single and looking for love, straight or gay, a fan of clubbing or music lovers, there is a place for you in the Merchant City. And the best thing about this area is that it is neither for young nor old, is has great eclectic mix of all age groups and interesting people.

The Merchant Square hosts a range of activities from art fairs to cocktail competitions. It’s a great space, surrounded on all sides by great places to eat and drink.

One of the most stylish bars in the area is Metropolitan which serves us some of the best cocktails in the city, as well as having a restaurant with a large balcony overlooking the square which allows outdoor dining, undercover.

Bar Square is another lively venue, also with an outside area in Merchant Square. The tempo is always upbeat in the bar, with a more relaxed feel outside. And its beer is always served perfectly chilled.

Beer lovers are in for a treat too with the Beer Café situated in the Square, while Blackfriars has always had a great reputation for the variety and quality of its beer.

Check out its Blackboards for the specials on offer.

If you’re looking to stop off for lunch, or fancy a cuppa head to Coffee Republic, also situated in the Square.

Here you'll find a chilled out atmosphere and a variety of tasty sandwiches, and coffees. They also boast an exclusive Thorntons hot chocolate which is a real treat.

Children are welcome during the day, and the comfy seating area makes a great place to meet up whether for business or with friends.

If it is seafood you are looking for both the City Merchant and Gandolfi Fish do it very well. At both, fish is a speciality – oysters, salmon and lobster. While at the City Merchant prime Scottish meat is a speciality too.

In Merchant Square you'll find Arisaig which returned to the Merchant City in January of this year, after fitting out

Bar Square

the restaurant with a new interior decor. Being situated in the Merchant Square allows for two distinct dining areas, The Brasserie offers a casual dining experience on the ground floor with the menu boasting a vast selection of starters. The Main courses are divided into "The Sea" City Merchant and "The Land", and the extensive wine list offers a great selection of good quality wines by the the glass. If your tipple of choice is Whisky you can enjoy a wee dram here as there are over 150 single malt Scotch Whiskies.

Arisaig Plaice, is the first floor restaurant and features a large balcony area. You may guess from the name that the menu at Arisaig Plaice is predominantly fish and seafood, although Speyside Fillet Steak and Argyll beef do make an appearance. Look out for upcoming events that include Whisky and Wine dinners, the next wine

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Plumb in the centre of the city area of Glasgow is the City Merchant Restaurant. The prime attraction here is Seafood, and with cheerful service the restaurant hums with enjoyment.

Piazza Italia

The à la carte might bring such dishes as cullen skink, Loch Etive mussels, and oysters. The Scottish Seafood Platter is a huge treat, and steaks are sent from Ayrshire with T-bones weighing in at 16oz.

Coffee Republic

97-99 Candleriggs, Glasgow, G1 1NP 0141 553 1577 www.citymerchant.co.uk • citymerchant@btinternet.com

The internationally renowned chefs at Cafe India have over twenty years experience of serving exquisite, beautifully presented dishes made from the finest ingredients.

The menu is mainly Punjabi influenced, and there is an extensive wine list to suit any taste and budget, ranging from the excellent house bottles at £13.50, to the prestigious boutique brands in the low hundreds.

The Merchant Suite seats up to seventy people for private dining, and features Karaoke on Friday and Saturday night.

Cafe India, 29 Albion Street, Merchant City, Glasgow G1 1LH Tel: 0141 552 5115 Fax: 0141 552 9228 info@cafeindiaglasgow.com www.cafeindiaglasgow.com 12

With its stylish location, impeccable reputation, and fabulous food, Café India’s phoenix-like emergence from the ashes looks certain to continue unabated.

events fall on the 5th of August - Call My Bluff Wine Tasting and Dinner for £25 per person, and on the 3rd of September there is a Perrier Jouet Champagne Dinner at £65 per person.

But if you are looking for Italian and Al fresco dining the place to head along to is John Street which has Piazza Italia, which gives you a real flavour of Italy. This family-run restaurant has a great pre-theatre menu from £10.95 and a lunch special two courses for £7.95. The menu has all your Italian favourites from Lasagne to Penne Arrabiata to mussels and calamari. Just next door to Piazza Italia is Ferrier Richardson’s newest venture Tuscan Square, the restaurant which is part of the Baby Grand Group which also owns Blackfriars and Ad-Lib in the Merchant City. It is a fine looking restaurant and offers a less traditional take on fine Italian food.

Another favourite is Esca – which over the years has expanded to include e2, but which still offers great Italian cuisine at reasonable prices too.

The Esca experience is classic Italian, from the romantic candlelit evenings to the lively din in the kitchen as the food is prepared, and mouth-watering dishes made ready. The friendliness of the attentive staff, the relaxed atmosphere… you could be in Tuscany or Sicily, Rome or Milan… or wherever you like to feel at home.

Esca have been serving the Merchant City for over 10 years, can proudly boast to have been amongst the first to present genuine, rustic, regional Italian cuisine. The restaurant has that feel of an intimate dining experience with candles adding to the atmosphere later in the evening, whereas e2 has that look and feel more reminiscent of the classic barista cafés so famous in Rome or Milan. Esca is renowned for its private dining experience, which can accommodate groups from five,

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to 50 people. More details available from the restaurant.

Open from 10.00am every day for breakfast, e2 also serves the traditional coffee selection as well as pastries, cakes and a selection of baking. Lunches, Pre Theatre and A La Carte available in both areas. Some of the signature dishes definitely worth a try are the fresh Mussles, Pan Fried Sea Bass, and delicous pastas in all shapes and sauces. Looking to save some pennies, why not pop along for the Pre Theatre starting from £10.95.

Make yourself at home at Esca.

Soho on Miller Street is also a very popular and reasonably priced haunt, and you can always try a cocktail with your pizza there.

Of course there are a few other Italian restaurants in the area too including Qua, (which I’ve never eaten in). I remember it when it was Oko, and the Italian Kitchen.

So there is certainly no shortage of places to eat for pasta lovers.

If you want to eat outside and you don’t fancy Italian you can also eat al fresco at St Andrew’s Square at Café Source. It’s terrace is a real sun trap. Café Source, is located in the lower level of St Andrew’s Church and has a contemporary feel, and relaxed atmosphere. The menu offers good Scottish fayre – the likes of West Coast Mussels and lamb shank feature, and it also does one of the best Scottish breakfasts around with Ramsay’s black and white pudding!

Even if you don’t want to eat there’s a fine selection of wines and beers, and it also hosts regularly monthly jazz nights, which are among the best attended in the city. I’ve heard some excellent performers there.

As I’ve already mentioned Café Source is in the basement of St Andrew’s in the Square, a building that I watched being restored. Today it is not only one of the finest neo-classical buildings in Scotland, but in Britain too. Saint Andrew’s in the Square is the second oldest church in Glasgow, after the Cathedral.

It is one of the Merchant City’s architectural gems, and can accommodate up to 300 people and has been used for weddings since…wait for it…at least 1776 ! The wedding of Agnes McLehose (Clarinda), for whom Rabbie Burns wrote Ae Fond Kiss was held here. ➔

10 Things You Didn’t Know About…

The Merchant City • The area was first formed during the 18th century to house the wealthy merchant "tobacco lords" who prospered shipping, amongst other things, tobacco, sugar and tea to the Clyde and fabricated goods to the Americas at this time many classical villas were built in the area.

• The name 'Merchant City' was coined but is of no historical use.

Historically the area was called 'the tron' or 'cross' or simply by most Glaswegians 'the toun' or 'the town'.

• The church St Andrew’s in the Square, is the second oldest church in Glasgow, after the Cathedral. It was built in 1756 because Glasgow’s Tobacco Lords were not allowed private pews at Glasgow Cathedral and they did not deign to mix with ordinary folk!

• The site of the present day Tron Theatre has played a central role in the life of Glasgow City for nearly five centuries, during which time it has been a place of Christian worship (both Catholic and Protestant) and a place of execution, a meeting hall, a market and a store house, a police station and a theatre.

• The Britannia Panopticon Music Hall is the oldest surviving music hall in the UK. Founded in 1857 on the Trongate in Glasgow, Scotland, the Britannia quickly became famed as being the most popular place of amusement in the city and 1500 people would cram themselves onto wooden benches for every show. Over the years the stage saw performances by such greats as Dan Leno, Harry Lauder, Marie Loftus, Charles Coburn, Harry Champion, W. F. Frame and the debut of a sixteen year old Stan Laurel in 1906.

• The City Halls were the first concert halls to be built in the City for the express purpose of public gatherings and orchestral concerts.

When it first opened it played host to the likes of Benjamin Disraeli, Charles Dickens and William Gladstone.

• The Trades Hall designed by Robert Adam in 1791 was designed to accommodate the offices of Glasgow's rising trades guilds. It is Adam’s only surviving Glasgow building and many of his hallmarks are present, such as Venetian windows and unfluted Ionic columns.

Inside, the Hall has rich panelling and a Belgian silk tapestry of 1902 depicting the various trades - fleshers, tanners, bonnet makers, and bakers amongst others.

• The last man to be hanged in Glasgow was Dr Edward William Pritchard, on 28 July 1865. Pritchard had poisoned his wife and mother-in-law. The hanging was attended by 100,000 people at Jail Square, which was near Bell Street.

• During a part of the last Century the "Briggate" was one of the most popular parts of the City. The first bank in Glasgow - the Ship Bank was at the east-end of the Briggate. It was started in January 1750, and existed for a period of eighty-six years, banquets and receptions, and increasingly for wedding parties.

Metropolitan

• During the construction of St Andrews in the Square, in1745, Bonnie Prince Charlie and his Highland Army camped around its walls on return from their disastrous invasion of England.

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Best for… at a glance Drinking: Beer: Blackfriars, Bar 91, Bar Square Cocktails: Metropolitan, Bar Gandolfi Dining: Seafood: City Merchant, Gandolfi Fish Italian: Esca, Piazza Italia, Soho Piazza Italia

Scottish: Café Source, City Merchant, Arisaig Alfresco: Café Source, Piazza Italia

City Merchant

Breakfast: The Brunswick, Café Source, Café Gandolfi Coffee/Tea/Cakes: Berits and Brown, Cranberry’s Music: Live jazz: Café Source

Café Source

Concerts: St Andrew’s in the Square

Live music: Maggie May’s, Blackfriars, Café Source Clubbing: Byblos , The Winchester

Byblos

Weddings: St Andrew’s in the Square 1 St Andrew’s Square, Glasgow, G1 5PP www.standrewsinthesquare.com Tel: 0044 (0)141 548 1174 www.cafesource.com Tel: 0044 (0)141 548 6020 St Andrew’s in the Square

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e2

As well as weddings it is one of the main venues for traditional and classical music in Glasgow and also hosts the Star Folk Club every Thursday, for those who want to do more than tap their toes there is a Wednesday night ceilidh dance class. As well as regular concerts throughout the year, including Scottish Opera Orchestra and Cappella Nova. It is a core venue for the Celtic Connections Festival, and also hosts its own St Andrew’s Festival around St Andrew’s Day on 30th November. If you have not been why not take advantage of its free guided tours, which take place every Thursday from 10.30am – 1pm or at other times by appointment with the venue management.

It’s not just eating and drinking that the Merchant City has become well known for it is also one of the most creative areas in the city. Small art galleries and artists studios abound. It started off because rents were cheap in the area and artist-led organizations could afford to set up there. And now the area has been given the tag the ‘cultural quarter’. And there’s art for everyone with a diverse, eclectic mix of galleries. A walk along Parnie Street and around the Tron, give you a good idea of what’s on offer. One of the longest established and striking is Street Level Photoworks. Well worth a visit and it also offers the public access to traditional darkroom and print finishing facilities. These facilities will be expanding and improving in the near future as part of the Trongate 103 development.

Another gallery on the radar is Q! Gallery & Studio it is home to Glasgay!, Scotland's annual celebration of gay culture. The gallery and studio offer a seasonal programme of exhibitions and small scale performances.

Glasgay! Takes place in the autumn with events at up to 20 venues across the city.

And ArtDeCaf is also worth checking out. This is both a gallery and a café/bistro, and has dance classes and music too.

The Merchant City as you can see is bursting at the seams with things to do, and places to visit. And I’ve not even got round to mentioning the shopping…

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BAR SQUARE Bar square is open for food and drinks from 9am till 12am 7 days, and can be enjoyed indoors or out in the seating area in the square where children are welcome during the day.

Check out the shoppers lu nch for £5.95 for 2 courses, an d the pre-theatre menu on offer.

5 Bell Street, Glasgow G1 1NX Tel: 0141-552 3232

STRATA New Function suite now available for party bookings of up to 50 people.

Shoppers lunch includes 2 courses for £5.95

Cocktail es masterclass the month throughout 2 course £29.95 incl. cocktails, meal and 3 e g roups g reat for larg nd hen of friends, a parties.

45 Queen Street, Glasgow G1 3EH Call 0141 221 1888 to book.

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etropolitan is a stunning bar and restaurant venue situated in the heart of Glasgow’s stylish Merchant City. Now in its eighth year, we’re established as one of the city’s leading venues – a favourite with locals and visiting celebrities alike. And no wonder: incorporating a stylish, tear-shaped bar; airy courtyard; elegant restaurant lounge; plush private dining room; and two stunning balconies.

Sun-soaked in the summer, or cosy under a canopy of twinkling star-lights in winter, our Victorian market home oozes tradition and character. Exposed stone walls and high, vaulted ceilings make this the perfect place to impress.

Our reputation for serving fresh, simplycooked, local produce with just a touch of the unusual means our restaurant is always in demand, and the same creativity and attention to detail in our cocktail list has won us many awards.

Large but small, our different areas mean we’re as perfect for big corporate groups as we are intimate tables of two.

And with our ever popular pre-theatre menu, weekend specials and dedicated Laurent-Perrier bar we look forward to enjoying continued success.

60 Candleriggs Glasgow, G1 1LE Tel: 0141 553 1488 www.metropolitan-bar.com

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ocated underneath the Victorian Candleriggs market, refurbished and renamed as Merchant Square, Byblos features three lavishly designed rooms catering to a variety of musical needs. Whether you enjoy good company and a fine bottle of wine at one of our VIP tables in our Orchid Lounge or listening to some of the world's best guest DJ's on a custom built sound system, Byblos has got it!

64 Albion St Glasgow, G1 1NY Tel: 0141 552 3895 www.byblosglasgow.com

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The Scottish Licensed Trade Awards organised by our sister publication, the DRAM, took place at the end of June and what a night it was. From Scotland’s coolest venues to its most contemporary, from nautical to small, there were winners from all over the country. Why not pay a visit this summer if you get a chance. You won’t be disappointed!

TICE BAR APPREN MAXXIUM UK R A OF THE YE

W

E NIGHT OOLEST LAT RED BULL C A E HE Y R VENUE OF T

MORGAN ’S SPICED CONTEMPORARY BAR OF THE YEAR

Cone, Helen Mc The Ivy, Glasgow

The Rutland, Edinburgh

Boho, Glasgow

REPERTOIRE SMALL BAR OF THE YEAR 2009

Prospect Best Design Award

BENROMACH NAUTICAL BAR OR RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

Crabshakk, Glasgow

The Anderson, Fortrose

Portavadie Marina, Loch Fyne

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UNG BROWN-FORMAN YO YEAR E H T F O R U E ENTREPREN

Colin Church & Martin Luney, Big Red Teapot

CARLING LICENSEE OF THE YEAR

John Carrigan, John Carrigan’s Eating House

WHISKY BAR WEE DRAM YEAR E H OF T

DRAM A Wee

is, Ben Nev Glasgow

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HEINEKEN M ULTIPLE OPE RATOR OF THE YEA R

DRAM AWARD FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

DRAM

Carlo Citti, Campus, Glasgow

Montpelie rs Edinburg h Ltd WAVERLEY T BS GASTRO PUB OF THE YEA R

PUB OMMUNITY McEWAN’S C R A E Y E H OF T

The Cros s Keys, Kippen

ental, The Occid Ferry ty h g Brou

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

DRAM

SUNDAY MAI L PUB OF TH E YEAR

Bob Taylor, The Taylor Agency

The Mark et Arms, Montros e

ALSO SUPPORTED BY A Wee

DRAM

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fashion

S Cream Military Jacket £40, Blue and White Striped Scarf £10, White Broderie Dress £30, Therapy@ House of Fraser

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STRIPING OUT It's not just nautical stripes that are proving a hit with the fashion brigade, stripes in any shape or form are making a comeback. They certainly help you get noticed.

T-Shirt £12, Belt £15, Smart Short £25, Topman

21 Polo Shirt £14, Waistcoat £25, Topman

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fashion

Black Pirate Waistcoat £25, Blue and White Diagonal Stripe Cami £20, White Pleated Skirt £25, All Therapy, Socks from a selection by Wolford at House of Fraser

Hoody £40, Polo £16, Jeans £35, Shoes £30, Topman

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PAST IT?

WORDS: Penny Devlin like Lily Allen, but lately I have gone right off her, because according to the lyrics of her latest song, “22”, everyone 30 or over is well past their sell –by-date.

She sings, “When she was 22 the future looked bright She’s nearly 30 now and she’s out every night It’s sad but true how society says her life is already over There is nothing to do and nothing to say Til the man of her dreams comes along picks her up and puts her over his shoulder.”

What planet is Lily, 24, living on?

Firstly, as an over 30, I can tell you life definitely is just as good, if not better the older you get, and secondly if you don’t have a man in you life by 30, its not the end of the world. Far from it.

In fact we were just lamenting in the office, it’s not the lack of men out there, it’s the quality, that’s the issue. The other issue is meeting men that are sober!

That’s one thing that comes with age, and it’s no bad thing, is learning to give the brush off to inebriated guys. Far from being a turn-on, a guy way under the influence is definitely a turn-off.

And so say all of us!

That doesn’t mean to say that I am anti-drink, far from it, I love going

I

out and having a few, whether that’s a full bottle or half bottle, usually I am still steady on my feet when I go home, and I want a guy that’s steady on his feet too. There is nothing worse than a guy slavering over you, and giving you the chat up lines, that if he was sober he wouldn’t even know, or for that matter remember.

The other issue is, when you meet a guy that is clearly drunk, you actually don’t know what he is like sober. But I would imagine it is a quandary for guys – if you go out with a crowd then are you the one that is going to be the partypooper? And say after six pints, I have had enough, soft drinks for me. Can you imagine it? The only excuse a non-drinker seems to have is “I’m driving”… or “I’m on antibiotics’, and that is not always acceptable.

It’s a real pity they couldn’t say, “That’s enough for me, I’m on the pull tonight!” or in other words, “I want to meet some girls and be able to have a half decent conversation with them, and then perhaps actually ask someone out!”

The other thing which amazes me when I’m out is the number of guys who once they have had a few, can’t actually tell when a girl is not interested. Their mates don’t seem to cotton on either, often egging

them on.

I’ve a male friend who literally has a few drinks before he goes out, then meets the lads, they do the same circuit, and end up in a club.

He’ll pick up a similarly inebriated female, they go home, and he doesn’t ever go out with them again. Usually, because he can hardly remember them. This does create its own problems for instance when he bumps into them again and introduces himself, only for them to say we have already met!

Another friend was out on a date, had a lovely meal with a bloke, but she didn’t really want to see the meal two hours later when he threw up over her. Equally she didn’t want to see him again.

The same friend was out one night, and was being chatted up by another guy, who was so drunk he didn’t realise that his girlfriend was in the same club, and of course she clocked him. He ended up single, and without a new phone number!

What an idiot.

A pity there is not a litmus test for men – give them a bit of paper to suck and if it turns blue… they are too drunk to date, but here’s hoping no-one comes up with an age litmus test for women, because in Ms Allen’s eyes anyone over 30 would no doubt strike out too.

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feature

THE TASTIEST SUMMER COCKTAILS Am ber

eze

C

d ice Sp n’s Morga

There’s also the ‘Show Me The Monkey’ cocktail – which as well as a double shot of Monkey Shoulder, you add a shot of Drambuie, and top it up with apple juice.

Although Bacardi is promoting their Mojito on TV why not try a wee twist on the rum Mojito by using Morgan’s Spiced instead. The Morgan’s Spiced Mojito. All you need are four white sugar cubes, a double t shot of Morgan’s, 7-8 fresh mint ig h leaves and a sliced and diced rs L Coo lime. The sugar, mint and lime are muddled together in a tall glass, add crushed ice, pour in the Morgan’s and top up with soda water and stir.

Simple and tasty.

I also tried a few beer S u cocktails the other week.

Cr l e e Kast Molson Coors are doing their best to get women drinking more beer, and if the cocktails I’ve tasted are anything to go by they could be onto a winner. Look out for Kasteel Cru, the champagne style beer – which when added to Pimms and Strawberry Bols becomes a ‘Summer Breeze’. It is lovely, and a bit different too. um me r Bre

ocktails have come a long way since ‘Sex and the City’ hit our screens. Then if you asked for a Cosmopolitan someone would have probably handed you a magazine.

Today, most city centre style bars, whether you are in Edinburgh, Glasgow or Aberdeen, have a comprehensive cocktail list. But for consumers it’s not that easy. With the wide variety on offer how do you know that you will like it?

Most cocktail enthusiasts will be familiar with the likes of a Cosmopolitan, French Martini (still one of the most popular cocktails around) and the Mojito – the rum and lime summer drink. But what about some of the other cocktails you may see on a list? To make things easy for you Repertoire has come up with a guide to some great cocktails to look out for whether your taste runs to whisky, rum or vodka.

There are two great cocktails from Monkey Shoulder – the world’s first triple malt.

The first is a ‘Monkey Mule’ – similar to the Moscow mule but with Monkey Shoulder instead of the vodka.

Even if the bar doesn’t have it on the menu, they could still whip it up – all it takes is a double measure of Monkey Shoulder, a dash of Angostura bitters, a lime wedge squeezed, topped up with ginger ale! It certainly has a kick, M o ji and is refreshing too. to

We asked a few bartenders what their best selling summer cocktails were: here’s what they recommended.

Jamie Hamilton, Metropolitan, Glasgow Jamie Hamilton, Bar Manager for Metropolitan has recently introduced the Coconut Hurricane as part of Metropolitan's new cocktail menu launched on Thursday the 6th of August.

The new menu also boasts a special feature on Rum cocktails in honour of the new Bacardi Rum courtyard bar that will be launched later this year in September. The Coconut Hurricane looks set to be a popular choice on the menu.

Says Jamie, 'This decadent blend of both white and gold Bacardi with coconut schnapps is a mix of flavours of the Caribbean.

At our new courtyard Bacardi bar here at Metropolitan the Coconut Hurricane is guaranteed to go down a storm'.

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Moji to

WORDS: Susan Young

Coconut Hurricane Ingredients 25ml Bacardi White 25ml Bacardi Oro 25ml coconut schnapps 25ml Orange juice 37.5ml pineapple juice Dash of bitters Dash or grenadine Method Shake and strain ingredients into glass then drizzle grenadine over top. Serve in a Hurricane glass and garnish with orange and cherry on a stick.

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feature

Mal Spence, rick’s Edinburgh Ricks in Edinburgh has undergone a full refurbishment and is looking fantastic.

Malcolm Spence the Head Mixologist at Ricks has just created a new cocktail menu for the bar, that features 4 different eras of Scottish cultare and history including the 1920's of Havana, mid to early 1900's of Manhattan, the British colonial era and also New Orleans. Malcolm is well known for his superior recipes, and while receiving feedback on the best Gin Fizz cocktails from DJ Alexander who recently visited the bar he was inspired to create "The Alexander Gin Fizz". After Malcolm experimented with various Gin Fizz recipes for David to try, they decided the Alexander Gin Fizz was definitely the best, and it now has been added to the cocktail list in honour of him. Another interesting change that will continue to set rick’s aside on the cocktail front is that they are now hand making and hand cutting their own ice. "A cocktail is only as strong as your weakest ingredient, which would be your ice." says Malcolm. "So by hand

freezing, and handcutting our own ice, blocks and moulds means we are controlling every aspect of the standard of the cocktails on offer."

The Alexander Gin Fizz Ingredients 50ml Martin Millers Gin 20ml freshly squeezed lemon juice 20ml freshly squeezed lime juice 25ml sugar syrup dash of egg white Method Shaken and strained over 1/2 pint stem glass, and topped with soda.

Show Me The Monkey In a highball glass add: Ingredients

Method

Monkey Mule

Garnish

50ml Monkey Shoulder 25ml Drambuie 100ml apple juice 4 fresh mint leaves Shake all the ingredients together and double strain into an ice-filled highball glass.

Banana slice & mint leaf.

In a highball glass add: Ingredients

Method

Garnish

50ml Monkey Shoulder 1 lime wedge, squeezed 20ml sugar syrup Top ginger beer 1 dash Angostura Bitters In a highball muddle all ingredients except the ginger ale. Add some crushed ice, stir and top up with ginger ale.

3 mint leaves & lime wedge.

Monkey Tips Even if you haven’t got the right bar kit, have a crack at shaking a drink at home. Just use an empty jam jar as a shaker and a fine sieve to strain You can buy sugar syrup but it’s easy to make your own. Dissolve 2 parts sugar to 1 part water over heat.

For added spice, make chilli or ginger syrup by then adding 3 chillies or some sliced ginger and simmering for an hour. Leave to cool 27

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Mac Operator Wanted Experienced Mac Operator required for small publishing company.

Essential skills include Quark Express/ Photoshop and Illustrator.

An eye for design and ability to work under pressure as well as magazine and web experience would be ideal.

Contact: Susan@mediaworldltd.com with full CV and examples of previous work.

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feature

MIX IT UP WITH RUM For the last few years rum has been the choice of discerning bartenders, they have drunk it straight, mixed it and caused a run on mint. Repertoire takes a look at why rum is proving a hit. here seems to be nearly as many rums out there as there are whiskies, however the most popular are Bacardi and Morgan’s Spiced, with dark rum OVD Scotland’s favourite dark rum.

To explain the differences simply, young rums are great for mixing, such as Bacardi and Havana Club Anejo Blanco, while golden rum has been aged for longer and dark rum even longer. Rums generally speaking come from areas where sugar cane is grown. Rum is distilled from the extracted juice of the sugar cane plant, or in some cases the by-product of the refining process which is molasses... so anywhere sugar cane is grown in abundance is likely to be somewhere that rum is made too…the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Barbadoes, Guyana, Australia, Tahiti, Martinique, Brazil, the USA, and so on.

And no matter what anyone tells you there really is no such thing as the best rum, it’s all a matter of taste, and occasion.

Whether you want to mix it with coke, drink it straight or have it in a cocktail there is a rum for every occasion. Most bars have Bacardi and Morgan’s, but you will also see a wide variety of rums in bars such as The Ivy, Metropolitan and Booly Mardy’s in Glasgow and Rick’s, Bramble and Hamilton’s in Edinburgh.

The most popular brands are well marketed, you may have noticed Morgan’s Spiced recent campaign which takes a humorous slant, more of that later, and of course Bacardi, who have been heavily promoting the ‘original Mojito,’ but you also might have seen Brugal this summer. A rum relatively new to Scottish bars, this Dominican Republic rum has been on a promotional tour and the Brugal Lime truck has been out and about offering customers a lime and a Brugal Golden Mojito Guide to encourage people to try Brugal in city bars. In Edinburgh consumers struck it lucky by taking the Brugal Golden Mojito Guide and the lime

T

to one of the partner bars, it could be exchanged for a complementary Golden Mojito, while in Glasgow licensing laws didn’t allow this so Glaswegians were only encouraged to go and buy one.

Morgan’s are also doing a sampling campaign as part of a new campaign. Called ‘the modern adventurer’ it is all about exploring closer to home. It’s definitely a tongue-in-cheek campaign, which shows blokes navigating their way to the pub. A familiar sight! Specially selected bars will also offer consumers the chance to win £50 Ticketmaster gift vouchers with every Morgan’s Spiced purchased. So if you like rum and socialising this could be ideal.

Other rums that you are likely to see are Sailor Jerry – named after the famous tattoo artist – Mount Gay, arguably the oldest rum in the world, and Havana Club, which promotes its Cuban heritage heavily. It is one of the biggest selling rums in the world. There’s also a reasonably new addition to the range Havana Club Cuban Barrel Proof, which is bottled straight from the barrel. The new rum uses ancient rum making techniques to give it a robust character and rich flavour. Expect to see it where rum is a speciality.

Another rum, Woods 100, is probably the choice of the bartender who wants to impress, his customers. It’s used by bartenders in cocktails, so look out for it on cocktail menus.

However it is a Peruvian rum that can claim the title of world's best rum. It just won the ‘best-in-show award at the 4th annual Polished Palate International Rum Competition held in Florida. Ron Millonario Solera 15 Reserva Especial received a score of 90 or better from each of the judges to win the first-ever designation in The Polished Palate awards.

Rums entering this competition came from Peru, Mexico, Africa, Panama and the US. Whether we will ever see them here or not remains to be seen. But what is a sure thing is the continued success of rum that is easily mixed!

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style

stylefile Your guide to the most stylish handbags around.

When leaving home wearing the latest fashion trend, don't forget to team your signature look with the perfect bag. Sporting a fab in-season bag can make all the difference in transforming your look, and ladies we can never have too many handbags can we? So who needs an excuse to get shopping? Here are some fab bags with a choice to match everyone’s budget. Here's a handy tip - The larger the bag the smaller you actually look! And there’s more room to store your comfy flats after a night out in your heels!

Fluro Bag £18, ASOS.com

Black and White Diamonte Clutch £12.99

Navy Patent Shoulder Bag £60 Linea, House of Fraser

Brown Sued Man Bag £39.99, TK Maxx

Script Print Athena Bag £19.99, A Gift From The Gods

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Leather Panel Detail Cross Body Bag £60 Diesel, House of Fraser

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style

Metallic Smocked Tassel Clutch £35, Dorothy Perkins

Rhiana Bow Front Bag £49 , Suzy Smith @ Bhs Handbags

Cheetah Print Tote £165 Episode, House of Fraser

Jeans by Jasper Conran Greta Gathered Slouch Shoulder £55, Debenhams Blue Leather Tote £135 Linea, House of Fraser

Grey Leather Dome Bag £210 Diesel, House of Fraser

Malika Medium Shoulder Bag £69, Suzy Smith @ Bhs

Clementon Bow Clutch Bag £20, aldoshoes.com 31

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people Some of the guests enjoying themselves at this year’s Scottish Licensed Trade Awards at the Thistle in Glasgow.

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people

BodyRox

WORDS: Lynn Kelly

What a fab night I had in Byblos, with D.J talent BodyRox who was playing a set at the club on Saturday 25th July.

Byblos is easily one of my favourite clubs on the town, and I m pleased to hear there will be upcoming guest D.J talent visiting on a regular basis. The club is in a perfect location as it s right on Merchant Square, which for me means I can enjoy my Mojito in Metropolitan, then It s only a quick totter in my heels across the Square to the club. Byblos definitely offers something for everybody across the three impressively designed rooms, whether your listening to some classic house selections in room 1, chilling to some RnB and Fun and Funk in Room 2, or enjoying a fine bottle of wine or a chilled beer in the Orchid VIP Lounge. And when you need a break from all that dancing, there are comfy sofas and tables to chill out for a breather. Room 1 was Jumping during Body Rox which started about 1am, allowing everyone to get in and grab a drink first without missing any of the action. And even those who normally favour the the RnB classics next door, were still popping through to enjoy the set. One of the reasons I love this club is because you can t fault the service, from the door staff, to bar staff, the professionalism of the managers and even the friendly cloakroom attendent. I always know I can take friends along and ensure they will have a great night, which quite often sees them coming back for more. Check out the dates below for upcoming club nights, and log onto www.byblosglasgow.com for some profiles on the regular D.Js. Byblos Presents: Oliver Lang - Sat 29th Aug. Marshall Jefferson - Sat 26th Sept Copyright - Sat 24th Oct Stonebridge - 28th Nov Radio Clyde 1 Beach Party hosted by Suzie & Romeo, with special guests Booty Love. Fri 14th August Fierce Angel with Mark Doyle, Sat 15th Aug. Check out weekly club night Sabado on Saturdays with Jon Mancini playing house in Room 1 and Stuart McCorrisken playing R & B, fun & funk in Room 2.

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Last Word Repertoire’s monthly round up of what’s been happening in Scotland’s bars.

Steamers In the aisles....

I have encountered more drunks recently in my local supermarkets that I have in bars. One man followed me around my local supermarket until I gave in and listened to him rambling on about needing a birthday card. He needed me to pick one out because he was too drunk to read them.

I reluctantly helped him to save a scene, although every member of staff ignored him. It gives a whole new meaning to the term “customer service!” If the staff don't want to deal with drunks why should the shoppers? Another man was so drunk that he fell into a promotions stand! He was allowed to get up and continue shopping! You would be asked to leave a bar for less! Perhaps these guys are looking for love in the supermarket and need some dutch courage, but come on, there's no need for that much! Or maybe the Summer months have allowed for more barbecues and daytime drinking attracting thirsty shoppers in need of more cut-price alcohol. Either way, I'm ordering online from now on!

Bobar 3rd Birthday This month I popped down to Bobar and celebrated their 3rd Birthday with them while enjoying some complimentary cocktails. The night seemed to be a success, and the cocktails were delicous. My personal favourite was the Flirtini, yum! There was also some tasty nibbles on offer, that were welcomed by those who stopped off straight from work. It was lovely sitting in the open seated area, and enjoying the sunny weather and vibrance of Byres Road. It was also refreshing to see a real mix of people, most of which looked to be at home from home . I ll definitely be back to sample a few more of the delicious cocktails. Thanks to Gordon and all his team.

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Something in the music......

For all the glitz and glam of some of the bars about town there is still the old classics that mustn't be forgotten. I visited McChuills recently in the Tron, and mingled with devoted music lovers, and watched some talented bands play live sets to the support of the regulars.

This bar is a hidden gem and has been bringing live music to the city for over 15 years!! Pop down on a Friday night and see some of the bands for yourself, if you enjoy live music you won't be disappointed! One particular band that impressed me were the Hardy Souls, definitely one to look out for!

Mums magic hangover cure My brother and I no matter how hungover, always make to mum's every Sunday as we wouldn't miss her delicous Sunday dinners.

However alongwith last weeks Roast chicken, was a small tablet sitting next to the cutlery. Both my brother and I were ordered by mum to take the tablet, in the promise that it would help our hangovers! The mystery pill was “Milk Thistle” and it certainly did the trick. You can either take it before a night out or after, and is available from Holland and Barretts, for less than a fiver. Of course we could be more sensible and drink less! Talking of hangovers if there's a film to see this summer it's 'The Hangover'. It's one of the funniest films I've seen in a long time, which still has me laughing out loud everytime I get a flashback. Although I'm not a great fan of the cinema, this is definitely one I would go back and see again. It's ideal for a fun night out with a group of mates, guaranteeing more than a few laughs.

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Bavarian folklore tells of ‘Josef Meier’ renowned as one of the original Alpine herb growers when the distilling and blending of herbs and spices first began. Josef Meier’s Herbal liqueur is made from a secret recipe with more than 50 herbs and spices for a unique taste.

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