Spring Edition 2013 Issue 86
Help us crown Scotland’s Top Bars
Interview: Ed Reid The Huxley, Edinburgh The Buzz on Bath Street 1
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Finally, we are starting to see some sunshine, which can mean only one thing, spring is here. Hopefully this will entice most of you to get out and about to see all the new bars that have been popping up in town, and there are certainly plenty to choose from. For the lowdown on new bar openings and drinks news, check out our news pages. This month, we have also launched the DRAM awards 2013 which has a Coronation theme (as in the Queen, not chicken!) The front cover pays tribute to this and you can find out how you can help crown Scotland’s top bars and award details on page 26 and 27. I’m pleased to welcome columnist Sean Murphy on board for this issue with some straight talking whisky quips. Find out what he has to say on page 13. This month’s Bar Browser is The Huxley, which is part of the Rutland Hotel, Edinburgh. To see what’s inside check out pages 14 and 15. Bath Street seems to be where it’s at these days so we’ve dedicated a feature to the Buzz on Bath Street. Checkout some on the top haunts on pages 22, 23 and 24. Finally, our interview this month is with Edward Reid, who is better known for his stint on Britain’s Got Talent. Read all about it his antics on pages 18 and 19. I hope you enjoy this issue, Lynn Kelly Editor lynn@mediaworldltd.com
04 . . . . . . . . News 11 . . . . . . . . . Drinks Feature: Whisky 14 . . . . . . . . Bar Browser: The Huxley 18 . . . . . . . . Ed Reid: Interview 20 . . . . . . . . Fashion: Spring Trends 22 . . . . . . . . Buzz on Bath Street 28 . . . . . . . . Harlem Shake
Published by Media World Ltd. Upper Floor, Finnieston House, 1 The Stables Yard, 1103 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8ND T. 0141 221 6965
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.
Editor-in-chief: Susan Young Editor: Lynn Kelly Contributors: Jason Caddy Advertising Executive: Martin Cassidy, Administration: Cheryl Cook Production Manager: Jill Donald
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News
Tastiest burgers around? Cocktail & Burger is one of the newest bars to hit Sauchiehall Street in Glasgow. Formerly the Bier Hof, this trendy new haunt does a great burger and great cocktails (as you would expect with the name!) Everything here has a relaxed approach, including the staff, and you get the vibe of a cool, underground bar the moment you start to walk downstairs. The bar is open from midday Wednesday to Sunday, and from 5pm Monday and Tuesday. Get along quick while they are still offering 2 for 1 on all house burgers and apple hotdogs.
New Craft Beer pub opens Fans of craft beer will no doubt be heading to Munro’s on Glasgow’s Great Western Road. The latest bar from Maclay Inns was formerly the Captain’s Rest, but we can assure you it bears no resemblence to its former incarnation. Instead, this bright and airy bar is a mix of old and new. Décor has been strongly influenced by Scottish heritage with the use of lots of wood and tweed and leather upholstery. The current trend for up cycling is out in force at Munro’s with tables made from giant cable drums and huge tyres hanging from the ceiling – in a nod to a previous life as Munro’s Garage. There’s also a cosy snug, and beer lovers can take their pick from a good range of permanent beers as well as six guest craft and cask too. And if you can’t decide, you could always try their Cask and Craft Taster Bats – 3 x 1/3 pints of your favourite. The bar is open from 10am and serves food as well and also offers a fine range of wines too. It’s at 185 Great Western Road, Glasgow.
Kitchin and Jack get set to open pub
Top Michelin star chefs Tom Kitchin and Dominic Jack are to open their first pub in the spring. The team, who currently have Michelin star establishments The Kitchin and Castle Terrace Restaurant, will open their new pub in Stockbridge on the site of the former San Marco Restaurant on Comely Bank Road. The pub, they say, will compliment the local area’s vibrant food and drink offering, and they plan to draw on their culinary flair, expertise and local supplier relationships, to present a warm, family-friendly atmosphere matched with affordable, freshly prepared, home-cooked dishes using the very best local produce. The neighbourhood bar will also highlight local beers and carry a good range of spirits. It doesn’t have a name yet, but when it does we will let you know.
Southern style for West End 4
Gumbo is the newest addition to Glasgow’s Byres Road. The new bar, formerly The Common Rooms, aims to bring the feel of New Orleans to the West End. Soul food, from Gumbo to chicken wings, and live music, ranging from jazz and blues to hip hop and reggae, helps create the feel of the southern states. The bar has been refurbished and given a southern feel with lots of greenery, exposed brick, wood and a stage.
Angels’ Share gets set to open The Angels’ Share, formerly The Hudson, will open this month in Edinburgh. The new-look hotel, bar and club from the man behind Le Monde, will have a Scottish feel, but of the cool and contemporary kind, not heather and haggis. Says owner Billy Lowe, “I loved the idea of the Angels’ Share (the whisky that evaporates during distillation) and visited whisky bars all over the world to get a feel, but I also wanted to take the Scottish feel throughout the whole
hotel. I didn’t want tartan and heather but cool and current. We also had the idea of naming rooms and theming them after Scots who were also cool and current. It’s similar to what we did at Le Monde with the worldwide cities. So we will have rooms named after the likes of Kelly MacDonald, Gerard Butler, Lulu, Andy Murray, Nicola Benedetti, Denis Law, Ewan McGregor, Paulo Nutini, Gordon Ramsay, Gavin Hastings and so on. All in all
Bulmers Reverse Look out for a couple of new fruit ciders that are set to rock the apple cart. Bulmers Cider Bold Black Cherry and Bulmers Cider Pressed Red Grape should be chilling in the fridges of your favourite bars and clubs soon. There’ll be lots of promotional activity using the likes of Facebook and Twitter to push them. The TV ads are called Bulmers Reverse, and shows a night out in reverse order, beginning with a Bulmers over ice. Check out the ad at www.barandpub.tv. Swing is a new bar on Hope Street in Glasgow which is a haven for live music enthusiasts with a penchant for jazz, blues and ska. The new venue, which opened at the start of the month is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5pm until midnight at the moment. Says owner Emma Marsh, “It has a supper club vibe, and we have our own resident band and performers. They are all well experienced and many of them have played at Ronnie Scott’s.” The new bar/club is on the site of the former Crow Bar, but that is all that remains the same. Says Emma, “It’s small and intimate, but opulent too.” Swing is at 183A Hope Street.
there will be 30 rooms.” Downstairs there will be a New York style speakeasy with a Scottish twist called the Devils Cut. Billy explains, “The plan is to have a daily or weekly password that those in the know use to get in. And we will be serving cocktails in cups and such like. We’ve moved the piano downstairs and we will have a regular pianist too. While the Angels’ Share bar will feature some great whiskies – some 300 in total.”
St Patrick’s Day treat for musical fans
If you are not heading down to your local for a pint of Guinness on St Paddy’s Day, and prefer musical theatre to Celtic bands, why not head to 29 in Glasgow’s Royal Exchange Square, and enjoy the musical extravaganza that is Broadway in the Bar. Promoters Insideout Promotions are promising a West End musical experience, good banter and a glass of tasty wine. Stars of the show include Leah MacRae from BBC1’s Gary Tank Comander, and Pamela Byrne from River City. Tickets cost just £15, so make sure you get the date in the diary. For tickets call 29 direct on 0141 225 5613. 5
News Calling all chocoholics Whisky liqueur Mickey Finn has added a new dessert flavour to its range just in time for Easter. ‘Mickey Finn Whipped Chocolate Fruit & Nut’ is made using apples, blended with chocolate and hazelnut. It can be enjoyed with ice, as a cocktail ingredient or even in desserts. Said a spokesperson for the brand, “With Easter approaching, we think that chocolate fruit and nut in a bottle is the perfect treat for chocoholics up and down the country. And it tastes just as good straight as it does over desserts.” Look out for promotions linked to the ‘Taking the Mickey’ and ‘What’s Your Flavourite’ campaigns. Mickey Finn already includes Mickey Finn Sour Green Apple, Mickey Finn Sour Raspberry and Mickey Finn Sour Blueberry.
Spring is Here!
With Easter fast approaching, why not treat yourself to a delicious dining experience at Tempus Restaurant. To make a reservation please contact us on 0141 240 3770 or email tempus.gch@principal.haley.com
Tempus Restaurant, 99 Gordon Street, Glasgow, Scotland, G1 3SF www.thegrandcentralhotel.co.uk
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Glasgow’s Park Road probably wouldn’t figure that highly on a pub crawl for most of you. But you may want to make a detour to this part of the West End now that The Richmond Bar and Bistro has opened at 144 Park Road, which the more seasoned among you may remember as Bar Bola. But many moons have passed since then, and this is a must-see bar as far as we’re concerned, with a plush new interior, views over the River Kelvin, and it’s within a stone’s throw of the fertile pub ground that is Gibson Street. Think 1920s meets modern day for the look of the interior, which comprises lots of wood and glass, and some of the most comfortable seating this side of the Clyde. The Richmond opens at 11am during the week and from 9am at weekends, serving a full breakfast, eggs the way you like them, plus a tea or a coffee for £7. Also available are lighter options like bacon rolls. The menu was being overhauled as we went to press, but lunch and dinner staples that will remain are the Richmond Burger (£8.50 lunch/£11.00 dinner) and the Monkfish Scampi (£14.00). Cocktails come in at around the £6 mark, and we’ve been reliably informed that customers can’t get enough of the Clover Club (gin, lemon juice, Dry Vermouth, sugar syrup and egg) and The Richmond Martini, with a grapefruit twist.
Gin’s long since shaken off the mother’s ruin shackles to become one of the coolest spirits on the back bar. Rarely does a month pass by without another new gin or flavour variant, and the spot light this time around is on Gordon’s. Look out for its new collection of flavoured gins debuting in a bar near you. They are Gordon’s Crisp Cucumber, designed to be mixed with tonic, Gordon’s & Tonic with a hint of cucumber (yes, we wondered what the difference was, too!) and Gordon’s & Tonic with a dash of elderflower. Some great drinks with which to toast the arrival of spring.
Leith gets first beer bar Drambuie unveils
new cocktails
The Vintage is Wm Bros second new bar. The Vintage Craft Beer Bar and Kitchen has opened in Leith. It offers 13 draught Craft Beers (10 keg and 3 Cask), 22 wines by the glass, a bespoke British charcuterie and a seasonal a la carte menu. However, there are no badges on the fonts but there are Vintage Labels from all the great Craft Houses, casually draped around the décolletage of the taps. The new bar is the second from the brewer. Inn Deep opened in Kelvinbridge, Glasgow last year and is already proving a success.
Edinburgh’s Bon Vivant played host to a cocktail tasting with a difference recently. Following weeks of experimentation with the Rusty Nail, the good folks at Drambuie unveiled a new selection of the classic cocktail to some of Scotland’s finest bar tenders and drinks industry movers and shakers. Each was aged in a certain type of barrel, including rum, port, red wine, bourbon and sherry, and the cocktails were served blind to the panel, alongside the original, to determine which was the most extraordinary variation on this classic cocktail. The sherry barrel aged variety emerged as the favourite. There’ll be more tastings in other bars in the coming months, before Drambuie decides on which one to eventually roll out, for you to make part of your repertoire.
Lager’s turning Fruity If you like a fruity twist to your lager, those thoughtful people at Foster’s have answered your prayers with Foster’s Radler. It’s a blend of Foster’s lager cut with natural lemon juice. For all those fact finders out there, the beer takes its name from the German name for ‘cyclist’, as back in the 1920s, cyclists would drink the mixed beer in the mountains when stopping for a rest. The Radler concept has already taken off with some our European neighbours and the likes of Belgium and Poland have introduced similar variants to their mainstream lager brands. Elsewhere, a premium bottled beer infused with Cuban rum, called Bachata, should be hitting Scotland’s bars soon. It’s made using lager which is blended with a dash of golden rum, and there’s also a hint of orange zest, too. 7
Have you tried it yet? The ‘Hive’ is a hand crafted, award winning whisky named after its natural honey flavours. www.wemyssmalts.com
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News Zizzi opens first bar and restaurant in Glasgow
The former Borders site situated between Buchanan Street and Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow is now a Zizzi’s and also boasts Zizzi’s first in-house bar. The building has been totally renovated and makes the most of its historical architecture to create a stunning space for dining out. Every Wednesday, the new Zizzi’s is also hosting a Fresh Talent Music Session from 7pm. For more details check out its facebook page.
Animal antics at Woodlands creatures The Balfour Bar on Leith Walk has just benefitted from an extensive refurbishment and a new name ‘Woodlands Creatures’. It’s got a shabby chic look with reclaimed wooden tables, stripped stone walls and lots of animals... from artwork to lively looking squirrels. Perhaps this is not surprising since it is the theme of the bar and cafe which is a joint venture between Louise Thomas and sculptor Christopher Mooney. The initial idea was to provide a gallery space and a cafe/bar. This gallery space also doubles as a function room. And later this month, a small beer garden is expected to open at the back of the outlet. Woodlands Creatures is at 260-262 Leith Walk.
Horsing Around Went to the fridge to check my burgers, aaaaannndddd they’re off! I think someone may be sending me death threats…Woke up this morning with a Tesco burger on my pillow. IKEA meatballs contain horse DNA... There’s a joke in there somewhere, you’ll have to assemble it yourselves. A cow walks into a bar. Barman asks, “Why the long face?” Cow replies, “Wanted to see how the horses like it, coming over here stealing our jobs!” So now Findus have withdrawn their products because of Horse meat contamination. Shame, I really liked their Spaghetti Bologneighs. Q. What’s the difference between horsemeat and beef? A. I don’t know, I’ve probably never tried beef. I’ve just found out that the chocolate pudding I bought from Tesco earlier is 100% moose. Scientists have finally discovered why the World didn’t end last December. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse had nothing to ride on thanks to the UK’s Beef Industry. They say you are what you eat. No wonder my girlfriend is such a bloody nag. New Tesco burgers: Low in fat, high in Shergar. Had my first crap since eating a Findus lasagne. I found the going was firm to soft.
Vote for your Favourite Bars and Pubs
Repertoire in association with our sister publication DRAM is set to crown Scotland’s top bars and pubs. The awards, which this year have as their theme ‘The Coronation’, pays homage to the fact that 2013 is the 60th anniversary of the Queen’s Coronation. So if you have a favourite new bar, rate a family-friendly pub, cocktail bar or believe there is a bar out there that excels when it comes to customer service... let us know. Check out page 26 and 27 for more details. Now in their 18th year, the 2013 DRAM Awards recognise and reward excellence in the licensed trade and are also supported by Benromach, BII Scotland, Critic’s Choice, DRAM, Forth Wines, Kopparberg, Kraken Black Spiced Rum, mixxit, Molson Coors, Saltire Taverns, Strongbow, the Sunday Mail, Tennent’s, Vicast Ltd and the Wee DRAM. 9
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Whisky
Sean Murphy works at Glasgow’s Pot Still on Hope Street. Whisky is his passion.
It saddens me that when you offer most Scottish people a whisky, they will inevitably knock you back. The reasons are varied. Most people will tell you a story about how they’ve been exposed to a little too much whisky at a Hogmanay party and suffered apocalyptical consequences, resulting in a wish to never drink it again. Others, who have been spared such a process, will offer that it’s an ‘old man’s tipple’, an image that perhaps haunts our national drink, and that it’s not for young people. For me, that’s the fun thing about working in the Pot, when you see people come in expecting old men to be serving them, only to be faced with a young guy with tattoos (me), a pretty girl (Geraldine) and what amounts to a Viking in a kilt (Frank). All of whom are passionately mad about whisky. It’s a nice feeling to circumvent expectations and show that whisky really is for everyone. Better still it’s great to let people feel that there’s no intimidation. No one is going to mock them for their lack of knowledge or experience. In fact, we even have a ‘girl’s only’ whisky club so that women can learn about whisky without being patronised. Working in a whisky bar is great fun, every night is different and in The Pot Still we have customers from all over the world mixing with the locals, both first timers and regulars. It’s a great atmosphere. Most of the people who come are beginners, and so it’s a case of trying to pick out a malt they like, so if they have never tried a whisky before, I’ll usually go with something light such as the triple distilled (which makes a lighter spirit) Auchentoshan or a Glenrothes Select Reserve. There is also The Hive from Wemyss Malts which, as the name suggests, has a sweet honey taste. More experienced drinkers, though, will often ask for something with more flavour, such as a sherry cask. In this case I’d favour one of the stunning new GlenDronach range, or perhaps a richer Mortlach. Often, though, it’s the peat hunters who wish to try something different, Islay is the obvious choice, but it’s fun
to mix it up with a Longrow, the peated expression from Springbank, or a wee Speyside, perhaps a peated Benromach or one of the wonderful new BenRiach range. It’s mostly a case of educating rather than overwhelming, and with anything really, you want people to enjoy the experience. I am often wary of going down conventional routes with whisky, such as using tasting notes as we all have different palates, and there can’t always be uniformity in flavour. A good example of this was when I was doing a tasting with a big group of Spanish students, I said a particular whisky had an aroma of banana, and one guy’s face just fell. I asked him what was wrong and he said he couldn’t smell banana and ‘he must be doing it wrong’. After a little bit of explaining he began to understand that this was a personal thing and there is no right way other than to enjoy it. That goes for how you should drink your whisky as everyone has an opinion, but in the bar, our golden rule is simply ‘anyway you like’. Providing it’s not with coke, as then we may have to kick you out. Some people, though, just want to know what our most expensive malt is -a stunning 57-year-old Strathisla at £54 a dram for those that are curious, or what my personal favourite is. This one is easy Brora (my first love), but others are simply curious to know how many whiskies we have in total – 514 at the last count. Whisky is not something to be afraid of, it’s something to enjoy. That’s why I was so encouraged recently, when I was asked by Dram magazine to take a whisky at their brilliant ‘Make A Date With Whisky’ night (which, by the way, if you haven’t been to you should go, it’s great fun) and found that there were a lot more young people and beginners involved. It’s ok seeing this in the Pot, as there, it’s the norm, but it’s great to see it happening elsewhere too. So, next time you’re out and someone offers you a whisky, why not try it, you never know you might just love it!
Whisky is not something to be afraid of, it’s something to enjoy
Frank Murphy
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WE’RE delighted TO UNVEIL our new PACKAGING DESIGN.
WORTH the WAIT. THE slowest-distilled MALT WHISKY in the WORLD. Take your time, enjoy your dram responsibly. GLENGOYNE.com
Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Strata Burger Challenge
Out and about...
There have certainly been alot of events to keep us on our toes recently from Man v’s Burger challenges to a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and the opening of Zizzi’s. Check out the pictures and see if you can spot yourself.
Zizzi's Opening Night City Cafe Burger Challenge 13
bar browser: The Huxley The Huxley 1 Rutland Street Edinburgh EH1 2AE 0131 229 3402 www.thehuxley.co.uk The Huxley is one of Edinburgh’s newest bars, situated on the ground floor of The Rutland Hotel. It is located in the city’s West End, boasting spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street, The Huxley is the perfect place to relax, refuel and gather with friends. Whether you’re looking to chill out on the comfy leather sofas for an early breakfast, catch the after work buzz for dinner, or grab a nightcap at last orders at the bar, The Huxley offers something for everyone. They are even offering 30% off your next food bill if you sign up to the mailing list..log onto www.thehuxley.co.uk for full details.
What to look out for
n Classic cocktails and quirky beers. n The signature chuck steak
burger and hotdogs.
n The soundtrack – soul, swing
and rock & roll
n Free Wi-Fi 14
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THE
BEN NEVIS
Voted dog fr most i bar of endly th year e
Supporting Traditional Music and the Water of Life Live sessions on Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 9pm
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1147 Argyle Street, Glasgow G3 8TB 0141 576 5204 www.thebennevis.co.uk
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here is no doubt about it, we Scots have a problem with alcohol, but no amount of big brother bashing us on the head is going to cure us. Just the other night I was standing outside a club when a very drunk girl spat at the doorman. She had had so much to drink she kept falling off her heels, she was an embarrassment – not just to herself but to the folk she was with. In fact, you only have to hit any city centre in Scotland at the weekend to see similar incidences. But why do we do it? I am putting my hands up here, I enjoy drinking. Occasionally I have too much, and next day I certainly pay for it. But I tell myself what’s the harm. You’re only young once. But I write about alcohol, and as a result I do hear about all the negatives and the positives too. It’s not drinking alcohol that is the problem… it’s the amount consumed! “One of the most consistent findings in recent nutrition research is that moderate alcohol consumption can improve health and lead to a longer life,” says Eric Rimm, Sc.D., associate professor of epidemiology and nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health. I like that research, but I also like the current advertising which suggests you drop a glass size. Instead of a large glass of wine have a small glass. Never mind lowering your alcohol intake this also has a massive impact on our calorie intake... 170 calories v’s 119! In fact, there are more than 500 calories in a bottle of wine. It has become a party trick of mine telling my pals how many calories there are in their drinks. I tell you,
Words: Penny Devlin 2½ pints of beer or three small glasses of wine. But... and there is a big but... it depends on so many variances… your weight, your height, your alcohol tolerance, how much you have had to eat that day and so on. So really it is best not to drink anything and drive. And if you do drink make sure it is only one. Most people rely on guesswork and good sense, while an irresponsible, lawless minority simply risk it. And is it worth it... NO! If you do drink moderately (ie a glass a day) there are health benefits. Red wine has long been considered the elixir of heart health. Moderate intake of booze can cut your risk of heart disease by up to 40%. Much of alcohol’s benefit to heart health has to do with its ability to raise good (HDL) cholesterol, lower bad (LDL) cholesterol, and reduce blood problems that can lead to clogged arteries (and the heart attacks they cause). And Pinot Noir contains more disease-fighting antioxidants than any other alcoholic drink. Just be sure to put a cork in it after one glass if you’re a woman, two if you’re a man. Dr. David J. Hanson of State University of New York states that people who consume one or two alcoholic drinks, including whisky, daily have a 50% lower chance of having a stroke or developing dementia in old age. This moderate amount of drinking can also decrease the chance of developing diabetes by 30 to 40%. These benefits come from alcohol’s ability to increase good cholesterol and decrease blood clots. So perhaps everything in moderation, including alcohol, is the way ahead... it’s not just good for your wallet it’s good for your weight too. But that doesn’t mean to say you can’t enjoy a trip to the bar, just don’t drink so much that you will be tripping out of it!
To drink or not to drink... calories are more of a deterrent than anything. Even guys are surprised when you tell them there is 296 calories in a pint of Stella compared to 193 in a pint of Foster’s. Therefore it is hardly surprising that some are suggesting that the powers that be put calories on drinks… mind you that won’t help when you are in the pub. But calories aside – do you know how many units are in your favourite drinks? In fact, do you know what a unit is? And do you know how much you can drink before going over the drink-drive limit? I can honestly say that none of my friends know the answers to these questions... and quite frankly if it wasn’t for the fact that it’s my job, I am sure I wouldn’t either. For your info... one unit is 10ml of pure alcohol and the recommended daily guideline for men is 3-4 units and for the ladies 2-3 units. However, these guidelines were made up 20 years ago (that’s right, made up, and that alone beggars belief – a whole alcohol health strategy based around made-up figures). Now, the government has decided to revise them. You never know the guidelines might go up, but don’t hold your breath. But I digress back to units - a small glass of wine (175ml) with an alcohol strength of 13% abv would put a female over her daily limit. And when it comes to drink-driving - in the UK, the alcohol limit for drivers is 80mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood, 35mg per 100ml of breath or 107mg per 100ml of urine. Double dutch? Maybe that’s why so many people don’t have a clue what the UK legal drink drive limit translates into in terms of the types and quantity of drinks. But roughly this equates to 3½ measures (35ml vodka),
So how many calories are in your favourite drinks? Most spirits including tequila, rum, vodka, gin and whisky have in the region of 54 calories with a 25ml measure equating to one unit. A 25ml shot of JAGERMEISTER would have 0.9 units but 63 calories
A pint of MAGNERS would account for 2.6 units and 233 calories A small glass of MOET CHAMPAGNE 1 x 125ml = 1.5 units, 95 calories Large glass 250ml of JACOBS CREEK SHIRAZ ROSE - 3.3 units, 178 calories Standard glass 175ml OF JACOBS CREEK SHIRAZ ROSE - 2.3 units, 124 calories A pint of Tennent’s 2.3 units – 188 calories. 17
Ed Reid This month, Repertoire caught up with the fabulous Edward Reid, who is better known for his appearance on Britain’s Got Talent two years back, when he sang his nursery rhyme medley to the tune of Run by Leona Lewis. In just three days he had 1 million YouTube hits and that quickly rose to 7 million. These days you will find Edward performing his cabaret show all over Britain, but we managed to grab him for a coffee and a cake in The Hidden Tearoom in Finnieston to catch up on all the happenings in Edward Land!
Was it always your dream to be a singer? No, actually, it took me a while to realise I had a voice, and I lacked confidence at first. One of my first jobs was working in a day centre with people who had profound learning disabilities. One day a member of staff heard me sing and told me I had a nice voice. Lucky for me he also had a recording studio for me to practice in. I then started getting singing lessons, and joined an Amateur Theatre Company, and I got one of the lead roles in Hello Dolly. I remember my first night on stage thinking I’m giving up my job. So I did, and went to Motherwell College to study Musical Theatre. After college I replied to an advert in Stage magazine and got a job performing in Spain for six months for Thomson Gold Hotels. That then led to working on a cruise ship and travelling all around the world. And then, of course, I applied for Britain’s Got Talent.
What made you decide to apply for the show? It was actually my friend Liz who applied for me, but I decided I wasn’t going. Then one day I was out running (which was a rarity) and my phone rang and I remember dying to answer and say, “sorry, I can’t talk, I’m out running” but it was Britain’s Got Talent. The audition was then in June 2010. I didn’t even think I’d get through but I made it all the way to the semi-finals. My video on You Tube ended up getting around 7 million hits, I thought it was crazy. But the whole experience was amazing, I’m so thankful.
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Words: Lynn Kelly
Edward’s got talen Where did the nursery rhyme idea come from? Before the show I had been working with 17-year-old twins who had autism. One day they were making sounds like Old Macdonald had a farm, but the rule was I wasn’t allowed to teach them that song because they were adults. So I tried to make it more age appropriate, and created a new version around a pop song. It snowballed from there really. I had been singing that song for years
before Britain’s Got Talent and it was perfect for me to audition with because I wanted to stand out. I didn’t just want to be another guy who could sing, I wanted to grab their attention. I thought I would have been buzzed off within a few seconds but they loved it. No regrets there.
Who are you biggest influences and how do they shape your performance? All the big divas and soul singers, Diana Ross, Donna Summer,
and clothes. I will search images on Google from Tom Ford, then go to a charity shop and recreate it. I’m also trying to be healthier and keep fit. In fact, this morning I was at a Bikram yoga class, and I’ve started to go out running more. I’ve had two years of events with lots of free drink to make amends for. After the show I thought ‘this is great, free champagne’. I mean, I’m from Coatbridge, so you just can’t be knocking back free drink. I’ve learned though... and now prefer a gin and soda.
Any stand out moments? One of my favourite gigs was a ladies lunch at 29 in Glasgow. I remember singing away to Proud Mary and spotting Michelle Mone in the audience, and the next thing I knew, two of the Nolan sisters had become my backing dancers. That was surreal. Another time I was doing a gig with Barbara Windsor, and suddenly I see her on the dance floor strutting away to one of my songs. I just remember thinking, Oh my God! Peggy Mitchell is here!
s nt Barbara Streisand, I could go on and on. I love the pain in the voice, the inspiration, the glamour and the front, that they would triumph, over anything. I think there is a part in everyone that wants that. That’s why when I perform I want my show to be all about love and fabulousness. I hope the lyrics fall on top of people rather than them just hearing the music. My motivation is to make people feel good. I like to shape the cabaret around the audience. The first act is usually me singing to them, and
What’s next in Edward Land then?
by the second act I get everyone on their feet dancing.
My goal this year is to work on a new show altogether. I want to strip myself back and concentrate on my voice and the music. I’m looking for a pianist to collaborate with and work on new arrangements. I would like to make my own music too, because I always try and put my own interpretation into other songs. That would be my dream for 2013. I want to put myself on the map so people can hear Edward stripped back.
What do you like doing in your down time?
I hear you also get a chance now to do your bit for charity?
I do love my fashion and styling my show outfits. I usually go to the Forge Market and shop at a wee material stall there. Unfortunately, I don’t have the budget of Lady Gaga, so I improvise. I bought a strip of diamantes the other day so I’m blinging everything I can get my hands on. I love the 50s look and customise my own costumes
Yes. I quite often do charity gigs and I love being a part of that. I’m also doing Strictly Come Dancing for charity, so make sure you text ‘dance’ to 70100! It’s £1 a text and all money goes towards the Princess of Wales Hospice. You can follow all my activities at www.edwardland.co.uk. 19
NEXT Yellow Fisherman Jacket £65 Blue Geo Print T-shirt £16 Cobalt Chinos £20 Black Sunglasses £13
Label Lab at House of Fraser Dip-dye top £45 Jacket £155 Skinny jeans £60
NEXT Ochre Cardigan £30 Khaki Animal T-shirt £16 Chinos £28, Watch £25 Mesh Pumps £25, Sunglasses £16 20
Sprin
Tre
ng
ends
Next Petites Dress £65 Shoes £36
Next Petites Feather Print Dress £45
Debenhams (L-R) J JEANS by JASPER CONRAN Jacket £70 Cardigan £65 Shirt £35 Jeans £40 Shoes £60 J JEANS by JASPER CONRAN Jacket £75 Polo £25 Chinos £35 Hat £20 Bag £35 Shoes £55
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The Buzz on Bath Street Ten years ago, I would never have thought of heading to Bath Street for a night out. In those days it was Sauchiehall Street all the way… or Ashton Lane if it was pay weekend. However, a decade later, Bath Street seems to be where it’s at, especially with so many forward-thinking bars opening
Words: Jason Caddy
in the last few years. Whether it’s live music you’re after, cocktails, drink tastings, clubbing or some mean pub grub, Bath Street caters for everyone. Here are some of the hotspots that are definitely worth a look.
Bunker Bar Restaurant - 193-199 Bath Street • Glasgow • G2 4HU • Tel 0141 229 1427 It’s hard to imagine a Bunker-less Bath Street. Bunker has occupied that fantastic corner basement spot at 193-199 Bath Street for ten years, and remains one of its leading lights. It’s also easily one of the street’s biggest bars, so it is ideal for big groups of students who don’t fancy slumming it in the student union, but want to shoot a game of pool and soak up a fun atmosphere nonetheless. This is a kind of one-stop venue, as there’s food and drink to suit every taste and pocket, which means the bar’s reach extends beyond students to 20-and-30-somethings and everything above, particularly on weekday afternoons. If you’ve pushed the boat out a bit too far at the weekend, then the Monday Munchies menu is heaven-sent. Served every Monday from 12noon-9pm, every dish is a fiver, or you can plump for two starters and a dessert for the same price. During the rest of the week, its creative touches like the haggis stack starter/main (haggis, neeps, tatties with Glayva cream and crispy leeks, £4.50/£8.50) that ticks another box for Bunker. And we’ve also got to mention that the bar is open until 3am Fridays and Saturdays. A cocktail masterclass is also on offer Thursdays and Sundays, at £20 per person, with a glass of Prosecco on arrival. Visit www.thebunkerbar.com
The Butterfly and The Pig - 153 Bath Street, Glasgow T: 0141 221 7711 Buff Club - 142 Bath Lane, Glasgow T: 0141 248 1777 The Butterfly and The Pig is one of Bath Street’s Grand Dames. This basement bar has all the familiar comforts of your living/dining room with vintage chic furniture and soft lighting making it a real home from home. What bar with a name like this wouldn’t be quirky? This makes it a terrific place to take a melting pot of people, and the menu also caters for a wide variety of tastes. The Butterfly and Piglet burger presses all the right buttons, as does the Cilla Black pudding with a quail’s egg on top, and at around a fiver a dish, you get a lot of bang for your buck. The menu does tend to vary on a daily basis as ingredients are all sourced locally. You can also eat to the beat thanks to a packed roster of live music that runs the gamut from boogie, blues and jazz to Easy Orchestra. For those who want a bit of a change of scene, the newly opened Buff Low Cafe has a bit of a speakeasy vibe to it, and is proving to be a big hit. The Buff Club upstairs, (opens every night apart from Wed and Sun) offers free entry before 10pm, and this includes the Buff Low Cafe, as this becomes part of the club after 11pm. For all the most up-to-date news and info visit www.thebutterflyandthepig.com 22
Kuta - 104 Bath Street, Glasgow T: 0141 332 6678
The Good Spirits Company - 23 Bath Street Glasgow T: 141 258 8427
Kuta is Bath Street’s own little slice of Bali, as it’s named after a holiday destination on the island. This is another one of Bath Street’s basement gems, located at number 104, and it’s big on cocktails, with no less than 20 on offer. The Raspberry Cosmo is a particular favourite among the regulars. Cocktails are £3.50 Thursday through Sunday, and are less than a fiver at weekends. The bar is open daily from noon until 1am, and food is served in the evening until about 9pm, with popular starters like chicken wings, followed by upmarket pub grub like Fish and Chips and Carbonara
For something a wee bit different, why not take yourself and some friends along to The Good Spirits Co. at 23 Bath Street? Informal whisky tastings are one of their specialities. The purpose-built tasting room accommodates up to 30 people, and there’s also provision for hen and stag parties, birthdays…. you name it. You can even create a regular tasting event of your very own, with a minimum of 10 like-minded folk. Tastings usually come in at around £20 per person, and places fill up pretty quickly, so don’t drag your feet. All-rounders Mark, Matthew and Shane specialise in whisky, gin, bourbon, brandy, liqueurs, champagne and craft beers. In fact, this independent spirits specialist boasts everything but wine. Whisky lovers will be pleased to hear that they stocks their own octave barrel of maturing whisky which is for sale in 20cl bottles. If you’re more of a coffee and chocolate person then this is also the place to come for a locally sourced wee treat. Browse your options at www.the goodspiritsco.com
for those wanting something more filling. With all starters priced at less than a fiver, and mains coming in at under a tenner, you’d be mad not to. Lunch is served from 12pm until 4pm and one of Kuta’s most popular bites are the selection of five different wraps, plus soup of the day, for only a fiver. Friday and Saturdays always promise a DJ from 8pm onwards. Looking for a party venue? The mezzanine is available for hire, and if you’re looking to mix things up a bit, why not investigate Kuta’s Cocktail Masterclasses. They cater for between 4 and 20 people, costs £15 per person, and that includes a sharing platter too. You can find out more at www.kutabathstreet.co.uk
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The Buzz on Bath Street Palomino Bath Street - 207 Bath Street, Glasgow T: 0141 221 9444 The Bath Street Palomino might be the new name for the Bath Street Pony, but it’s still one of the best bars to back. Everything else remains reassuringly the same at 207 Bath Street, and just as slick, if not slicker. It picked up Kraken Rum’s Cocktail Bar of the Year accolade award in 2011, and since then, the bar has garnered a fantastic reputation for both food and cocktails. If you’re looking for a ribticklingly good pre-theatre ahead of taking in one of this year’s turns at the Glasgow Comedy Festival (14-31March), then this is the perfect pitstop. Highlights include ribs and slider burgers, making up just a tiny part of a beefed up meat offering for you to agonise over, and a cheeky cocktail won’t break the bank either, with promotions seven days a week. It’s also the place to come for a craft beer, with Samuel Adams on draught. Or, if you want a breather from shopping and somewhere to park all those bags for an hour or so, at £9.95 for a two course lunch, you can’t go far wrong, plus you can afford to resume your shopping. The Bath Street Palomino is also right up your street if you don’t rise until after lunch at the weekend, and find yourself looking for a distraction into the wee small hours. It’s licensed until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays, with either a resident DJ or live music, plus there’s a function space available for hire. For more information visit www.bathstreetpalomino.co.uk
One To One - 185a Bath Street Glasgow T: 0141 221 5121 Inverarity One-to-One is a drink’s lover’s paradise of a shop with over 800 different wines, red, white and rose, from around the globe. With 65 different whiskies to choose from, and 25 gins, 17 tequilas, six cognacs and a number of other spirits including rum and apple brandy, there’s enough on offer to keep everybody’s tastebuds happy. You can sample the goods every week with tastings that run the
gamut, and they are fun, thanks to Smiley Pete, who’s also the wine writer for the Sunday Herald, and Andy Bell, who bills himself as Islay boy, whisky boy, wine boy… despite being 32. Together they make a knowledgable and entertaining team, and as one Yelp reviewer put it, “These guys don’t do tastings, they OWN tastings.”
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The Buff Low cafe sits on the ground floor of the Buff Club on Bath Lane Glasgow. Inspired by 1920s New Orleans, we put an American twist in everything we do here. From live music nights inspired by US blues musicians, to sporting nights where we show live football (soccer), NFL, NBA and pretty much every other sporting event you can think of. If you get hungry, in true speakeasy style we serve Cajun inspired bites in buckets to share until midnight. We also take booth reservations for bigger groups, and if you’re in before 10.30pm you will get free entry to The Buff Club. • Opening hours Mon-Fri 5pm to 3am and Sat-Sun 1pm to 3am • Extensive range of all spirits and beers • Live music - Monday/Thursday/Saturday • DJs - 7 nights a week • Free Wifi 142 Bath Lane Glasgow G2 4SQ || Tel: 0141 248 1777 www.thebuffclub.com || guestlist@thebuffclub.com
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Scottish Lice Trade Awards
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ww
ensed s 2013 Do you have a favourite new bar, rate a family-friendly pub, cocktail bar or believe there is a bar out there that excels when it comes to customer service? If so, let us know by emailing production@mediaworldltd.com Benromach Award For Success BII Scotland Customer Service Award 2013 Critics’ Choice Award Dog Friendly Pub of the Year Passion For Wine Award Kopparberg Independent Bar of the Year Kraken Black Spiced Rum Cocktail Bar of the Year Molson Coors Champion Beer Pub of Scotland New Bar of the Year Saltire Taverns Sales Rep of the Year Strongbow Manager of the Year Sunday Mail Centenary Fund Family Pub of the Year Sunday Mail Pub of the Year Tennent’s Quality Award Independent Hotel of the Year Wee DRAM Whisky Bar of the Year
ww.dramscotland.co.uk
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Harlem Shake - the latest craze Gangnam Style is so last season now there’s a new dance craze breaking out all over the world called The Harlem Shake. If you’re reading this thinking, what? It’s a dance that originated on the net where a group of people perform crazy dance moves to a tune called The Harlem Shake. It can take place in any environment, like an office or a club, and everybody involved goes about
their normal business apart from a lone dancer, typically masked and costumed, who is initially ignored by the others. As the beat kicks in, the rest of the company instantly switch to wearing equally as crazy costumes, and join in the dancing. Anything goes. They can all be viewed on YouTube.
We’ve compiled Scotland’s top ten Harlem Shakes below: Campus in Glasgow is one of the slickest. A lone dancer wearing the bar’s familiar mouse head mascot on top of a table kicks things off, before being joined by a throng of clubbers. Look out for the topless man on the far right of the screen conducting the dance..
Edinburgh’s Barony Bar is a small scale Shake, but it’s still big on laughs. A human cat person kicks things off by dancing on top of the bar, with a handful of drinkers. She’s then in a mass of dancing. Look out for her friend in the motorcycle crash helmet. Very funny.
Someones’s sweeping the dance floor of Glasgow’s Garage night club while a lone dancer throws some shapes in front of an oblivious DJ. He’s then joined by some friends - including Big Bird from Sesame Street - and a packed dance floor of clubbers. This must be one of Scotland’s biggest Shakes.
Monday morning meetings at the offices of Real Radio Scotland will never be the same again. Its Harlem Shake takes place in the board room, with a bored looking table of people ignoring the dancing alien. Look out for the crash helmet wearer, bouncing on a space hopper on top of the table.
The reach of this craze has even touched Scotland’s quieter corners. The good people of Loch Leven’s Larder in Kinross have put together a cracker. Sweeping shots of the countryside cut to a dancing cow (not a real one) who is then joined by Kate, Wills and a body popper.
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The University of Edinburgh swim team’s effort is terrific. The weights room at the gym is the location and a hoovering dog, and wriggly human worm (in a sleeping bag) and a boxing pig are its stars.
Dundee FC have also got in on the act, with the players and its lion mascot (Terry the Terror) dancing alongside a very bizarre roll call of players, including one in a faceless, orange lycra head-to-toe body suit, on a trampoline with a colleague lying down between his legs, holding a football to cover the other’s dignity.
George Square provides a great Harlem Shake backdrop with a dancing banana, Freddie Kruger - you name it. In fact, there are so many costumes in this one that you’ll see a new character on every view.
Some people think that students live in their pyjamas. This has been reflected in the Strathclyde University Student Union’s version, with cartoon characters Bananas in Pyjamas taking centre stage, along with what we think, is a large sperm. See what you think...
The Edinburgh University student residents of Turner House have put together a very unique Shake. In amongst all the chaos is a motionless character wearing another head-to-toe faceless lycra body suit, complete with pointy hat. Someone else is doing the splits standing on their head. Surreal at its best.
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It’s nearly Easter so why not splash out on one of the cool items below which are entirely inkeeping with the season.
Spring
Greens
PAPERCHASE Rosa Frame 3.5x5” £8
NEXT Good Day Sunshine Cushion £14
NEXT Esher Pendant Light £75 DEBENHAMS ‘picolino’ lime barbecue £65
RIVER ISLAND Urban bag £30 30
DEBENHAMS Melemine Parrot plate £3.50
DEBENHAMS Red Herring Men’s Watch £20.00
Scotland’s first TV channel for pubs, bars and clubs is now live! Check it out at www.barandpub.tv If you have any videos taken in your local, why not email them to us at production@mediaworldltd.com (remember, keep them clean!)
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Dining Out Blue Goose, 27 Lanark Road, Edinburgh EH14 1TG 0131 629 4143, www.thebluegoosecountrypub.co.uk The Blue Goose offers inventive twists on Scottish cuisine and Spanish tapas made from fresh local produce. The relaxed surroundings, including a log fire, create the perfect environment for lunch or dinner. After a long walk along the banks of Leith you can pop in and enjoy some delicious food, and there will be water for your dog too. Yes, the Blue Goose is dog friendly, and has a huge beer garden for the warmer months. There is a great selection of drinks including wine and real ale. Keep your eyes peeled for the new larger food menu which is launching this month. Log onto www.thebluegoosecountrypub.co.uk for full menu details.
Gamba, 225 West George St, Glasgow G2 2ND 0141 572 0899, www.gamba.co.uk
Facebook.com/gambaglasgow @Gamba_Glasgow
Gamba is known as Glasgow’s best seafood restaurant. It is a stylish, award-winning two AA rosette relaxed basement venue set in the heart of the city centre. Head chef and owner Derek Marshall is on hand to ensure that his innovative dishes are accessible for all, and expertly cooked to offer an extraordinary and memorable dining experience. What’s more Gamba is passionate about sourcing and delivering the best produce and fish from sustainable stocks. Expect to find some of Scotland’s best seafood on the regularly updated menu including locally-sourced Isle of Gigha halibut, Scottish lobster and Scottish smoked salmon from Marrbury.
Kyloe Restaurant & Grill, 1-3 Rutland Street, Edinburgh EH1 2AE 0131 229 3402, www.kyloerestaurant.com Kyloe, Edinburgh’s premier gourmet steak restaurant and grill, can be found in Edinburgh’s West End boasting enviable views of Edinburgh Castle. The name Kyloe, an old Scots word for Highland beef cattle, was chosen for the restaurant as it represents the strength and versatility of Scottish beef produce. Kyloe uses cuts from pedigree Aberdeen Angus - supplied by some of Scotland’s top farms and butchers - to bring customers the best possible steak experience. Using a selection of traditional cuts, along with some more unusual cuts chosen for their texture and flavour, Kyloe offers an innovative Grill Menu. This is complemented by the robust a la carte menu which features Scottish seasonal produce, responsibly sourced and simply prepared, to create a series of compelling dishes, including a tasty shellfish section.
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The Brass Monkey is a modern local not far from the SECC and Glasgow’s West End. You’re spoilt for choice here with over 300 spirits on the back bar including Ketel One, Tanquery Gin and Pampero Rum, 11 draught beers, classic cocktails and an ever changing selection of craft beers from around the world. We have also just launched a new pizza menu which are all made fresh on the premises. • DJs Friday & Saturday nights • Quiz on a Thursday with cash prizes • Live sports in HD • New beer garden 1004 Argyle Street Glasgow G3 8LU | T: 0141 243 2170 33 E: info@thebrassmonkeyglasgow.co.uk | www.thebrassmonkeyglasgow.co.uk
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Lynn s Corner Cheese Strike This month, I have been on a bit of a health kick, and cut out cheese and bread from my diet. Those who know me will appreciate how big a feat this is, and I am realising how much cheese I actually eat, or did eat! At first it was just an experiment to try and feel healthier but I can see such an improvement in my skin already, so I’m sticking to it. I’m not becoming cheese total however, but I’m improving on my usual two blocks a week… and no I’m not exaggerating. Let’s see if I can stick to it.
Yes! to Si!
I went along to newly opened Si! in Irvine last month and all I can say is wow! This place is breath taking. We were treated to a lovely meal, and got a tour of the huge building which is over two floors. Downstairs, has a Mediterranean feel to it which later transforms into a late night bar equipped with a DJ and dance floor. Upstairs, it’s Italian all the way in a restaurant that wouldn’t look out of place in top class hotel. If you fancy a trip out of the city centre I would strongly recommend it. They are even running Si! taxis at reduced rates, so you can ditch the car and make a night of it.
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Bar of Choice A bar in G’town that is really hitting the spot with me is The Richmond, just off Gibson Street. It has a bit of everything I love, good wine, great service and there is always a real buzz about the place. It’s definitely a good bar to start the night in, and although I’ve not tried the food yet, I’ve heard good reports. I’ve popped in a few times to kick start a night out, and it’s especially handy if you’re heading to the Stand. Here’s to another great bar for Glasgow’s West End.
Shaking up the Office Is it just me or is this Harlem Shake phenomenon everywhere at the moment? I know there are loads on YouTube, but I’m seeing more companies in Glasgow and Edinburgh uploading their own take on the shake! I have been trying to convince the guys in the office to join in and film our own… but so far no shake. I mean we only have our TV platform barandpub.tv at our disposal! Leave it with me... we may have a Mediaworld Ltd Harlem Shake online yet.
I’m a lady, don’t you know No more Miss Kelly for me anymore. I’ll have you know it’s now Lady Kelly, and I have the paperwork to prove it. Yes I’m now the owner of a plot of land on the Kincavel Estate in Scotland, which officially makes me a Lady. This was a gift and all a bit of fun (the land is no more than a foot wide) but legally I can take on the term Lady, which I think is just brilliant. The paperwork is drawn up by a lawyer and I can legally change my title to Lady on all my documents. I’m thinking the passport will be first on the list for some complimentary upgrades.
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