i-on Edinburgh | December 2015

SCOTLAND’S LARGEST LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

E D I N B U R G H

SOCIAL BUTTERFLY Network like a pro STATESIDE The allure of NYC SKY HIGH DINING Gourmet delights WIN… a Harvey Nichols hamper

Let the fun begin Games for grown-ups

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CONTENTS

Issue 120 December 2015

61

ON THE COVER

34

38

78

92

Social Butterfly Network like a pro Let the Fun Begin Games for grown-ups Stateside The allure of NYC Sky High Dining Foodie delights

NEWS AND VIEWS

08

46 67 82 97

i-on lifestyle Inspiration for December Fashion Health and Beauty Homes and Interiors Food Files

REGULARS

06 WIN… a Harvey Nichols hamper 12 Talking About

Star Wars: The Force Awakens 20 Music

Hogmanay 2016 27 My i-on Edinburgh

Julia Bone 28 i-on People

Style. Music. Design.

57 Men’s Fashion 88 Iconic Edinburgh

Cumberland Street 94 Lunch at… Contini Cannonbal 100 Palate Pleasers

What to eat this season 102 Drink Talk 104 Take Three

Cocktail hour 106 At the Back

20

92

04 | introduction

DID YOU KNOW...?

Celebrating Christmas was once banned in Scotland and Christmas Day itself wasn’t officially recognised as a public holiday until 1958. This goes someway to explaining the popularity of Hogmanay although we suspect bringing in the bells with a dram also helped.

ionedinburgh ionedinburgh ion_magazine ion_magazine Cover photo: photography and make-up: Jodie Mann; model: Sammy Brown; hair stylist: Jenn Mathieson, nail artist: Sammy Grant.

i-on Edinburgh this month Whether you’re planning a festive event or want to make the most of schmoozing during the party season, we’ve got it covered this month. Turn to page 18 for expert party planning tips from Core Event Services and learn how to network like a pro on page 34.

If you’re still in a quandary about what to do on Hogmanay, on page 20 Dave Pollock gives us the lowdown on the bands coming to town. For those of you that still feel like a big kid, turn to page 38 and embrace your inner child with Lego, colouring in and roller skating. Ensuring you stay cosy and chic, our fashion story looks to big knits (p46). In case you’re looking for a winter escape, we tell you why New York should be on your hit list on page 78.

Congratulations to last month’s winner Karen Kennedy who won a £500 shopping spree at Covet. For a chance to win a Harvey Nichols festive hamper, turn to page 06.

Until next year, and on behalf of team i-on, Merry Christmas!

Published by Treacle Productions Ltd, Suite 9, 2 Commercial Street, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH6 6JA Tel: +44 (0)131 555 4126, Email info@ionmagazine.co.uk, www.ionmagazine.co.uk Editorial and Distribution Director Laura Cully, Sales and Finance Director Jo Morris, Design Paul Dickson, Editor Nicky Howden, Features Editor Dean Newton, Administration and Finance Manager Patricia Sjoberg, Account Director Amy Falconer, Account Executive Nicola Drake, Head of Creative Solutions and Brand Development Zoe Schmid, Digital Editorial Manager Rebecca McCosh, Main Photographer Susie Lowe, Contributing Photographers Hamish Campbell, Jodie Mann, Contributors Gemma Haigh, David Hicks, David Pollock, Ian Tod All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at time of going to press but are subject to change. i-on magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. i-on magazine takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication. ©Treacle Productions Ltd

A TRUE

WALDORF WINTER

– FESTIVE SEASON 2015 – When you imagine your perfect Christmas and New Year, what do you see?

A festive table filled with a traditional roast turkey and crackling log fires or a winter’s tale filled with champagne and joyful reunions with family and friends?

Whatever your story we will bring it to life.

Christmas Day An indulgent traditional meal is the heart of every Christmas tale. Gather all the family for an enchanting celebration in our Castle Suite and enjoy the very best of traditional Scottish cuisine, with Edinburgh Castle as your backdrop whilst beautiful Christmas melodies play in the background and Father Christmas adds extra sparkles.

For £90 per person Or add a touch of decadence to your Christmas celebrations with a 4-course festive dinner at our award winning restaurants, operated by the Michelin-starred Galvin brothers.

Galvin Brasserie de Luxe for £120 per person The Pompadour by Galvin for £195 per person

Hogmanay Dinner As midnight approaches and the past year come to a close, it’s time to think about the New Year and all the resolutions we hope to achieve. With perfect views of the award winning fireworks at Edinburgh Castle, our venues are the place to be when you welcome 2016. Join our Hogmanay Ball with a lavish menu, live band, Ceilidh dancing and DJ. For £250 per person.

Or indulge in an unforgettable menu concocted by Chris and Jeff Galvin and start the New Year in style.

Galvin Brasserie de Luxe for £110 per person The Pompadour by Galvin for £225 per person

Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2AB Tel. +44 (0) 131 222 8888 Email: Guest_Caledonian@waldorfastoria.com W. waldorfastoriaedinburgh.com

06 | i-on prizes

a Christmas hamper from Harvey Nichols

W

hether you’re entertaining the masses or have an intimate Christmas dinner for two on the cards, Harvey Nichols has got it covered with its delicious range of iconic food and wine hampers. From the treasure trove of the Fancy Trimmings hamper to The Connoisseur Wine Box showcasing the finest wines around; each hamper tells a seasonal tale, with a veritable feast of food and beverages nestled within. Contemporary with a playful twist, they’re a great gift for loved ones or an even better self-indulgent treat.

Harvey Nichols, 30-34 St Andrew Sq, EH2 2AD, Tel: 0131 524 8340, www.harveynichols.com

THE PRIZE i-on has teamed up with Harvey Nichols to offer one reader the chance to win a delicious Christmas hamper worth £575. The Festive Feast includes everything from Marc de Champagne Truffles, mulled wine and Christmas cake to chocolate liqueur, Champagne, fine wines, napkin rings and place name cards.

TO ENTER For a chance to win, visit www.ionmagazine.co.uk by 18 December 2015. The winner will be notified by email and announced in the January issue of i-on magazine.

Subscribe to the i-on weekly newsletter at www.ionmagazine.co.uk for more exclusive prizes.

Terms and conditions: The prize is non-refundable, cannot be replaced if lost or stolen and no cash alternative will be offered. The Festive Feast Hamper must be collected from Harvey Nichols Edinburgh on an agreed date. The hamper includes alcohol so the winner must be over 18. Winner must present proof of win when collecting and collect before 23 December 2015.

section | 7

I-ON

LIFESTYLE

From places to visit to art to admire, we bring you a selection of highlights the city has to offer this month.

FESTIVE GETAWAY If you can’t be bothered with all the work of Christmas, let Gleneagles take care of everything. Its magical festive programme is extensive, covering everything from a cinema to ice rink, pottery classes, shooting, fireworks, dancing lessons, a ceilidh and, of course, Santa himself. The package for 24-26 Dec (inclusive) includes all food and entertainment and an extra nights’ bed and breakfast on the 23rd or 27th. It costs £3,565 per room. For more information visit www.gleneagles.com.

M8 ADVENTURE

If a trip to Glasgow is on the cards and you fancy a stay over too, try the city’s latest hotel, ibis Styles Glasgow Centre George Square. A £7million refurbishment has transformed the formerly vacant Telfer Building on Miller Street into a vibrant, funky, contemporary hotel full of Glaswegian humour. To book visit www.ibis.com.

ONE TO WATCH For some good old belly laughs, Christmas with the Coopers may just be the answer. With an all-star cast including John Goodman, Olivia Wilde and Diane Keaton, it’s the classic Christmas movie plot; four generations of the Cooper clan get together for some reluctant festive family bonding with hilarious, disastrous and heartwarming consequences. In cinemas now.

i-on lifestyle | 09

ARTS AND CRAFTS Coburg House in Leith is home to painters, printmakers, illustrators, sign writers, jewellers, textiles artists, ceramicists, an architect and a garden designer.

What better place, then, to find some unusual festive gifts? Its Christmas open studio event runs from 04–06 December and there will be over 60 exhibitors. For more information visit www.coburghouseartstudios.co.uk.

BAG FOR LIFE From New York to Hong Kong and Edinburgh, we love Julia Gash’s cityscape designs. Hand printed and illustrated, this ethical and fair trade made canvas tote bag costs just £12.99 at Paper Tiger, 8 Stafford St, EH3 7AU, Tel: 0131 226 2390, www.papertiger.co.uk and www.madebytalented.com.

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i-on lifestyle | 11

DATE FOR THE DIARY The UK’s biggest Christmas drive-in cinema is coming to the Royal Highland Centre from 19 - 23 December. With the world’s biggest outdoor screen, the drive-in theatre will be showing festive films including Elf, Frozen, Miracle on 34th Street and Die Hard. Just park up, tune your car radio into their special FM radio broadcast for the audio and enjoy.

Tickets cost £26 per car. www.christmasmovies.co.uk

HOME BEFORE MIDNIGHT

Made famous by Disney, the original story of Cinderella dates back to the 17th century in Napoli. This month though, the timeless rags-to-riches story is retold in a dazzling new rendition by Scottish Ballet. Set to Prokofiev’s iconic score, performed by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, it features luxurious costumes and extravagant sets at the Festival Theatre from 05 - 31 December. Tickets from £13.50 - £42.50 at www.edtheatres.com.

Chop Down by Tracey Smith

FRAMED Ever wanted to be an illustrator? Picture Hooks, a mentoring scheme and education programme set up to encourage new Scottish illustrators, might just be the helping hand you need. Enjoy the power of visual storytelling and be inspired by the works of the mentors and mentees at their exhibition in the Scottish National Gallery. Runs until 26 February 2016. www.picturehooks.org.uk.

12 | features

TALKING ABOUT

Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Star Wars? You’re going back a bit aren’t you?

Unless you’ve been living on another planet you must’ve heard about the most anticipated movie release of the year hitting cinemas this month. The Force Awakens is the first film in the Star Wars sequel trilogy and if its impressive cast list doesn’t make you want to dust off those Lightsabers, I’m pretty sure the special effects will.

Sounds interesting. Tell me more.

Unsurprisingly, as with all Star Wars releases, the plot has been shrouded in secrecy but we do know that Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher will be reprising their iconic roles. J.J. Abrams is in the director’s chair and as his past work has proved, he is the master of revitalising classic sci-fi franchises.

So why release it now?

A long, long time ago, in a galaxy not so far away, George Lucas was the king of adventure sci-fi thanks to Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo and their battles against the evil empire. Then the lacklustre prequels came along, creating a massive disturbance in the Force. And just when it seemed we were all ready to move on with our lives, in 2012 Disney purchased Lucasfilm, effectively giving the series a rebirth, with a third trilogy of films set approximately 30 years after the events of Return of the Jedi.

Will all the original characters be back?

There should be a good mix. Favourites like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, C-3PO and R2-D2 will be back. The story will also introduce three new leads. All in all, with a promising cast featuring Andy Serkis, Adam Driver, Max Von Sydow, Oscar Isaac and Lupita Nyong’o, the Force should be strong in this one.

What you’re saying is I need to go see it?

You got it. We’re expecting sci-fi entertainment at its very best and you don’t have to wait long to see it. The Force Awakens will be coming to a galaxy… sorry, screen near you from 18 December.

section | 15

Gleneagles Indoor Tennis

PURVEYOR OF FINE DOG GOODS

Whatever the weather, rain won’t stop play on our 4 new indoor tennis courts. Choose to play on a “Pay & Play” basis, no membership required, or enjoy lessons and programmes for all ages and abilities from our expert coaching team.

Open 9am – 8.30pm daily with complimentary parking and new changing facilities.

To book Pay & Play from £18 per session, or for more information on all we offer, see: gleneagles.com/tennis

LILY’S KITCHEN CHARLEY CHAU MUTTS & HOUNDS DANISH DESIGN HARRY’S TREATS DOGROBES DITSY PET HOUSE OF PAWS RUFFWEAR 43 Roseburn Terrace EH12 5NQ 0131 467 6834 www.thehouseofhound.co.uk

i-on lifestyle | 17

MUSIC HIGHLIGHTS Gemma Haigh gives us the lowdown

HOT SINCE 82 @ THE LIQUID ROOM

POTS AND PANS Grant McCaig is showcasing an exploration of his ground breaking pieces of jewellery and metalwork at The Scottish Gallery this month. The award-winning artist has studied goldsmithing, silversmithing, metalwork and jewellery at Glasgow College of Art and the Royal College of Art in London. Forging Ahead runs until 23 December.

The Scottish Gallery, 16 Dundas St, EH3 6HZ, Tel: 0131 558 1200, www.scottish-gallery.co.uk.

Leeds based DJ and producer Hot Since 82 (pictured) heads to town for another instalment of Knee Deep following last year’s success. He’ll be joined by Denney and Maxxi Soundsystem for this Nightvision and Snowbombing Festival special. Doors 9pm, tickets £17.50.

SAT 12 DEC

THE CHARLATANS @ USHER HALL Bursting onto the Britpop scene with their alternative indie sounds back in the early 90s, The Charlatans rose to fame with catchy tracks such as Then and The Only One I Know. Touring in support of their 12th album, Modern Nature (released 26 January), support comes from Frankie & The Heartstrings. Doors 7pm, tickets £27.50.

MON 14 DEC

LADIES ON ROTATION & SOUNDS OF SOUL @ THE SKY BAR The Ladies on Rotation and Sounds of Soul teams once again unite to put on the funkiest night in town. Special guests Groove Assassin and Craig Smith will be on hand to help you see in 2016 in style with a soundtrack of the finest in house, funk and disco. Doors 6pm – 2am, tickets £30/£40.

THU 31 DEC

TODD TERJE @ NIGHTVISION

BEJEWELLED For a glittering collection of diamonds, rubies and sapphires make sure you visit Laing Edinburgh’s new flagship store on 72 George Street. It offers an impressive range of luxury jewellery and watches. www.laingedinburgh.co.uk.

Bring in the bells with Nightvision and guests this Hogmanay. Undeniably the capital’s biggest electronic music brand, the team welcome Norwegian DJ and producer Todd Terje to headline. For this special event, Nightvision are taking over The Liquid Room and the new underground Warehouse space. Doors 10pm, tickets TBC.

THU 31 DEC

18 | i-on lifestyle

PARTY PLANNER

From the venue to the lighting, there’s a whole list of factors that need to be considered when it comes to planning an event. Pete Donald and James Parkinson, the directors of Core Events Services in Edinburgh, arm us with some top tips to put your event in the spotlight.

“F

irstly, it’s vital to decide on the purpose of the event,” explains Pete. “Why are you holding it, what is the message and how would you like to communicate it with clients/guests. If we’re to create a concept, develop a theme and deliver a premium experience with the desired end result then we need to understand the objective of the event. We’ve dealt with everything from weddings to product launches, film premieres and political summits – they’ve all been very different.”

Picking a venue that suits your numbers is also essential and co-director James explains why. “It’s never good to have a venue that looks too large or too small. How people will get there is also worth considering - if it’s out of town you may need to include transport. The venue also needs to support the technical aspect, that’s lighting, sound and set design.

Lighting can transform a venue and create a wow factor but there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes and you need space for things like rigging and staging. Somewhere like the

Signet Library (pictured) provides a great canvas for so many events, for us it’s an amazing place to work with because it’s so architecturally interesting.”

“The key in all events is to engage the audience,” Pete adds. “We’re both from theatre backgrounds and know how important it is to convey a message – be that with food, entertainment, set or lighting. They’re all so interlinked and create the scenic backdrop to the whole event.

“Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of technical support. If you lose power during an event, you need an expert on hand to deal with the problem. We’re generally the first people in and the last to leave to ensure everything runs smoothly,” Pete laughs. “It’s all part of the job though.

We wouldn’t change a thing.”

For more information on Core Events, providers of creative design and technical support, visit www.coreeventservices.com or Tel: 0131 556 0661.

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20 | section

2016

Hogmanay words 路 David Pollock

Biffy Clyro

hogmanay 2016 | 21

I

t’s a sign of the rude health of the Scottish music scene at the moment that the prestigious main stage of the Edinburgh Hogmanay Concert in the Gardens has managed to fill its three-band bill with Scottish artists, and none of them seem out of place. In the headline spot are a band who don’t need an introduction, although the audience might be forgiven if they find them a little unfamiliar. With an hour left of 2015, this will be Biffy Clyro’s first and last UK date of 2015.

The last we heard of Biffy (or “the Biffy”, as they’re known to their most dedicated fans) on record was at the beginning of 2013, when they released their sixth album Opposites. An ambitious double album, it was also the Kilmarnock trio’s first UK number one album, even though it didn’t contain any of their biggest songs (unless you count the modest hit Black Chandelier). It’s a testament to how enduring they’ve made themselves as a large-scale British rock act that this is the case.

Less fanatical fans of the trio – Simon Neil and twin brothers Ben and James Johnston – will be more likely to know them from their 2010 hit Many of Horror, which was recorded by that year’s X-Factor winner Matt Cardle as When We Collide. The unlikely endorsement made Cardle’s song a number one and got the Biffy version into the top 10, confirming their status as a bona fide

IN THE HEADLINE SPOT ARE A BAND WHO DON’T NEED AN INTRODUCTION, ALTHOUGH THE AUDIENCE MIGHT BE FORGIVEN IF THEY FIND THEM A LITTLE UNFAMILIAR

crossover success. Yet they’re no one-hit wonders; in fact, they’d already had a bigger hit with 2008’s anthemic Mountains, while tracks like The Captain, Machines and Living is a Problem Because Everything Dies should also be familiar.

Support on the main stage comes from Idlewild, who were formed in Edinburgh 20 years ago and who were at one point poised to be as successful as Biffy Clyro. A noisy and energetic live proposition in their own right, the band’s rockier edges are tempered – like Biffy – by their astute pop songwriting, and also by the dense, folk-influenced lyricism of songwriter Roddy Woomble.

22 | features A crossover success in their own right back at the start of the millennium, they returned to the UK charts with this year’s Everything Ever Written, a strong comeback after more than half a decade’s rest.

The main stage trio is completed

by Honeyblood, a Glasgow based duo founded by Edinburgh singersongwriter Stina Tweeddale. Alongside drummer Cat Myers, she plays a rich and affecting brand of lo-fi shoegaze which has brought Honeyblood to wider national attention. They’re signed to Brighton based indie label FatCat, an enduring champion of Scottish artists, and they’re likely to play some new material from next year’s forthcoming second album here.

Those without a ticket for the Concert in the Gardens will find plenty

Honeyblood

Idlewild

more around the streets to keep them entertained. The Waverley Stage on Waverley Bridge will be headlined

by Maximo Park, the Newcastlebased indie-rockers whose fifth album Too Much Information was released last year; up and coming Glasgow disco-punks White, whose Franz Ferdinand and The Associatessounding style will see them do much more in 2016; and Mercury Prizenominated (and possibly winners, by the end of December) Tunbridge Wells punk duo Slaves.

There will also be funk and soul DJ sets from BBC 6 Music’s Craig Charles and Edinburgh’s own Simon Hodge on the Frederick Street Stage, live sets from Shooglenifty, Rura and Peatbog Faeries which showcase Scotland’s folk and roots sound on the Castle Street Stage, and retro DJ sounds on the Mound Stage.

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party and Concert in the Gardens is on Thursday 31 December. www.edinburghshogmanay.com.

advertorial | 25

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i-on people | 27

MY I-ON

EDINBURGH

Julia Bone

photo ∙ Susie Lowe

Meet Molson Coors’ beer development specialist, Julia Bone.

Hailing from a little village called Kippen, outside Stirling, and now based in Leith, she splits her time between training people on the brewing process and showing them the finest ways to serve beer. Here she shares her views on the city.

What gives Edinburgh its edge? The people, the architecture, the history, the fact you are only an hour away from big hills, good waves and beaches.

Your preferred areas in Edinburgh? I love Leith. It’s my home, it’s on the water and I enjoy the many walks of life.

It’s also a lively and animated area filled with great delis, amazing watering holes and top restaurants. There’s a jovial attitude and it doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Your earliest memory of Edinburgh? Most of these memories are based on meeting friends, or doing silly things growing up. However, I do remember going to the butterfly farm when I was about six.

Where would you take visitors to show them the real Edinburgh? It’s always a good plan to take visitors up Arthur’s Seat – it’s such a lovely view. I also love taking folk to Portobello and showing off our beachfront.

The city’s best kept secret? The farmers’ markets and the niche and quirky pop ups. Edinburgh is bursting with flavours, you just have to look to find them.

Where do you go for a quick escape? My partner and I love going to Belhaven, Coldingham Bay or the North Berwick Lobster Shack when it’s open.

Around the city - Where you’ll find me:

Dining out: Ship on the Shore.

Enjoying a coffee: Piecebox Lunch with friends: Nobles.

Doing business: Indigo Yard.

Having my haircut: Sesh Hairdressing.

Shopping: Anthropologie.

28 | i-on people

MY I-ON

STYLE

Savannah Miller

There’s no doubting Savannah Miller’s fashion pedigree.

After graduating from Central St Martins, she spent spells at both Alexander McQueen and Matthew Williamson before creating the labels Twenty8Twelve and Savannah. She recently joined Debenhams’ stable of designers with the launch of her Nine by Savannah collection which is in the Princes Street store now.

I’d describe my style as… Bohemian yet classic. I like ethnic inspired pieces and that London vintage rock and roll aesthetic but I always like to look well put together.

What’s the story behind Nine by Savannah? I wanted to create a capsule collection for women that would tick all the boxes and work seamlessly together – the perfect jean, the timeless leather jacket, the oversized knit. For Christmas there’s more sparkle with some lovely lace pieces that are great for day-to-night dressing.

What’s your favourite piece from the collection?

The leather jacket because to me it’s just perfect. The price tag is on the button too.

What sparked your interest in fashion? It’s always been there. I remember aged nine and my mother making me a Liberty print dress on her sewing machine and me thinking ‘you’re not doing that right’ and wanting to take over the machine. Some people write, some paint but fashion has always been my medium.

How has your work evolved over time? Belief.

I don’t feel the need to check social media for validation or compare what I’m doing to the work of other designers.

Any insecurities about being ‘valid’ have gone. I’m completely confident in my design.

Who or what influences you as a designer? I love looking at old photography, especially work referencing the ‘60s and ‘70s and icons of that time. I’m also a fan of photographer David Sims and his interpretation of grungy elegance.

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i-on people | 31

MY I-ON

MUSIC

Jonny Linstead photo · Susie Lowe

As general manager of The Voodoo Rooms, by day and band member of boogie blues outfit, Black Cat Bone, by night, it’s fair to say Jonny’s schedule is varied – just like his music taste. From Dr Dre to Jim Morrison, he’s been influenced by it all. Here he reveals his musical leanings and guilty pleasures.

How has music influenced your life? It’s my bread and butter; I play it, I write it and I love it. It’s my job, it’s the way I dress, it’s who I hang about with and it's my life.

My classic album is… Dr Dre’s Chronic 2001. A weird choice for a guy who plays in a Blues band but it reminds me of back home in Stevenston, Ayrshire. We’d go to parties and everyone would rap along and take turns being Dre or Snoop. It was a good time in my life and I have great memories from it.

My all-time favourite band is… Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. They’ve really influenced my style of playing and writing music.

My guilty pleasure is… Toto. Great tunes and yet so cheesy. Incredible vocals and catchy guitar licks.

Which artist do you think is most deserved of fame?

Max Jury from Ohio. He played at The Voodoo Rooms a while back. His songs are incredible for such a young songwriter.

Adult songs about day to day life and heartbreak.

If you could hear any artist dead or alive who would it be? The Doors. The live shows that I’ve watched on DVD have always amazed me. So much energy and passion on stage. Jim Morrison, enough said.

Press shuffle on your mp3 player – what are the first three tracks to come on? Liquid Swords by GZA, Ain’t No Easy Way by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Trouble by Miracle Glass Company.

32 | i-on people

MY I-ON

DESIGN

Jo Aynsley

photo · Susie Lowe

Originally from Northumberland, Jo Aynsley moved to Edinburgh to study Textile Design at Edinburgh College of Art. She’s since made the city her home and you can be assured that’s an extremely stylish home given that Jo is an interior designer at Jeffreys Interiors.

Describe your ‘signature’ look for your home: Coming from a textile background, print and colour are very important to me, however I am quite minimal. I love an amazing print but I would always layer with a plain to rein it in and highlight a colour instead.

If you could pick one statement piece to transform someone’s home, what would it be? It depends on the room. For somewhere like the bedroom, I would create a

beautiful bespoke headboard in a sumptuous velvet fabric or beautiful print to create a boutique feel. It creates a wow factor around the important part of the room – the bed.

Where’s good to look for room inspiration? Pinterest and Houzz. You can see a lot of different styles easily and quickly, creating your own boards to log these. Houzz also provides information on the designer and product details.

Where would you recommend to shop for quirky/ statement designs? Jeffreys Interiors, of course.

Our Stockbridge and Dunkeld showrooms change constantly providing different ideas, layouts and accessories to inspire and we are exclusive stockists of Ralph Lauren Home and William Yeoward in Scotland.

Christmas has arrived in our showrooms, bursting with unique decorations, gifts and fabulous furnishings!

8 North West Circus Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh | Old Church, Tay Terrace, Dunkeld, Perthshire

jeffreys-interiors.co.uk

34 | features

SOCIAL NETWORK How to make the make the most out of the festivities

social network | 35

T

he festive party season’s the ultimate time of year for some top quality schmoozing.

It’s when, after a few eggnogs, ‘Boring Barry’ becomes ‘Fun Time Freddy’ and those colleagues and contacts you’ve been hopelessly trying to connect with become all the more approachable. But, for those to whom social butterflying doesn’t come naturally, here’s how to make the most of the season of goodwill.

“Many a new job or client has resulted from a Christmas party. I even know of people who’ve met investors for their businesses,” unveils Belinda Roberts, co-author of 21st Century Networking and founder of WeDO Scotland, a networking support company for entrepreneurs. “These days there’s considerable overlap between personal and business life and you never know who you will meet. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that because it’s a friend’s party; there won’t be business opportunities there.”

Getting involved at events is key. Be a doer, even if it’s slightly out of your comfort zone. You’ll come

SOCIALISE TOGETHER OVER LUNCH OR AFTER-WORK DRINKS THE REST OF THE YEAR, OUT OF SIGHT OF NOSEY ONLOOKERS

across far more approachable and likeable than someone sitting rooted to their seat expecting things to come to them. Chime in as much as possible, better still contribute something funny or interesting (better yet, both). If you’re stuck for an opener, ask someone how they know the host.

Equally, if it’s a business event, asking if they’ve been to the event before is a good ice-breaker.

Doing a bit of prep work beforehand and finding out who’ll be attending can stand you in great stead too. “For business events, a guest list will often be available so make a list of who you’d like to meet and then ask your host if they’d be able to introduce you,” says Belinda.

“Also, make sure you’ve prepared a self-spiel.

As well as introducing yourself, if it’s a business event, say which company you’re with and summarise in one sentence what it is that you

188 Rose St, Edinburgh, EH2 4BA Tel: 0131 466 1745 E: info@dhjewellery.com W: www.dhjewellery.com

Daniel Henderson Jewellery

36 | features

Networking tips to note: 1. Work the room and do at least three circuits of the venue without talking to anyone in particular when you arrive.

2. Don’t just stick with the same person or group you get on well with. Who knows who else you’ll meet by circulating.

3. Avoid people who are deep in conversation. It’s easier to approach a small group – make eye contact, smile and when there’s an appropriate break in the conversation, introduce yourself.

4. If you connect with someone and feel there could be business opportunities, exchange business cards and follow up within 48 hours.

Party poppers at www.neviti.com

do. And if you’re shy or not great at networking, arrive early to avoid walking into an intimidating room full of people.”

Conversation can be the biggest hurdle for people struggling with networking but asking questions is a great way to deflect the attention onto someone else. Just be careful not to turn a friendly chat into the Spanish inquisition and drop in some titbits and hooks to give your conversation fresh avenues.

Try and bear in mind the 80/20 rule, offer up 80 per cent of your time as a listener; allowing for 20 per cent of talking about yourself. “Ask open questions to the people you meet to build rapport and show interest in them. By doing so you’ll be much more likely to engage with them and enjoy meaningful and interesting conversation,” adds Belinda. When you’re ready to kick it up a gear, switch your simple questions for some getting-to-know-you conversational catalysts.

If you make a connection, be that of business or friendship, following up is key. “Within 48 hours of the

event, get in touch with anyone you said you would contact.

Call them or send them an email and remind them where you met. Check to see if they’re on LinkedIn if it’s a business connection and send them a personalised connection request,” says Belinda.

So that’s the business side of things covered but what happens when you find yourself under the mistletoe with Julie or Jack from accounts? “It’s natural to develop an attraction for colleagues with whom you spend eight hours a day… But I’d advise against making your ‘big move’ at the Christmas bash,” says Match.com’s relationship expert, Kate Taylor. “Everyone has their eye open for gossip and you’ll be the talk of the office in the New Year. Far better to discreetly socialise together over lunch or after-work drinks the rest of the year, out of sight of nosey onlookers. And remember to limit your intake of boozy drinks; it’ll lower your inhibitions to dangerous levels and cause you to lose self-control and dignity, which are far too attractive to throw away.” That’s us told.

GIVE THE GIFT OF HOTEL DU VIN THIS CHRISTMAS, DINNER FOR TWO, A WINE TASTING, AFTERNOON TEA, A NIGHT AWAY IN A LUXURY SUITE AND MORE. For more details about Gift vouchers visit us online

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Festive Menus this December

Celebrate the Festive Season in 5* luxury at the Glasshouse’s exclusive Observatory Restaurant, with a month of festive lunch and dinner menus running throughout December. Alongside their daily menus, there’s also these three one-off specials:

CHRISTMAS EVE

CAROL SERVICE DINNER £69 • Available 6pm on 24th December • Dinner followed by an exclusive Carol Service with mulled wine & roasted chestnuts on the Glasshouse Rooftop Garden

CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH £69

• Available 2pm on 25th December • Celebrate Christmas Day with a glass of Champagne, an indulgent 5 course lunch and then relax whilst we do the dishes!

2 Greenside Place | Edinburgh | EH1 3AA | T: 0131 525 8200 E: concierge@theglasshousehotel.co.uk www.theglasshousehotel.co.uk

HOGMANAY GALA DINNER £110

• Available 6pm on 31st December • Gala dinner with a glass of champagne on arrival and a ticket to Edinburgh’s world-famous Hogmanay Street Party

The Observatory RESTAURANT

AT THE GLASSHOUSE HOTEL

38 | features

Photo by Kenny Louie

big kids | 39

PLAYTIME FEELING NOSTALGIC? THIS CHRISTMAS EMBRACE YOUR INNER CHILD. FROM RETRO GAMES TO ACTIVITIES FOR BIG KIDS, YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD FOR THESE GOLDEN OLDIES…

LEGO Apparently departing childhood does not mean parting ways with your lifelong Lego collection – thanks a lot, Mum. Adult fans of Lego or AFOLs are not only a very real thing but a blossoming worldwide community; making up at least £135,000,000 in sales last year alone – approx. 3.1 billion bricks. And don’t think this is some geeky sub-set of society; celeb fans include David Beckham and Brad Pitt, both praising the brick’s cathartic qualities.

And they aren’t the only ones; from the famous Chinese conceptual artist Ai Weiwei’s political portraits made from the construction bricks to the Edinburgh man who turned his Lego hobby into a full time career – the Danish firm is experiencing a massive renaissance with consecutive years of record profits, beating poor Barbie to the throne for world’s most popular toy company with £2.9 billion in revenues.

Whether it’s for your nephew or yourself, John Lewis has a first class selection of sets this year. You can also shop online at www.lego.com.

COLOURING IN It’s time to start your very own ink adventure and join the colouring-in craze. Yes, really. Used as a way to relax and unwind, the underground hobby once seldom spoken about by adults has hit the mainstream and it’s big business. Scottish illustrator Johanna Basford

40 | features

Johanna Basford

(pictured), author of the multi-million-selling Secret Garden adult colouring in book, explains why. “I think there are three main reasons colouring appeals to adults. Firstly it’s a great way to de-stress. That notion of being ‘in flow’ and completely absorbed in a task - particularly an analogue task that doesn’t involve a screen - is just so soothing. Secondly I think everyone has a creative spark, they just need the opportunity and encouragement to allow it to flourish. An empty sheet of paper can be daunting, but a colouring book offers a gentle buffer to those with blank canvas anxiety.

And finally, there’s the nostalgia factor. Chances are the last time most people did a spot of colouring in, they didn’t have a mortgage, a mean boss or worries about the fiscal debt.

Colouring gives hard working grownups the opportunity to play and to indulge themselves in an activity which likely reminds them of more carefree days.”

So there you have it, you really are never too old to get creative with colour. If you’re tempted to try it out look out for Johanna’s latest colouring book, Lost Ocean.

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big kids | 43 PING PONG Table tennis is back and when I say back, I mean, to its Victorian parlour origins; it doesn’t get much more retro than that. Ping pong (or rather whiff-whaff, as it was called back then) gained popularity at the end of the 19th century. It was during the ‘80s though, that table tennis fever really took hold with the game becoming an official Olympic sport in ’88.

More recently though, the game has returned to its parlour roots with a number of ping pong bars popping up around the country. In Edinburgh, there are a number of ways to get on board; boogie, booze and bop some balls at the Bongo Club’s ‘Rock and Roll Ping Pong’ taking place the last Sunday of every month. Have pizza, pints and ping pong at The Ballroom in Morningside. Or check out Wiff Waff’s monthly Wednesday affair at Out of the Blue for a more wholesome affair with music, drink and great food for all ages.

£16.95 at www.notonthehighstreet.com

TRAMPOLINING When I were a young’un; the sure fire way to earn the admiration of your peers was to talk your folks into having your birthday party at the trampoline centre in Portobello. And, while it always ended in tears - and maybe that was part of the allure - there was always a parent who’d break convention and have a go.

Now, grownups can officially join in the fun at the adult-friendly playground that is Ryze. Located in an industrial estate in Dalkeith, 19,000 square feet of youthreviving interconnected trampolining is augmented with platforms, dodgeball arenas, slack-lines (bouncy tightropes) and springboard slam-dunk basketball hoops.

Don’t let the medical disclaimer put you off, I’m sure you’ll be fine.

Ryze

BOARD GAMES Everyone’s got them and they’re more fun when you play with other people, yup, you’re right, board games.

They tend to gather dust until rainy days or boozy dinner parties but there’s been a recent resurgence in board games with classics such as Cluedo, Connect Four and Monopoly getting airtime. Perhaps it’s thanks to events such as the Monopoly World Championships whose finals were recently held in Las Vegas adding some

44 | features

pzazz to the table pastimes or maybe it’s a modern day backlash against technology based entertainments, either way, the old favourites are making their way back onto the floors and tables of households across the country.

And don’t think it’s just the old classics that are getting all of the attention, interest in board games has officially hit ‘craze’ levels and the number of new creations is utterly mind boggling, there’s even a new board game café called Tabletop on the Royal Mile offering snacks and coffees while you play.

ROLLER SKATE DISCOS If the numbers making up your age are starting to look a bit more like your IQ then you may just remember the institution that was Coasters Roller Disco in Tollcross. The venue’s better known to young’uns as ‘Cav’ these days and sadly, the skating element died in the ‘80s… or did it?

Regular events, such as RollerStop, are paving the way for a full scale retro revival for young and old alike. Get your glad rags on and skate your way to fun and fitness with sessions

ranging from family and beginners to evening grownup mirror ball affairs with activities such as speed skating, backward skating and slalom cones for the roller-heroes.

USEFUL ADDRESSES www.johnlewis.com; www.lego.com; www.rollerstop.co.uk, www.johannabasford.com; www.thebongoclub.co.uk; www.tabletopcafe-edinburgh.com; www.wiff-waff.org; www.ryzeedinburgh.com; www.ballroomscotland.com.

46 | section

WRAP UP

Stay cosy and chic with our pick of warm knits

photographer · Hamish Campbell, www.hcampbellphotography.com stylist · Ian Tod, www.iantod.com make-up and hair · Cori Burnett, www.facebook.com/makeupbycori model · Lucy Garvie at model team Shot on location at The Balmoral, www.roccofortehotels.com Lambskin button scarf, £245, Karl Donoghue at Jane Davidson; cream knit, style vandrona, £295, Theory at Jane Davidson.

section | 47

48 | fashion

Garter stitch roll neck button down back jumper, colour Sasso, ÂŁ350, Cameron Taylor at Epitome.

section | 49

Evernew midi briefs, £9, Sloggi; Cable 8 ply cashmere sweater, £629, and cashmere scarf with pockets, £355, both Stephanie Laird at Jane Davidson; bed socks, £16, Falke at Epitome; suede shoes, style Yasmin, £415, Aquazzura Firenze at Pam Jenkins.

Lambskin button scarf, ÂŁ245, Karl Donoghue at Jane Davidson; oversized lounge coat, ÂŁ445, Cameron Taylor at Epitome.

fashion | 51

Longline tabard knit, ÂŁ110, Whistles.

52 | fashion

Rib tassel scarf, colour moon dust, £215, Cameron Taylor at Epitome; white shirt, £69, Hobbs.

ADDRESS BOOK Epitome, 35 Dundas St, EH3 6QQ, Tel: 0131 556 5554, www.epitomeofedinburgh.com.

Hobbs, 47 George St, EH2 2HT, Tel: 0131 220 5386, www.hobbs.co.uk.

Jane Davidson, 52 Thistle St, EH2 1EN, Tel: 0131 225 3280, www.janedavidson.co.uk.

Pam Jenkins, 41 Thistle St, EH2 1DY, Tel: 0131 225 3242, www.pamjenkins.co.uk.

Topshop, 30 Princes St, EH2 2BY, Tel: 0131 556 0151, www.topshop.com.

Whistles, 97 George St, EH2 3ES, Tel: 0131 226 4398, www.whistles.com.

Sheila Fleet Gallery

Jenners Edinburgh

18 St Stephen Street Edinburgh EH3 5AL 0131 225 5939

48 Princes Street Edinburgh EH2 2YJ 0131 260 2201

Designed and Made in Orkney, Scotland sheilafleet.com

54 | features

SOMETHING NICHE The Gleneagles Collection

N

ot content with its status as one of the leading hotels of the world, the iconic Gleneagles Hotel has entered the world of luxury accessories, with an exclusive range of leather goods.

Inspired by the many guests who have made Gleneagles their home from home, each item is crafted in Italian leather and features a distinct personality: The Summit collection, aimed at the business minded, with designer folios and briefcases to

house cards, documents and pens, The Traveller collection featuring luxury luggage essentials and The 1924 collection, home to smaller items such as wallets and iPad holders. Perfect for anyone looking to take a piece of Gleneagles’ legendary elegance and style home with them.

The collection can be viewed and bought online at www.gleneaglescollection.com or in the hotel’s shopping arcade.

Christmas Crackers

AGL Me & K Tory Burch Aquazurra Jimmy Choo Gianvito Rossi Rupert Sanderson Christian Louboutin

41 Thistle Street Edinburgh 0131 225 3242 | www.pamjenkins.co.uk Open Mon-Sat 10.00am-5.30pm, Sun 12.00pm-4.00pm

All I Want For Christmas Parka (Black or Green), £285

Circles Necklace (Silver, Gold or Rose Gold) £59

Cashmere Wristwarmers, £60

Zip Grey Jeans, £245

GIF T GRE AT HAIR FOR CHRISTMAS

Leather Clutch (Blue, Green, Powder) £30

WE OFFER GIFT CARDS TO ANY VALUE CALL OR VISIT US TO FIND OUT MORE DEANJONESHAIR.CO.UK 0131 558 7777 3A ELM ROW, EH7 4AA

Candle (Silver or Gold) £19

61 Thistle Street 0131 226 2317 www.alceshop.com info@alceshop.com

Follow us @ALC_Edinburgh

tried and tested | 57

MEN’S FASHION

Focus. Finds. Flair

TREND ALERT

Sifting through the ‘70s glam and check tailoring of the AW15 catwalks, one clear trend emerged from the directional lines and that was the olive tones of military green. Pair with neutrals or, our particular favourite, with blues - anything from vibrant cobalts to dark denim. Pictured: Balmain x H&M, available at www.hm.com.

BEARD FOR LIFE Decembeard is the positive new movement to help promote awareness of bowel cancer; the UK’s second biggest cancer killer which, if diagnosed early, can be treated successfully in more than 90 per cent of cases. The premise is fairly simple, grow a beard throughout December and help raise money to support the very worthy cause. Fear not if you’re already ‘with beard’, there are plenty of challenges and team options. Get involved at www.decembeard.org.

TRAILBLAZING Blazers are one of the few garments in your wardrobe that’ll stand the test of time, so they’re worth splashing out on. This single breasted Givenchy blazer is the perfect wardrobe tool, dress down with jeans and a T-shirt or sharpen up with shirt and trousers. £770 at Harvey Nichols, 30-34 St Andrew Sq, EH2 2AD, Tel: 0131 524 8388, www.harveynichols.com.

58 | fashion

TRIED AND TESTED

The Chapar

words · Dean Newton

D

espite a love of all things fashion; increasingly, I struggle to find the time or zest for trawling retail for regular wardrobe updates. What I need is a stylist. Someone who knows my tastes and what’ll suit me, better perhaps, even, than I know myself.

The Chapar is that person. It’s a new service that offers fuss free wardrobe assistance for men. Register your details and your personal stylist will give you a ring to inquire about your fashion preferences such as button down or dress collars, skinny or straight legs, sneakers or shoes, etc. My stylist Katie was very thorough but the call only took about seven minutes.

My trunk arrived just two days later, and, struggling to stifle kid-at-Christmas hype, I had a peek inside. Met first with a sharp blazer, I glanced through the layers and found a further cagoule, three T-shirts, polos, shirts, sweaters, jeans, chinos and a pair of casual shoes, quite the haul.

Brands included Scotch & Soda, Rains, Aidan Kayne and Farah, and at first glance, it looked good.

After trying it all on, while not everything was exactly to my taste or fit, it was all definitely in the ballpark. I ended up keeping about 50 per cent of the items. Part of the point of Chapar is to continue ordering and allow your stylist to get to know your tastes and dispel some of the guesswork.

Amazingly, there’s no cost for the service, no mark up on the garments and no delivery fees. Once you’ve returned your trunk with any unwanted items, you pay only for the items you keep.

As a recent father, my free time is at a major low while my desire to keep my wardrobe on point remains high, for anyone in a similar situation this is the ideal service.

For more information visit www.thechapar.com.

Merry Christmas from everyone at www.charliemiller.com

Annie Smith jewellery studio

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVENT W ED 2ND DEC - 6.30 to 8.30 PM

Come and join The Festive Fun! A night f illed with drinks, nibbles and shopping.

Join us for a glass of festive f izz, a mince pie and an evening of Christmas shopping.

12 Raeburn Pl, Edinburgh EH4 1HN Tel: 0131 332 5749

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98 Morningside Road, Edinburgh, EH10 4BY 0131 447 5544 | sarah@shjgallery.com | www.shjgallery.com

fashion | 61

WOMEN’S FASHION Focus. Finds. Flair

GIGI POWER

At just 20-years-old, Gigi Hadid has already modelled for Chanel, Balmain and Tom Ford. Now she’s hit the high street too as the face of Topshop’s AW15 campaign. Shop the look instore and look out for key pieces including the classic leather biker and velvet playsuit. Topshop, 30 Princes St, EH2 2BY, Tel: 0131 556 0151, www.topshop.com.

PICTURE PERFECT It’s been 20 years since Sheila Fleet set up shop in Edinburgh. Check out her ever expanding collections of jewellery at the shop on St Stephen Street or pop along to the concession in Jenners to see the beautifully crafted Matrix rings (pictured), made in Orkney and available in silver, yellow and rose gold. Tel: 0131 225 5939 or visit www.sheilafleet.com.

BOOT LOVE On the hunt for winter boots? Let us introduce you to Ted & Muffy on Castle Street. A new boutique label founded by the creative force behind DUO, the slick store offers a range of contemporary styles in super soft leathers.

What’s more, to ensure they fit like a glove, they also have 21 different calf sizes available. Ted & Muffy, 8 Castle St, EH2 3AT, Tel: 0131 777 9320, www.tedandmuffy.com.

62 | fashion

JUMP TO IT Forget the LBD, a jumpsuit is the season’s hottest look. Go ‘70s retro glam with plunging necklines, lurex and bell bottom hems, teamed with sky scraper heels. Or bling it up in sequins.

Jumpsuit pictured, asos.com

Excess accessories Embellish, adorn and enhance is 2015’s party mantra and it’s a case of go big or go home when it comes to accessories. Think colossal clutches, epic earrings, planet-sized pearls and stupendous sparkling cocktail rings.

Jewellery (pictured) from Glitzy Secrets.

MATCH MADE

If you want to nail après ski chic, we’re impressed by London designer Eudon Choi’s recent collaboration with Brora. The striking 15-piece cashmere collection is fresh, fun and funky. Brora, 48 Frederick St, EH2 1EX, Tel: 0131 220 6404, www.brora.co.uk.

Hot Orange Bag, £375

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Rose Gold Ring, £59

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introducing | 65

INTRODUCING

The Mirror Metallics

Available in silver, gold, oxblood and midnight blue, Mulberry’s new molten metallic range is guaranteed to make you stand out from the crowd. Prices start at £75 for keyrings but we love the mini Lily bags. Small but perfectly formed. Mulberry, Multrees Walk, EH1 3DQ, Tel: 0131 557 5439, www.mulberry.com

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beauty news | 67

BEAUTY NEWS

People. Products. Places

POWER DUO Back by popular demand, this year’s festive handcare caddy from Cowshed not only looks good, it smells it too. £32 at Harvey Nichols and John Lewis.

Name Dropping Eve Lom, Malin + Goetz, Aromatherapy Associates, Green & Spring, Nude and Diptyque are some of the biggest names in premium beauty and all can be found in this year’s Space NK Christmas Hamper, £150. Handpicked by the Space NK gurus, this luxurious offering is a great gift to give and an even better one to get. Start dropping hints now.

Space NK, 103 George St, EH2 3ES, Tel: 0131 225 6371, uk.spacenk.com

NOIR NOEL

Christmas has come early for Rouge Noir fans as Chanel has taken the best-selling nail shade as inspiration for its new make-up collection with the introduction of a Rouge Noir eyeliner, eye shadow, mascara, eyeliner and lipstick. There’s also a party perfect gold lame top coat to apply over the classic Rouge Noir polish. Available now at Chanel counters citywide.

68 | health. beauty. self

DAILY DELIGHT

Anyone looking for a beauty related Advent Calendar will be spoiled for choice this year as cosmetic counters are laden with them. One we’ve been especially impressed by is this offering from Clarins.

There are no ‘filler’ products, simply 24 of Clarins best-selling and iconic products, including Beauty Flash Balm and Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil. £60 exclusively at www.clarins.co.uk

FABLED FIND

STRICTLY SPEAKING Marks & Spencer has joined forces with Claudia Winkleman to produce the Strictly star’s first beauty range. Featuring items to recreate Claudia’s signature dark eyes and pale lips combo, the range is quirky, cool and doesn’t take itself too seriously, hence the Percy Pig sweets in the My Favourites box, £40. Find at larger Marks & Spencer stores.

Just when you thought Stockbridge couldn’t get any better, cult beauty brand Aesop opens one of its iconic signature stores there – the brand’s first in Scotland. Combining botanically based and scientifically developed ingredients to produce luxurious yet simple products that deliver great results, a must try is the Mandarin Facial Hydrating Cream, £33. Aesop, 6 North West Circle Pl, EH3 6ST, www.aesop.com

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w w w.t h ewax b a r. c o . u k

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Gift vouchers can be purchased at One Spa or online at onespa.com.

F EEL GO O D G I F TS

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festive scents | 71

FEMININE AND FLORAL

FESTIVE SCENTS

Michael Kors Brilliant Gold, from £30 at Boots; The new Chloé signature, 30ml from £42.

FROM FRESH AND FLORAL TO WOODY AND ORIENTAL, START A NEW LOVE AFFAIR WITH ONE OF THESE DELICIOUS FRAGRANCES.

WARM AND DELICIOUS Pomegranate Noir, a classic fragrance in a limited edition bottle, £89 at Jo Malone, George Street; Noir Pour Femme, an oriental gem of a scent, 50ml from £75 at Tom Ford in Harvey Nichols; Miller Harris Poirier D'un Soir Eau de Parfum, £65 at All About Eve, Bruntsfield.

BESPOKE Christian Dior J’Adore Touche de Parfum (pictured left), a sensual floral oil to wear on the pulse points and layer with other fragrances to create your own scent story. £70.

72 | health. beauty. self

TRIED AND TESTED

Supreme Anti-Ageing Facial words · Nicky Howden

E

veryone loves to be pampered, to indulge in a little me-time, relax and take time out from everyday life.

From their calming aromas and relaxing interiors to indulgent treatments, spas offer the ultimate in beauty R&R where the focus is firmly on you.

If you’ve not been privy to an experience like that, then it's time you visit the acclaimed Fletcher’s Cottage Spa at Archerfield Estate. A sanctuary of tranquillity with rustic interiors, luxe furnishings and first rate treatments - not to mention seriously impressive changing rooms - it’s without a doubt one of the top spas in Scotland.

Keeping up the high standards, they also offer some of the best skincare products on the market and recently added the luxury Sisley brand to their treatment portfolio which means guests can now pick from an exclusive range of Sisley spa Phyto Aromatic facials for men or women.

Case in point, the signature Supreme Anti-Ageing Facial.

A unique treatment tailored to your needs, it’s quite possibly one of the most relaxing treatments I’ve ever experienced.

The signature treatment includes an in-depth anti-ageing massage where each muscle is worked on to help boost blood circulation, improve tissue nutrition and promote detoxification. Each process carried out expertly and methodically by the therapist who certainly knew her stuff.

60 minutes later and I felt totally calm and relaxed, my face dewy, glowing and rejuvenated.

From the minute you arrive to the second you leave, the whole experience at Fletcher’s Cottage Spa is amazing.

Make sure you get there early to enjoy the marine steam room and relaxation areas. And take time to enjoy a sherry afterwards curled up on one of the sofas. Do be warned though, if you’re anything like me you’ll want to leave with all the products… Sisley Black Rose Precious Face Oil is next on my beauty wish list.

Supreme Anti-Ageing Facial, 60 Mins, £130 at Fletcher’s Cottage Spa, Archerfield Estate, Dirleton, North Berwick, EH39 5HQ, Tel: 01620 897 580, www.archerfieldhouse.com.

AVAILABLE TO BOOK NOW

OXYGENEO FACIAL This super 4-in-1 facial exfoliates, revitalises, oxygenates and tightens the skin with amazing results after just one treatment!

RADIANT SKIN IS A TREATMENT AWAY . Visible results from the first treatment . Skin rejuvenation and firmed complexion . Oxygenation generated from within . Optimal absorption of revitalizing nutrients . Suitable for all skin types

the beauty room Located in the Stockbridge Pharmacy 34-37 North West Circus Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6TW PH: 07773777758 liz@thebeautyroomedinburgh.co.uk www.thebeautyroomedinburgh.co.uk

74 | health. beauty. self

HEALTH NEWS

People. Products. Places

ALL HAIL KALE?

ON POINT Next time a migraine strikes, don’t pop a pill, consider a piercing. It sounds drastic but many chronic migraine sufferers have found relief from a daith piercing – at the innermost exposed ear cartilage. Although there’s no scientific research to prove it works, the practice has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries with acupuncturists targeting the area in order to soothe headaches.

Full of Beans If you’re swithering whether to have that third cup of coffee, go for it – at least that’s what the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health suggests. Its recent study found that drinking three to five coffees a day can lower the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s and type 2 diabetes.

If you’re struggling to swallow that kale smoothie you may be keen to learn that in the world of superfood greens, watercress outranks kale.

Gram for gram, it contains four times more beta carotene than an apple and an incredible 238 per cent of your recommended daily dose of vitamin K per 100 grams. Eat raw for best results.

Did you know…?

Frank from Fin ance disgracin g himself at the Christm as party yet ag ain, may not be down to the gin but his genes.

The University of Helsinki has identified a genetic mutat ion - a defectiv e serotonin 2B re ceptor - which makes some drinkers more impulsive and reckless after consuming even a small amount of alcoh ol. Currently me dication is limited, with abstaining from alcohol the best option for those afflic ted. Bad news for Frank , good news for the rest of the party.

GREAT HEALTH STARTS HERE ADVICE RELIEF

DE-STRESS

TREATMENT

Enjoy our wide range of complementary therapies.

DETOX

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UPLIFTING 18 Bristo Place, Edinburgh, EH1 1EZ Tel 0131 225 5542, www.deeatkinson.net

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76 | advertorial From left to right: Stephanie Finney, Hamish Dobbie and Dr Victoria Dobbie

A BEAUTIFUL NIGHT

I

t was a double delight for Face & Body at Scotland’s glittering Medical Cosmetic Awards ceremony with the West End cosmetic clinic the only practice to win two awards on the night.

The evening, which took place in the Glasgow Hilton’s Grand Ballroom and hosted by The Apprentice winner Dr Leah Totton, saw a highly respected panel of UK aesthetic experts chose Face & Body as Best Medical Cosmetic Clinic, with their senior medical aesthetician Stephanie Finney winning Best Aesthetician.

In securing the Best Medical Cosmetic Clinic accolade, Face & Body triumphed over six finalists from Scotland’s leading cosmetic clinics, the prize awarded based on Face & Body’s high level of clinical expertise and patient safety, exceptional customer service and the standard of their aesthetic results. “Winning Best Medical Cosmetic Clinic is an honour in recognition of our commitment to achieving natural looking aesthetic results and professional standards,” said Dr Victoria Dobbie, Medical Director of Face & Body.

Clearly delighted by both wins, Stephanie took time to explain why her personal award meant so much saying, “Creating healthy, smooth and blemish free skin is what I do best. For many patients this process can do wonders for their self-esteem. Whether that’s removing excessive hair growth on the face, or a tattoo that they now find embarrassing, or unsightly skin growths. Great skin underpins everything we do at Face & Body.”

The Face & Body team will now be keeping their fingers crossed for the prestigious UK Aesthetic Awards in London on 05 December where they are short listed for three awards: Best Clinic Scotland, Best Reception Team and Dr Victoria for UK Aesthetic Practitioner of the Year.

Face & Body, 32 Alva St, EH2 4PY, Tel: 0131 226 9610, www.faceandbody.co.uk.

LET MOI MAKE YOU LOOK FABULOUS THIS CHRISTMAS

Techni spa advanced slimming and body firming treatments

EDINBURGHS NEWEST BEAUTY BOUTIQUE AND MAKE UP BAR 15% OFF Fake Bake, CND and HD brow products when quoting i-on readers throughout December.

Come join us for our festive events on 1st and 15th December, 6.30–10pm.

Call 0131 225 5464 to find out more and to book.

Book courses of Techni spa to achieve best results: 1) Slimming Anti Cellulite Treatment 1hr 2) Firming lifting Treatment 1 hr 3) Light legs treatments 40 mins

Moi-Beauty @MoiBeautySalon moibeautysalon

48 St Stephen St, Edinburgh EH3 5AL 0131 225 5464

28 Comiston Rd, EH10 5QE, Tel: 0131 447 6611 14-16 Morningside Dr, EH10 5LY, Tel: 0131 629 4532 www.moibeauty.co.uk

78 | travel

NEW YORK

From Central Park to Fifth Avenue and Top of the Rock, there are many reasons to visit New York. Here are some of them. words · Nicky Howden

T

he Big Apple. The city that never sleeps. Or just that place you recognise from movie fame. However you view it, New York is rated as one of the greatest cities in the world. And not just over the festive period.

So if you haven‘t already been there, it’s time you put it on your bucket list. If you have, I suggest you make a return journey.

Given the sheer size of New York, choosing accommodation wisely is a must. We wanted a luxury boutique hotel in the

middle of the action and for us, it was pretty easy. Well, I’ll rephrase that, Mr and Mrs Smith Hotels made it easy.

Bringing together the world’s luxury boutique hotels, the company scours the globe to find the very best of the best and then lists its findings alongside offers on the booking site.

So simple, yet ingenious.

And so with the hard work taken care of, The Roger was booked. A trendy sanctuary with uptown class and downtown cool, it was everything we wanted and more.

new york | 79

In fact it would’ve been all too easy to stay within the chic surroundings or gorge on the food there but with only three nights in town, we mixed it up and ventured out to discover a snapshot of the city.

There are many sides to New York, from the bright and brash Times Square where neon lights sit by supersized restaurants and high street chains, to the Meatpacking District where trendy and laidback go hand in hand, but for us the location of The Roger in the Flatiron District ticked all

the boxes. Perched on the corner of Madison Avenue, it’s just blocks away from famous landmarks like Grand Central Terminal and the Empire State Building but it feels so much more exclusive, away from the hordes of tourists.

Of course, it’s only natural that sightseeing should be on the agenda and if you do want to beat the crowds and see the main sights then look out for the New York CityPASS. The ticket booklet gives you 42 per cent discount on admission to the top six attractions including Top of the Rock, The

80 | travel

The Roger

The Roger

FACT BOX To book a boutique hotel, visit mrandmrssmith.com or Tel: 0330 100 3180.

The Roger, 131 Madison Ave, New York, 10016, US, therogernewyork.com.

For discounted admission to the attractions visit, www.citypass.com.

For tickets to Les Misérables visit www.lesmis.com/broadway.

American Airlines and United Airlines fly direct from Edinburgh to New York.

The Roger

Statue of Liberty and Guggenheim museum. You also get queue jump. The only one it doesn’t include is admission to the recently opened observation deck at One World Trade Centre, now the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere.

Other than that you can’t go wrong with an open top bus tour to get your bearings. Hop off at Central Park for iceskating in winter or to take out a rowing boat in spring and be awe struck by the skyline. And if a musical on Broadway is on your must-do list, prepare to be blown away – especially if like me, you see Les Misérables at The Imperial Theatre. A world class production, full of the most talented singers and actors, it is spectacular. If you’re more about the food and drink scene then you’ll be spoilt for choices with the trendy NoMad, Dead Rabbit and newly opened New York Edition.

Speakeasy bars like Attaboy in Lower East Side are worth a visit too.

Fun, fast paced and dynamic, New York offers something for everyone and really is magical at any time of year.

Call Resort Sales on 0800 169 2984 orsection visit gleneagles.com

Christmas at Gleneagles (24–26 Dec inclusive)

Make all your Christmas wishes come true with a festive stay at Gleneagles.

From £3,565 per room for 3 nights including all food* and entertainment.

This years’ line-up is bigger and better than ever, plus you can enjoy a complimentary extra night on a Bed & Breakfast basis, on 23 or 27 Dec. *some menu items carry a supplement

You can share the magic of Gleneagles with our range of gift vouchers, from spa to golf, country pursuits and more. Browse the full gift voucher collection online at gleneagles.com/shopping

| 81

82 | property and interiors

INTERIORS NEWS

Ideas. Innovations. Inspiration

STAR BUY Made to make you stop and listen, the Ruark R7 is top of our wish list this month. The retro looking beauty brings the radiogram up to date with clean lines and lush audio output. It also includes DAB, FM and internet radio as well as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, CD playback and intuitive digital control. £2,299 at www.johnlewis.com.

IT’S SHOW TIME Create a talking point with this cheeky wallpaper from Cleveland College of Art & Design graduate Melissa Scott. Inspired by subculture, burlesque and pop art, the hand painted and digital illustration is now available for £125 per roll at www.graduatecollection.co.uk.

WELL SEATED If you’re on the lookout for a new sofa or armchair, check out the new Edinburgh showroom for Sofa.com. Spread across 4,000 square feet, there’s a good selection of stylish, comfy and affordable ranges as well as a kids area to keep the little ones entertained. Sofa.com, 63 Marchmont Rd, EH9 1HT, Tel: 0345 400 2222.

JUST BECAUSE…

It’s the season of gift giving and this quirky cup is guaranteed to go down a treat. £9.95 at oldenglishco.Etsy.com.

SIMPLY BATHROOM PERFECTION Make the perfect choice visit the Edinburgh Bathroom Company for great service and price on all products including big brands like Duravit & Hansgrohe.

• 50 Bathroom Displays • Tiles and Accessories • Free Design Service

161 BONNINGTON ROAD, EH6 5BQ OPEN 7 DAYS | TEL 0845 607 6956

www.edinburghbathroomcompany.com

Development Direct is the place for discerning kitchen and bathroom design executed by our award-winning designers who strive for originality and detail. We are spatial design specialists and offer a project-managed turnkey service with full inhouse installation.

UK kitchen designer of the year winner

the place for kitchens

0131 337 2579 51-57 dalry road, edinburgh, eh11 2bx www.developmentdirect.co.uk

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section | 85

I-ON INTERIORS Forget fancy chandeliers, if you want to make a statement with your lighting strip it back and try exposed vintage light bulbs instead. Simple yet chic, bare bulb pendants look great in the office or the kitchen and really can transform the vibe. A selection of vintage bulbs and pendants are available at cataloginteriors.com, www.pagazzi.com, www.styleandlight.com and John Lewis. These filament bulbs are available at www.williamandwatson.com.

86 | features

HOW TO

upcycle Transforming old, unwanted furniture into new treasures is the perfect solution for anyone looking for something truly bespoke. Not only that but it avoids waste too.

Shauna and Sophie from Treemendus, Glasgow, share their top tips for upcycling.

1 2 3

If you’re shopping in charity shops for second hand furniture, pay attention to the shape of the items. For a shabby chic look, for example, look for something with nice curvy legs or a piece that has an interesting bit of detailing. This means when it's time to ‘distress’ your piece, you can pick these details out and make a feature of them.

When you’re painting furniture, it's tempting to dive straight in with a thick layer of paint to see what it could look like – don’t. For a nice, flat finish start with a thin coat of paint, and build it up. This will make the end product look smoother and more professional.

Sand your item down in between coats of paint with a fine grit sand paper to get rid of brush strokes. It takes very little time and effort to do, and makes the end product look much better.

4

Contrary to what you might believe, you don't need all those fancy brushes. Good old Bob-basic paint brushes and Poundland masking tape work just fine, and they’re a great means of getting started on a budget. If you’ve got a bit of cash to splash, however, a wax brush is a good investment. It gets in to all the nooks and crannies that a simple rag can't.

5

Be adventurous, pick out a colour from your soft furnishings/wallpaper and match it for a statement look. Grey and white can be nice, but for a ‘wow’ factor a nice zingy yellow packs way more punch.

Shauna and Sophie are taking part in the Design Doctor social media campaign to encourage Scots to get creative and upcycle. For more hints and tips on upcycling visit www.zerowastescotland.org.uk. Share your pictures using the hashtag #DesignDoc.

Church Hill Place Edinburgh Also at Morningside Road Edinburgh Byres Road Glasgow North Berwick Peebles

timeandtidestores.co.uk

88 | features

ICONIC EDINBURGH Cumberland Street

words 路 David Hicks 路 photos 路 Susie Lowe

C

umberland Street is a street of residential Georgian elegance. Yet it also stands as a reminder of how close the city came to losing some of its greatest assets.

The street is part of the northern extension of the original New Town, masterplanned by architects Robert Reid and William Sibbald around 1801. As with the first New Town there was a hierarchy of streets, with Great King Street and Royal Circus intended as the grandest addresses. The scale and size of Cumberland Street was smaller, with cheaper housing for well off tradesmen. Following on the same royal theme as other New Town streets, it was named after the Duke Cumberland, the fifth son of King George III.

The first buildings were designed by Thomas Brown in 1822, but it was not until the 1850s that the street was completed. Consisting of three storey main door tenements, with a few shops added in Victorian times, the west side of the street was the grander with more architectural features.

The inhabitants of Cumberland Street throughout the 1800s were middling prosperous folk, cabinet makers, tailors, dressmakers and grocers. But by the 1940s this started to change. Slowly but surely the tenements were sub-divided by landlords eager to increase the rent from their property, and very little was done to repair or improve their facilities.

iconic edinburgh | 89

Things came to a head in the 1960s as the council started a programme of housing improvements, and a report highlighted the alarming state of decay and terrible conditions for the residents. An entire block of Georgian tenements was earmarked for demolition as slum housing. However, the newly formed Edinburgh New Town Conservation Committee stepped in to save the street in 1973. Working with the Drummond Housing Association and dedicated residents, they were able to offer grants to transform the street back to its original condition. The buildings, once black and decaying, were revived and the unity of the Georgian architecture was renewed through the restoration of windows, railings, and most noticeably, the stonework.

Today Cumberland Street is seen as an integral part of the New Town, and even features in the 44 Scotland Street novels. However it is worth remembering that its story could have been very different. It was only the actions of a few dedicated people which saved its Georgian elegance.

David Hicks is communications manager at Edinburgh World Heritage, a charity devoted to conserving and promoting the city’s World Heritage Site. www.ewht.org.uk.

section | 91

I-ON FOOD Sugar and spice From nutmeg to cardamom pods and cinnamon sticks, ‘tis the season to enjoy all things spice. For a great range of mince pies, mulled wine and Christmas cakes, check out the new Christmas Signature Spice range at Waitrose. Spanning across 30 delicious foods and gift ideas, they have a mulling pack to infuse spices into glazes and mulled wines for just ÂŁ1.99.

Waitrose in Morningside and Comely Bank. www.waitrose.com.

92 | food and drink

WHAT: A rooftop restaurant in the city centre. WOULD SUIT: A special occasion or dinner à deux.

HOW MUCH: Mains from £17, table d’hôte £35 for three courses.

DINNER @ THE TOWER words · Nicky Howden · food photos · Susie Lowe

I

hate to admit it, but The Tower Restaurant fell off my radar years ago. I have no idea why nor can I pinpoint when, however when a city like Edinburgh is bursting at its seams with new foodie haunts it’s easy to forget about the established ones.

If you’re not familiar with The Tower, it’s the capital’s first ever rooftop restaurant, located above the National Museum of Scotland, with spectacular views of the Castle. The restaurant is part of the James Thomson collection and anyone that’s dined at the Witchery, or Prestonfield for that matter, both part of the family too, will know that means luxury.

The Tower itself is effortlessly stylish, evident from the moment we stepped out of the lift and into the cosmopolitan surroundings. Atmospheric, understated and chic with mood

lighting, sumptuous velvet booths, sunken leather chairs and tables devoid of linens to let the fine glassware and cutlery do the talking.

The menu impressed too and that was before we’d even seen the award-winning and extensive wine list. The food, however, is what really stole the show. Signature starters like the trio of home-cured, Inverawe hot and cold smoked Scottish salmon, £12.50, were not only picture perfect but delicious. The ethically sourced, hand-dived scallops in their rich bouillabaisse sauce, £17.95, up there with the best I’ve tasted too.

Mains also get the balance right with seafood, steak, game and veggie options all making an appearance.

I couldn’t see past the Isle of Mull lobster thermidor, £25

dinner | 93

Leith’s only French owned restaurant

for half, and what a choice. Meaty and moreish, it was served with crispy hand cut chips. The fillet steak, £39 for 200g of Aberdeen Angus Scotch beef, dry aged and hung for a minimum of 30 days by award-winning Borders butchers, Shaws of Lauder and John Gilmour, was also cooked to perfection. A side of green beans, red pepper and sweet shallots, £3.50, and we were in foodie heaven.

The Tower is different from how I remembered it and that’s because it’s better. Better than it was when it opened as a fine dining special occasion-only destination, better than many of its competitors. Unpretentious, The Tower lets its food pack a punch and it’s open for brunch, lunch and dinner, with a well priced two course theatre supper for just £18.85. Exceptional food, service and standards, one thing’s for sure – The Tower truly is back on my radar.

Tower Restaurant, National Museum of Scotland, Chambers St, EH1 1JF, Tel: 0131 225 3003, www.tower-restaurant.com.

FESTIVE MENU

2 courses £13.95, 3 courses £17.50 Or 1 main course and a coffee £10.50

Christmas day lunch menu £57 per person

December @ Bistro Provence 2 courses £23.95, 3 courses £28.00

88 Commercial St, Edinburgh EH6 6LX Tel: 0131 344 4295 www.bistroprovence.co.uk

94 | food and drink

WHAT: A quirky bistro-style restaurant in the historical heart of the city. WOULD SUIT: An anytime dining experience for visitors and natives alike. HOW MUCH: Mains range from £8.95 to £29.95.

LUNCH @ CONTINI CANNONBALL words · Dean Newton · photo · Susie Lowe

O

n the sort of Sunday afternoon that only the hardiest of tourists venture up Castlehill, we made our way to the old schoolhouse building; transformed and revived by the Contini family to house a series of dining options including a gelato parlour and café. We were here for Cannonball though and a slight force 10 breeze and some aggressive drizzle wasn’t going to stop us.

At a table overlooking the Castle’s esplanade, we were treated to a stunning vista and some top notch people watching, further embellished with a live harp soundtrack.

Sunday was looking up fast. So to start and, keen to sample their new menu, I opted for my Achilles heel, the scallops.

Rather than the usual rich, butter-fest that scallops tend to be, Cannonballs’ seasonal variation is a beautifully balanced dish that, thanks to the acidity of the pickled cucumber, tender clams and garden fresh greens, tastes like a day at the seaside. This paired stunningly with a crisp, floral 2013 Veronan Garganega, as suggested by our tremendous waiter-come-sommelier, Chris.

Mains then and I was looking for something to suit the stormy views outside, opting for the Sunday Roast which, this week, was venison. The star of the afternoon, though, was my fiancé’s pork belly. An absolute marvel of a dish served up with some creamed kale and honey roasted beetroot and apples. That’s not to say my roast wasn’t a treat, a generous portion of fantastically gamey, rare venison piled high atop a variety of full-flavoured roasted veg. It’s worth mentioning that an abundance of the flavour, from all dishes, came from the delicious vegetables - picked from Contini’s own garden, apparently.

I’d decided on dessert the second I sat down; the spiced rice pudding. Wonderfully al dente and kept the right side of indulgent with some marsala soaked figs, it was the ideal way to muster the courage to venture back out amongst the disposable macs and dismembered brollies.

Contini Cannonball, 356 Castlehill, EH1 2NF, Tel: 0131 225 1550, www.contini.com.

Awarded Bib Gourmand in 2014 and 2015 The best Thai restaurant in Scotland The Times

Passorn Thai Brasserie: 97 Hanover Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1DJ, Tel: 0131 225 1430 Passorn: 23 Brougham Place, Tollcross, Edinburgh, EH3 9JU, Tel: 0131 229 1537 www.passornthai.com

Your vegan, vegetarian, organic, Fairtrade and free-from needs covered

Whiski Rooms BAR, RESTAURANT & WHISKY SHOP • Fresh Scottish food served all day • Prime wine, cocktail and spirit list • Scottish craft beers and ciders • Families and groups welcome

Including organic brussels sprouts Edinburgh’s favourite elf food shop since 1974

www.realfoods.uk 37 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3JU 8 Brougham St, Edinburgh EH3 9JH

Natural • healthy • ethical • shopping

BOOK NOW FOR CHRISTMAS and our New Years Eve Dinner Party 4-7 North Bank St, Edinburgh, EH1 2LP, Tel: 0131 225 7224 Email: bar@whiskirooms.com Web: www.whiskirooms.com @whiskirooms whiskirooms

Luxury macaron boxes and towers make a perfect gift. Pop in or order online.

22 Grindlay St, EH3 9AP, Tel: 0131 228 4059 www.mademoisellemacaron.co.uk

food news | 97

FOOD NEWS

Sound bites

BARCELONA TO LONDON

After a year of operating on Leith Walk, the team behind Serrano Manchego’s hybrid of café bar and eatery are keen to put what they’ve learned about all-day casual dining into practise, both here, and south of the border, as they expand their concept of fusing British and Catalan coffee cultures to new locations in London. Check out the Edinburgh outlet for superb tapas and coffee.

Serrano Manchego, 297 Leith Walk, EH6 8SA, Tel: 0131 554 0955, www.serranomanchego.co.uk.

FULLY BOOKED Fans of blogger Adrianna Adarme will love her first book, The Year of Cozy. Like her blog, A Cozy Kitchen, it features stunning, inspiring photography, Adarme’s friendly voice along with easy-to-follow but envy inducing recipes and contemporary DIY craft ideas. £14.88 at www.amazon.co.uk.

TIME FOR TEA Edinburgh-based tea merchants PekoeTea have unveiled a new Scottish single estate tea - Kinnettles Gold. With notes of apples and cinnamon spice, this distinctly flavoured tea is grown in Angus with just 2kg produced this year. Available exclusively from PekoeTea, 20 Leven St and 55 Raeburn Pl, more info at www.pekoetea.co.uk.

98 | food and drink

SOCIABLE SEAFOOD

HERE TO STAY

With a spacious dining room and an internationally inspired menu, Checkpoint offers brunch, lunch, dinner and nibbles. Open 9am until midnight every night, expect everything from avocado eggs Florentine to flat iron steak and salad niรงoise.

Checkpoint, 3 Bristo Pl, EH1 1EY, Tel: 0131 623 3030, www.checkpointedinburgh.com.

St Stephen Street has a community minded new addition in the form of Kilted Lobster. All profits from the social enterprise restaurant go to support projects such as meal banks for families facing hardship. Feel good factor aside, the menu is exemplary with international twists on super fresh, Scottish seasonal produce. Kilted Lobster, 112 St Stephen St, EH3 5AD, Tel: 0131 220 6677, www.kiltedlobster.com.

THEATRICAL DINING The Traverse Theatre building at Saltire Court is now home to the freshly opened Dine with Stuart Muir. Alongside a Champagne and cocktail lounge is the resplendent new brasserie, complete with the eponymous cook - formerly the executive chef of Forth Floor Restaurant at Harvey Nichols for 13 years. Expect contemporary dining with a strong focus on Scottish produce. Dine with Stuart Muir, 10 (1F) Cambridge St, EH1 2ED, Tel: 0131 218 1818, www.dine.scot.

100 | food and drink

WINTER PALATE PLEASERS words · James Bligh

T

here’s a unique symmetry between us and produce during months in which mercury takes a nose dive.

Seafood crawls under rocks, vegetables grow deeper underground and farm animals grow more hair, get fatter and smell a little worse. And of course we become fatter and lazier. This combination opens up a reverberating void between us and food. Reliance on stews, root veg and rib-sticking roasts was critical to seeing through months of sideways drizzle; building up fat stores and making the best of what’s around. But it’s now 2015. You can lie in bed, tap a screen and a celeriac in a van will turn up at your door. So line the back pocket of your insulated trousers with some of these winter eating hacks.

Gone are the days of cardboard cereal poured half in the bowl, half on the counter in a scunnert state; dishes such as egg hoppers, breakfast tacos and congee are guaranteed to make you never look back. Using meat leftovers and punchy herbs will see you out the door like a turbocharged snowplough, email the suppliers that attend weekend farmer’s markets and they’ll get you cheap cuts that go a long way in these breakfasts.

Fermented lunch. Bear with me.

The health benefits of fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut and kefir are crazy.

Winter root veg ferments amazingly at home in a kilner jar, opening up endless flavour possibilities. Fennel and turnip kimchi with

winter palate pleasers | 101

Waitrose

leftover roast pork being an absolute must. The zing of kefir makes it a great dressing for meats, salads and fruit.

And dinner. Fat is back. We need a rest from slow cooked meats because we’re still nursing last year’s pulled pork hangovers. Seafood roasts of bountiful winter shellfish, langoustines and flat fish dressed with lashings of herb butter, raw root veg and roasted celeriac are a feast for the senses. If fish isn’t your jam then quality cuts of red meat rumps cooked hard and fast, butter basted and served with a spicy herb salad and braised members of the onion family make a quick killer meal.

Above all we need to get out more and make friends with our mongers. Like the glow of ET’s chest, their rosy cheeks are a sign of passion and signifies that their produce gets them out of bed on cold mornings. Because we’re more conscious than ever about what we eat, the focus of a square meal is no longer on the size of the square, but the quality of the lines that make it up. The only way to guarantee quality is to go straight to the farm, sea and ground. Your tongue will thank you.

102 | food and drink

DRINK TALK

Bars. Brands. Booze

RECOMMENDED

Andrew Lundy, managing director at Vino Wines, unveils his selection of wines to try this month.

GOOD VALUE Woodstock, Maclaren Vale, Semillon / Sauvignon Blanc 2014, £13.95 Australia has many areas that produce wonderful wines, Maclaren Vale manages to emulate one of the greatest areas in Bordeaux for white wine. Produced by the world famous Ben Glaetzer, this is perfect with a smoked salmon starter or some melon and cured ham.

CLASSIC Chateau Filhot, Gold Reserve, Sauternes 1998, £14.95 As a Grand Cru Chateau from Bordeaux, it really does not get better than this for a Christmas pudding wine. It has almost 20 years aging and is elegant and sweet.

This bottle is fantastic value and also pairs well with strong Shropshire Blue.

WINE TIME One of Edinburgh’s favourite French restaurants, L’Escargot Blanc has opened an adjacent wine bar, aptly named, Bar á Vin. The stylish new venue was added amidst their extensive refurb, inside you’ll find Franco/Scottish charcuterie and a selection of cheeses.

Bar á Vin, 17 Queensferry St, EH2 4QW, Tel: 0131 226 1890, www.lescargotblanc.co.uk.

RISING STAR The Chocolate Block, Franschoek, South Africa, 2012, £21.95 South Africa is offering fantastic wines at the moment with investment in production and a real effort to match the success of younger areas such as New Zealand.

This wine is simply wonderful, big at 14.5% but with flavour to match. It’s a refined wine with natural nose and flavour of chocolate. Great with beef and strong flavoured roasts.

To find your local Vino Wines Edinburgh visit www.vinowines.co.uk or Tel: 0131 452 8235. Free pick up and local delivery is also available.

BURGH BREWING The former CEO of Scottish and Newcastle has founded a new family-run craft brewery right here in Edinburgh. The first outing of The Edinburgh Beer Factory is a crisp Munich style lager, called Paolozzi.

Watch out for it around the city. www.edinburghbeerfactory.co.uk.

14 Picardy Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3JT

THIS IS NO

mi s teak SOUP

200g RUMP STEAK FRIES SAUCE DOUGHNUTS

& A GLASS OF WINE

£22

Offer valid for the month of January 2016 Monday - Thursday from 5pm until 9.45pm Friday - Saturday from 5pm until 7pm Terms and Conditions: Book online or over the phone and quote “MISTEAK” at the time of booking. Glass of House Wine can be substituted for any soft drink at the bar. There is no limit to the number of people to dine with this offer. Offer valid from 1st - 31st January 2016. www.steakedinburgh.com

0131 556 1289

Steak Edinburgh

steakedinburgh

food and drink | 105

TAKE THREE

Shaken and stirred, award-winning Edinburgh Gin share their top cocktail recipes to try this month.

Left to right, Cranberry Warmer, Cannonball Martini and Christmas Gin Flip; photo by Susie Lowe

1

CRANBERRY WARMER Fruity and flavoursome 30ml Original Edinburgh Gin 15ml Edinburgh Gin Rhubarb & Ginger liqueur Topped with fresh cranberry juice and finished with a squeeze of zesty orange.

2

CANNONBALL MARTINI Potent and delicious 50ml Edinburgh Cannonball Gin 25ml vermouth Ice cubes to mix Garnished with a green olive.

3

CHRISTMAS GIN FLIP Aromatic and spicy 50ml Edinburgh's Christmas Gin 25ml sugar syrup 1 whole egg 15ml double cream Finely grated nutmeg for garnish Shake egg and gin without ice, then add ice, cream and syrup, and shake again for 30 seconds. Strain and serve.

For more information, or to see where the small batch gins are made, visit The Edinburgh Gin Distillery, 1a Rutland Pl, EH1 2AD, Tel 0131 656 2810, www.edinburghgindistillery.co.uk, Facebook.com/edinburghgin, Twitter @Edinburgh_Gin.

K C A B Fancy a Few Jars?

If you’re looking for a novel way to help your festive party go off with a bang and get tongues wagging then take a peek at Etched’s personalised jar cocktails. Choose your favourite concoctions from the seasonal menu and their in-house designer will craft you a custom label to finish off your bespoke party pieces. Prices start at £5 per jar, find more info at www.etchedcocktails.com.

P-P-PICK UP A PENGUIN DID YOU KNOW… You’ll probably watch four kids’ tantrums on Christmas Day? The personalised digital gift card service, Giftcloud. com wanted to find out what the average Briton’s Christmas Day consists of. And if the festive experiences of those quizzed are anything to go by, here is what to expect.

To have two arguments Get 13 presents Witness four child tantrums Start boozing before 12pm Have five kisses under the mistletoe Miss one person off your shopping list Put 116 decorations on your tree Consume 4,850 calories Have 3.5 hours of sleep on Christmas Eve Not sit down for lunch until 2.45pm

There’s been a penguin invasion in Stockbridge and we’re rather taken by them. Part of a fundraising campaign for LifeCare and It’s Good 2 Give, the quirky little papier mâché penguins are dotted around local businesses including Jeffreys Interiors, Eden and Vino Wines until 22 December. For more information and details on how you can win one visit www.facebook.com/ penguinproject2015.

section | 107

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The ANNA collection From ÂŁ1,250