i-on magazine | January 2020

WIN A LUXURY RETREAT Detox at Radisson Collection Hotel THE BUY OF THE DECADE The interiors lust-haves to add to your wishlist HOW TO EAT NOW Three ways to a healthy new you

EDINBURGH | GL A SGOW

HAPPY NEW DECADE! Join us in raising a toast to the twenties

Presenting the world’s first collection of 22ct Scottish Gold, hand-crafted by Scotland’s première master jewellers.

HAMILTONANDINCHES.COM

Issue 168 / January 2020

CONTENTS

in this mon th’s issue…

06 Win: An exclusive juice detox retreat at Radisson Collection Hotel Edinburgh 10 Ten Top Stories: What’s getting us talking this month 30 How to Eat Now: Three news ways to eat healthily in 2020

Amanda Southey, Business Development Manager

38 My Style: Oska’s Fiona Brown on androgynous dressing

Cover image: Holland Cooper, 10 Multrees Walk, Edinburgh EH1 3DQ, www.hollandcooper.com

40 The Buy of the Decade: What to buy now

This month, Amanda’s all about…

48 Beauty Notes: Must-try products and treatments 54 On the Food Radar: Foodie finds, events and must-try menus 62 Meet the Maker: Introducing Scotland’s tastiest hot dogs 64 Best of Edinburgh: The Sheraton’s Jessy Fassler on her favourite haunts 66 Insta-insider: @edinburgh_highlights share their #top9

SAVVY SHOPPING

“I’ve made a list of favourite items to buy in the sales so I don’t end up purchasing for the sake of it. No fast fashion for me; it is all about quality.”

Outfit available at Jane Davidson.

PLANNING A GIRLS’ WEEKEND

“I want to book a weekend away somewhere fabulous with my mum to celebrate her upcoming 70th birthday.

Suggestions on a postcard, please.”

GOING BOOZE-FREE

“I have done Dry January for 10 years but I’m looking forward to it more now with all the low alcohol alternatives on the market. Clean Gin

by TV personality Spencer Matthews is top of my list to try.” Read about some other booze-free alternatives on page 18.

Directors Jo Morris, Laura Wood Design Pepe Lebron, Sam Hinks Editor Nicky Howden Features Editor Carrie Mitchell Digital Content Editor Graham Turner Account Director Amy Falconer Business Development Manager Amanda Southey Head of Photography Susie Lowe Contributing Photographer Jess Shurte Published by Treacle Productions Ltd, @The Basement, 29-35b Hamilton Place, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH3 5BA, Tel: +44 (0)131 555 4126, Email info@ionmagazine.co.uk, www.ionmagazine.co.uk, www.ionmembersclub.com 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. i-on is a trademark of Treacle Productions. ©Treacle Productions Ltd 2020.

ionedinburgh

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Resort 2020 Smythe Huishan Zhang Roland Mouret Veronica Beard Dries Van Noten Pringle of Scotland Diane Von Furstenberg

0131 225 3280 WWW.JANEDAVIDSON.CO.UK 52 Thistle Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1EN

I-ON PRIZES

WIN… an exclusive

juice detox retreat at Radisson Collection Hotel Edinburgh

L

Terms and conditions: Over 18s only, travel and accommodation is not included, prize is nontransferrable, no cash alternative.

Prize must be redeemed on 29 February/01 March 2020 retreat. For more information, visit www.amandahamilton.com/products/edinburgh-citydetox-weekend or www.radissonhotels.com

ooking to reset bad habits or just hoping to feel in better health before spring?

We might just have the answer. We’ve teamed up with Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a two day detox retreat with Amanda Hamilton, the renowned Scottish nutritionist, author and TV personality. The exclusive Body Kickstart Detox Retreat is a stimulating weekend jam-packed with inspiring seminars, expert consultations, Pilates masterclasses and luxurious treatments in the hotel’s in-house Sleeping Beauty Spa. The detox packages also include delicious cuisine based on fresh juices, smoothies and seasonal soups designed to support gut health, boost energy levels and kick start safe weight loss. The prize is for two days at the February retreat and includes all seminars, classes, detox menu and treatments.

TO ENTER

For your chance to win two non-residential days at an exclusive detox retreat, visit www.ionmagazine.co.uk by noon on Monday 27 January and leave your details.

The winners will be notified by email and announced in the February edition of i-on.

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THE DESIGN SALE S TA R T S N O W. Visit your local store for savings across the collection.

D AN I SH DES IGN SINC E 1952 | BO CO NCE P T. CO M RO S E S T R E E T, E DI NB UR G H. 0131 226 6367 BU C H A NAN G AL L E R I E S AND PRIN C ES SQUARE, GLASGOW. 0141 341 4920 I N G R A M S T R E E T ST OR E COM IN G SOON

I-ON EVENTS

An exclusive six-stage whisky tasting with Johnnie Walker

P

erfect for whisky lovers and those who are new to the spirit, this exclusive Johnnie Walker tasting event is a great way to celebrate and enjoy Scotland’s national drink. A chance to discover the history, distillation and tastes behind some of Johnnie Walker’s most famous labels, the evening will be hosted by a whisky expert who will take you through the various notes and flavours of each blend. Along with delicious nibbles and canapes, you’ll also be greeted with a bespoke Johnnie Walker Highball on arrival at the intimate tasting event (for just 16 people) in Edinburgh’s Angels Share Hotel.

• WHEN: Friday 21 Feb, 6.30pm-9.30pm • WHERE: Angels Share Hotel, 7 - 11 Hope St, Edinburgh, EH2 4EL. • COST PER HEAD: £20 per ticket, plus booking fee.

• WHAT’S INCLUDED: Johnnie Walker Highball on arrival, six-stage tasting through the Johnnie Walker portfolio, nibbles and canapes.

• TO BOOK: For tickets, visit www.ion.ticketbud.com

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I-ON EVENTS

VIP shopping evening at Coach

I

Photography Jess Shurte

t was a night of luxe handbags, fizz and goodie bags at our recent Coach event on Multrees Walk.

Celebrating the festive shopping season, the original American house of leather hosted an exclusive after-hours party for i-on readers to lust after the new collections, hear about new trends and enjoy delicious canapes. One lucky guest, Lindsay O’Riordan, won the free prize draw and walked away with a Coach Dinky bag, worth £295. Find the full gallery of pictures from the night at www.ionmagazine.co.uk and watch out for details of future exclusive reader events.

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IN JANUARY T U O B A G IN K L A WHAT WE’RE T

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YOUR 2020 TO-DO LIST

Presenting the must-do, must-see events on this year’s cultural calendar

FEBRUARY Strictly fans won’t want to miss their favourite celebrity couples take to the dancefloor once more as the Strictly Arena Tour arrives in Glasgow this month hosted by flame-haired former winner Stacey Dooley.

See them strut their stuff for the judges at The SSE Hydro from 01 to 02 February.

To book, call 0844 395 4000 or visit www.ticketzone.co.uk.

JANUARY If your little ones are dino mad, make sure you take them along to get up close to the most feared and revered of all the dinosaurs at Tyrannosaurs, a new cutting-edge exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland. Opens 23 January and runs until 04 May. Book now at www.nms.ac.uk.

MARCH Get ready to be seduced by the glamorous, glittering world of the ‘20s and ‘30s as the National Portrait Gallery presents Cecil Beaton’s Bright Young Things, a major new exhibition exploring the leading cast of the era seen through the lens of the renowned British photographer and golden boy of Vogue.

Opens 12 March, runs to 07 June.

Tickets available at www.npg.org.uk.

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APRIL Featuring an impressive array of local and international artists, Glasgow International is one of the UK’s largest and most influential art festivals. This year’s programme features 60 new exhibitions and events taking place across the city from 24 April to 10 May including the first UK exhibition of work by the late Congolese sculptor and artist Bodys Isek Kingelez, following a recent retrospective of his work at MoMA, New York. More information at www.glasgowinternational.org.

MAY

Photography by Paul Coltas, Matt Crockett, Trevor Leighton, Susie Lowe, Ian Rutherford.

Fresh off the back of headlining Glastonbury, The Killers have announced a major UK tour including one Scottish date at Falkirk stadium on 28 May. The sure-to-sell-out gig celebrates the spring release of their hotly anticipated sixth studio album, Imploding The Mirage. You’ll find any remaining tickets at www.ticketmaster.co.uk.

JUNE Broadway’s smash-hit musical, Book of Mormon, arrives at Edinburgh Playhouse from Wednesday 17 June – Saturday 04 July.

Written by the brains behind South Park and the songwriter behind Disney’s Frozen and Coco, the multi-award winning show follows a pair of Mormon boys sent on a mission to a place that’s a long way from their home in Salt Lake City. Performances always sell out so snap up any remaining tickets now at at www.gtickets.com/edinburgh or www.thebookofmormonmusical.com.

JULY Scotland’s biggest music festival is back for another legendary weekend on Glasgow Green from 10 to 12 July. This year’s TRNSMT promises the biggest names in rock and pop with the headliners announced as the Courteneers, Liam Gallagher and Lewis Capaldi; who will be joined on the line-up by Ian Brown, Blossoms, Rita Ora and Snow Patrol among many others. Tickets available now at www.trnsmtfest.com.

AUGUST This year’s instalment of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe promises over 3,500 shows for festival-goers to enjoy from 07 to 31 August. The first batch of shows will be announced on 30 January, with more released each month until the full programme launch on 10 June. Stay up to date at www.edfringe.com.

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OCTOBER SEPTEMBER If you like your popstars to feature high on the diva scale, you won’t want to miss the chance to see super-songstress Celine Dion when her Courage World Tour arrives at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro on 11 and 12 September. The tour celebrates the release of Dion’s first English language album in six years. Snap up tickets at www.ticketmaster.co.uk.

Explore the history of club culture at the V&A Dundee’s latest exhibition, showcasing the evolution of nightclubs all the way from the Studio 54 days to Manchester’s Hacienda hey-day, right up to more recent concepts like Ministry of Sound. Opening on 31 October, Night Fever: Designing Club Culture runs until 14 February 2021. Tickets available online at www.vam.ac.uk/dundee.

NOVEMBER Prepare to be dazzled as the multi award-winning West End production of Dreamgirls stops off at Edinburgh Playhouse on its first ever UK tour. The musical which inspired the Oscar-winning movie follows Effie, Lorrell and Deena as they embark on a musical rollercoaster in 1960s America. Opens 24 November and runs until 05 December. Book online at www.atgtickets.com.

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DECEMBER Edinburgh’s Hogmanay gets bigger and better every year so prepare for the most memorable street party ever with the brightest stars, the boldest fireworks and the most fun-loving crowd in the world. Stay up-to-date with confirmed acts and ticket release dates at www.edinburghshogmanay.com.

OSKA / ISCHIKO 17 Stafford St Edinburgh EH3 7BJ T +44 1316 081179 Shop online uk.oska.com

LOVE LEITH

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With the pesky Tramworks closing Constitution Street, some great culinary haunts in the area are being sadly neglected so next time you’re heading out for a bite, consider showing some love to the likes of Chop House, Rock Salt, Nobles, The Compass, La Riva Pizzeria and new Bombay café Cutting Chaii on Salamander Street.

£1 THEATRE TICKETS

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© Roberto Ricciuti

Traverse Theatre is back with another epic spring summer season and a new £1 Tickets scheme. Out to make theatre more accessible to under 25s and those receiving Job Seeker’s Allowance, Employment Support Allowance, Universal Credit or Carer’s Allowance, the new ticketing initiative is available for all Traverse Theatre Company productions and co-productions (and most visiting company shows, too). Highlights include the world premiere production of Rona Munro’s Donny’s Brain, the return of the award-winning gripping hit about class, culture and appropriation, Mouthpiece (pictured) and an extended eight-play season of lunchtime favourite A Play, A Pie and A Pint. To book tickets call 0131 228 1404 or visit www.traverse.co.uk.

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L THE FESTIVA… NOT TO MISS

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aise a dram to Rabbie Burns at Burns & Beyond with Johnnie Walker 2020. Celebrating the legacy of Robert Burns through a programme of live music, art, comedy and creative talent from across Scotland, the inaugural festival welcomed over 30,000 visitors last year and it’s back from Tuesday 21 January to Saturday 01 February. Here’s what to expect:

Rachel Sermanni will perform at the Festival Club.

Photo by Ryan Johnston

A new festival club

Promising a feast of live music, performance and whisky, the Festival Club at the Assembly Rooms, George Street, from Thursday 23 – Sunday 26 January. Scottish music legend and inspirational artist Edwyn Collins will kick off celebrations on the first night and Glasgow four-piece band Tide Lines will appear on the Friday.

Chinese new year celebrations

Burns Night and Chinese New Year both fall on 25 January – a coincidence of timing that only occurs every 76 years.

To celebrate, there are special events including bilingual ceilidhs, the Chinese Lantern installation at St Giles’ Cathedral (pictured above), Burns & Beyond Culture Crawl and the Giant Lanterns of China at Edinburgh Zoo.

Family-friendly events

For families and younger Burns fans, there’s a new (free) fun-packed lunchtime party with poetry, music and ceilidh dancing, The Bairn’s Burns Supper, on Saturday 25 January. Major Minor Music Club will also be at Freemason’s Hall, George Street, on Sunday 26 January featuring Martha Ffion and Band.

The ultimate burns supper

Expect comedy, live music and delicious food and drink at the not-so-traditional Burns Supper in Freemasons’ Hall on Friday 24 January. Comedian Scott Gibson will host the event with special guests, a few surprises and a spectacular ceilidh finale.

A touching tribute

Celebrating the life and music of Frightened Rabbit’s Scott Hutchison, Burns & Beyond Charity Concert is a night of live music and entertainment curated by Scott’s brother and bandmate, Grant Hutchison and family. It takes place at the Usher Hall on Sunday 26 January and all proceeds raised from ticket sales will be donated to charity Tiny Changes, raising awareness about mental health issues affecting children and young people.

For tickets and more information about Burns & Beyond with Johnnie Walker, visit www.burnsandbeyond.com.

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DON’T MISS T THESE GREALS DINING DEA

It’s not just the shops getting in on the January sales action so treat yourself to a culinary bargain while you can

50% OFF AT GUSTO

The George Street Italian is back with their January sale offering 50% off the à la carte menu. Valid at all times except Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday from 12-5pm. You must book through the offer page at www. gustorestaurants.uk.com/ january-sale/. If you just show up, you’ll need to pay full whack for your food.

50% OFF FROM THE MONTPELIER GROUP

30% OFF AT TATTU

Haven’t tried Edinburgh’s most exciting new Chinese restaurant yet? Now is your chance with the swanky St Andrew Square eatery offering 30% off the à la carte menu every Sunday to Thursday 12pm-10.45pm and Fridays from 12pm-4.45pm. We’ve already been but we’ll definitely be going back for this!

3 FOR 2 AT NOR’ LOFT

Market Street Hotel’s rooftop Champage lounge are offering three of their delicious small plates for the price of two, throughout January and February, available every day from 12noon to 9.45pm.

For more details, visit www.carlton.nl/en/ market-street-hoteledinburgh/norloft.

*For terms & conditions please check each restaurant’s website.

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Rabble, Tigerlily and Indigo Yard are all back with their half off deal on the full a la carte menus from 0631 January. Just quote Rabble50, Tiger50 or Indigo50 when booking. More info at rabbledinburgh.co.uk; tigerliledinburgh.co.uk or indigoyard.co.uk.

50% OFF AT CHAOPHRAYA

The upscale Thai restaurant in Edinburgh and Glasgow is offering 50% off food from the à la carte or set menus from Sunday to Thursday throughout January.

Tables must be booked online at www.chaophraya. co.uk/chao-pass/

Get one half of these JERK CHICKEN SKEWERS for free!

BOOKING IN ADVANCE REQUIRED. NOT IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER CHECK INDIVIDUAL WEBSITES FOR AVAILABILITY & FULL A LA CARTE MENUS

RABBLEEDINBURGH.CO.UK 0131 622 7800

TIGERLILYEDINBURGH.CO.UK 0131 225 5005

INDIGOYARDEDINBURGH.CO.UK 0131 220 5603 17

Y DRY JANUAR E DOESN’T HAVG N zero ORlowIan EB TO B d st be e th of ck r pi …with ou es alcohol alternativ

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For red wine drinkers

With aromas of red berries, plums and blackcurrants on the nose, the Viña Albali Cabarnet Tempranillo 2017 (0.5% ABV) has a silky-smooth taste with balanced tannins and a light, fruity after taste. £5.15, www.winebuyers.com.

For white wine sippers Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most popular white wines in the UK and this low alcohol bottle of Viña Albali Sauvignon Blanc 2018 (0.5% ABV) is pretty convincing stuff too. Fresh and lively, with intense melon, lime and passion fruit aromas and subtle grapefruit and herbal notes. £5.12, www.winebuyers.com.

For gin lovers

The world’s first distilled nonalcoholic spirit, Seedlip comes in a range of flavours but if you’re looking for the tastiest gin alternative for a G&T, go for Grove 42: a zesty and complex blend of orange, mandarin and blood orange with spicy notes of ginger and lemongrass. As well as zero alcohol, it has no sugar, sweeteners or calories. Saintly stuff! £26, www.seedlipdrinks.com.

For rum connosieurs

STRYYK Not Rum distilled spirit blends sweet sugar cane and raisin notes with characteristic vanilla and oakwood tones to create a perfectly balanced non-alcoholic spiced rum alternative. Perfect in a mo(ck)jito or just with coke. £17.09, www.winebuyers.com.

For fizz fiends

With hints of sweetness on the palate and crisp and ripe apple scents on the nose, Thomson & Scott’s Noughty sparkling Chardonnay is not only organic and vegan but is low in sugar and just 0.05% ABV, making it the perfect choice for those kick-starting their New Year detox. £12.99, www.winebuyers.com.

For beer slurpers

A refreshing and crisp zero alcohol beer with bursts of fruit and citrus flavour, Lowlander’s 0.00% Wit beer is brewed with reclaimed orange and lemon peels and unlike many alternative adult soft drinks, it’s low in sugar (just 76kcal a bottle). £1.99 per bottle from LightDrinks.co.uk. It’s also delicious served over ice with Seedlip Grove 42, ginger syrup and lime juice to create a Sobeer Citrus Beergarita (pictured on opposite page).

Where to go for a nonalcoholic night out…

In Edinburgh: Dishoom’s range of ‘Dry Tipples’ is, in our humble opinion, unsurpassed in the capital. Sophisticated mocktails which taste like the real deal are made using a blend of spices, botanicals and other secret ingredients – there are martinis, mojitos and even a Dry Old Fashioned made using smoked demerara, orange bitters, juniper, applewood, cayenne and orange peel. Enjoy with dinner or in the basement cocktail bar The Permit Room. www.dishoom. com/edinburgh In Glasgow: Just across from the Barrowlands, forwardthinking bar The Gate is going dry every Monday offering up a new menu each week featuring non-alcoholic beers, groundbreaking Scottish soft drinks and innovative cocktails made with Seedlip. www.thegateglasgow.com

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I’VE HEARD EVERY EXCUSE UNDER THE SUN. SOME OF THEM HAVE BEEN REASONABLE, SOME OF THEM HAVE BEEN RIDICULOUS”

IT’S ALL IN YOUR HEAD!

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ve Mental Celebrity trainer and ‘Positi on alla Abd al Attitude’ expert Fais from k bac you g din hol lly what’s rea your fitness goals

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s a fitness coach, I’ve come to discover if there’s one thing people love to be scared of, it’s exercise. I’ve heard every excuse under the sun. Some of them have been reasonable, some of them have been ridiculous, but it has made me realise that fitness is firmly in the “can’t do box” for so many people. So, to try and help you overcome the hurdles in your head, I’m going to tackle a few of them for you now…

GYMTIMIDATION

This is a real thing and I totally get it. The gym can be a very intimidating place for a beginner, but very often that’s because we are focusing on the wrong thing entirely, and that’s everybody else in the gym. We love to compare ourselves to others, but we have a bad habit of only comparing ourselves to people we think are better than us.

There will always be someone better than you at something in any gym or fitness class you go to. Let it go. You don’t need to be the fittest, the fastest or the strongest. You’re working to be the best version of yourself and for that all you need is the bravery to take those first steps and the commitment to keep taking them.

NO MOTIVATION

A common reason for a lack of motivation is a lack of enjoyment. If you’re not having fun while exercising, it’s natural you’re not going to be chomping at the bit to do it.

Experiment with different ways to work out and keep going until you find the right fit. Recruit some friends, create an awesome workout playlist, try training outdoors, you get the picture. Just don’t be scared to play with the formula because exercise isn’t one size fits all.

Whatever your excuse, I can almost guarantee there’s a way to overcome it. It is hard to get started, but, it’s not impossible so don’t waste your life waiting for tomorrow.

The time is now. You may never run out of excuses but one day you WILL run out of tomorrows, so get out there and start living your best life today.

Fasial Abdalla will be leading his PMA Fitness class on Sunday 02 February at The Edinburgh Wellbeing Festival.

For tickets and more information, visit www.edinburghwellbeingfestival.com.

YOU’RE BROKE

Exercise doesn’t cost money. You don’t need a fancy gym membership, you don’t need designer workout gear. All you need is a body that can move. We are fortunate that there are now endless incredible and free workout videos available online that can help inspire us in the comfort of our own homes. If you have no equipment, you can use your own bodyweight and get an amazingly effective workout in.

YOU’RE TOO BUSY

I’m a pretty busy man and a dad too so I never get to clock off, but my fitness hasn’t taken a back seat. I fit in exercise because I make it one of my non-negotiables. Just as I wouldn’t skip brushing my teeth, I wouldn’t skip exercising because it’s part of my routine. I absolutely understand some days can be insanely busy, but people need to stop looking at exercise as something that needs a whole hour of the day. On the days where you are super short on time, just prioritise staying active throughout your normal day: stairs instead of the lift, walking instead of the bus, carrying a basket instead of pushing a trolley... you get the idea. Just do something instead of nothing.

YOU’RE TOO UNFIT

Let me say this loudly one more time - you don’t have to be fit to get started, you have to start to get fit. We were all beginners once and we all had to start somewhere so don’t waste your energy feeling embarrassed, channel that energy into getting better. And remember, it’s not supposed to be easy. If it feels easy, you’re not working hard enough.

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READER OFFER READER OFFER

Exclusive i-on Reader Offer Membership to The Balmoral Spa

T

he iconic five-star hotel is offering i-on readers the chance to sign up for a three month spa membership and receive two additional months for free.

The Balmoral Spa, set within the iconic Rocco Forte hotel, is a serene urban spa experience in Edinburgh - a sanctuary in the heart of the city and the perfect place to escape the pace of city life.

Membership at The Balmoral Spa includes regular access to spa facilities, including a fully-equipped cardiovascular gymnasium, fitness and dance studio, sauna, steam room and 15-metre swimming pool.

Each ION reader who joins will also receive two complimentary guest passes and will be entered into a prize draw for the opportunity to win a 50 minute Essential Body Massage.

TO JOIN Simply quote ION Jan20. To join or to arrange a membership meeting, call 0131 622 8880 or email: thespa.balmoral@roccofortehotels.com

BENEFITS: Access to all Spa facilities (swimming pool, sauna, steam room, gym, studio) any day of the week Access to fitness classes Induction with personal trainer Complimentary towel usage 20% off Spa treatments Monday to Thursday 10% off Irene Forte Skincare 10% off food and drink in Number One, Palm Court, Brasserie Prince & Bar Prince

Terms & Conditions: Offer is valid for monthly peak membership only (ÂŁ90 per month). New members only. Members must pay by monthly direct debit and an ÂŁ80 joining fee applies. Offer is subject to availability with a minimum sign up period of 3 months. Members must sign up by 31st January 2020 and must be over 18 years old. Not valid for corporate rates. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer.

THE BALMORAL SPA | 1 PRINCES ST, EH2 2EQ | ROCCOFORTEHOTELS.COM 22

For personalised luxury, look no further.

Winner of Scotland’s small agency of the year 2018 & 19 Jimmy Martin Travel is delighted to be working with award winning Classic Collection Holidays.

For more information visit Jimmy Martin Travel to create your luxury bespoke holiday.

94 Raeburn Place, Edinburgh. EH4 1HH. Call: 0131 343 1800 email: enquiries@jimmymartintravel

UR EXPLORE YO WILD SIDE

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The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is back with a brand new selection of gripping action and adventure films from the world’s best adventure filmmakers. Watch intrepid explorers on super-human challenges, soulful journeys and mind-blowing cinematography from the wildest corners of the planet at the Festival Theatre, Edinburgh, on 25 January (matinee and evening) and The Kings Theatre, Glasgow, on 25 February.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.banff-uk.com.

erland © Ben Tibbetts Valentine Fabre, Dent Blanche, Switz

WORDS OF WISDOM

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Message from the Skies will once again illuminate Edinburgh’s buildings, streets and monuments from 01-25 January.

It marks the beginning of Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters and sees five Scottish authors; Charlotte Runcie, Irvine Welsh, Kathleen Jamie, Kayus Bankole and Robin Robertson pen a love letter to Scotland, which will be projected onto locations across the city. The letter will be a living letter, animated and brought to life through a set of new and unique collaborations with composers and visual artists. Find out more at www.edinburghshogmanay.com.

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Message from the Skies 2019 © Ian Georgeson

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MULTREESWALK • WWW.MULTREESWALK.CO.UK • ST. ANDREW SQUARE, EDINBURGH EH1 3DQ

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ŠTCVB

YOUR 2020 HOLIDAY HIT LIST vel Independent tra artin M y m Jim rt pe ex n on the ow wd lo e gives th e this year. se destinations to

TOKYO

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Known to be one of the most densely-packed cities on the planet, the capital of Japan has skyscrapers, busy pavements, bright lights, edgy street fashion and traditional and contemporary culture. It hit the media spotlight for the Rugby World Cup 2019 and all eyes will be back on Tokyo this year for the 2020 Summer Olympics, taking place from 24 July to 09 August. But the destination has more to offer. Make sure you take time to visit a traditional tea ceremony, the largest Pokemon centre in Tokyo, or take the famous bullet train to discover some other fantastic Japanese cities.

STAY: The five star Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi is in a super trendy area and great for the discerning traveller. Room rates from ÂŁ470.

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FINLAND

Voted the happiest place on Earth for the second year in a row, Helsinki, the capital of Finland, is a great city to cover on foot. It’s also one of the safest places to go, according to 2019 Travel Risk Map. When you’re there, make sure you also visit the archipelago of Helsinki which consists of around 330 picture perfect islands. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. This summer, the capital will also host the first-ever Helsinki Biennial, an international art event bringing outstanding contemporary art to the city.

Best of all, you can fly direct from Edinburgh with Finnair.

STAY: Hotel Kamp, Helsinki, is a grand and stylish hotel with a central location near the harbour. Room rates from £260.

Helsinki Paiva

SOUTH AFRICA

This was a super popular and great value for money destination last year and its appeal continues in 2020.

Thanks to easy flight options from Edinburgh, Cape Town, the Winelands, the Garden Route and Big 5 Safaris are all within reach. You can stay anywhere from pretty guest houses to five-star luxury hotels, all budgets are catered for.

STAY: The Last Word Franschhoek has a great location and reviews.

Room rates from £230.

ca

ional Park, South Afri

Sunset in Kruger Nat

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ITALY

Edinburgh has many direct flights to Italy and remains one of our most popular European destinations. Lots of cities can be combined easily by rail – for example, Rome, Florence, Venice or a visit to the scenic and idyllic Italian Lakes like Lake Garda or Lake Como for the magnificent Grand villas and stunning views.

For the best fresh seafood, discover the coastal region of Cinque Terre in the northwest or the Amalfi coast in the south, also home to picturesque small beaches and pretty pastel-coloured fishing villages.

STAY: For a perfectly refurbished luxury Palazzo try the Il Salviatino Hotel, on the outskirts of Florence.

Room rates from £430.

Lake Como

COSTA RICA

As featured in the Top Ten Countries for travel in 2020 in Lonely Planet’s annual Best in Travel guide, Costa Rica is for people looking for a real destination holiday. Bordered on the east by the Caribbean Sea and on the west by the Pacific Ocean, the region caters for all types of traveller from adrenalin junkies exploring unique wildlife and landscapes to beach enthusiasts and active families. It also has a good road network and friendly locals to help show off this beautiful country.

STAY: Pacuare Lodge, a unique lodge nestled in the middle of a rainforest and accessible only by 4 x 4 or by raft from the Pacuare river.

From £400 incl transfers and tours, min twonight stay.

Celeste River © Visit Costa Rica

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Jimmy Martin Travel on 94 Raeburn Place, Edinburgh, was crowned the Scottish Agency of the Year in the Agent Achievement Awards 2019. For advice on your next holiday, call 0131 343 1800 or visit www.jimmymartintravel.com.

n o h t a r a M h g r u b n i d E Free n u r u o y n e h w s e c a Festival Pl for Rock Trust Start your year with a pledge to help us end youth homelessness in Scotland. Sign up to the Edinburgh Marathon Festival today.

Taking place May 23rd & 24th 2020.

rocktrust.org

5K | 10K | Junior races | Half Marathon | Full Marathon | Hairy Haggis Relay

HOW TO EAT NOW

We’ve finally accepted diets don’t work, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t think about what we put into our bodies.

Here, the experts break down three news ways to eat healthily in 2020…

HEALTH

IF YOU’VE BEEN STRUGGLING WITH YOUR HEALTH, CUTTING OUT SUGAR FOR A PERIOD OF TIME CAN BE A GREAT WAY TO KICK START BIG CHANGES.”

1 > A SUGAR-FREE LIFESTYLE Edinburgh-based nutritionist Michaella Mazzoni on the surprising benefits of ditching sugar

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e all know someone who’s cut sugar from their diet and seen the pounds fall off but a sugar-free lifestyle isn’t just about weight loss. Several years ago, I had been struggling with fibromyalgia (chronic pain), fatigue, anxiety and depression. I wasn’t getting anywhere with mainstream approaches so I tried cutting out sugar to see what impact it would have on my health. This was years before I got a qualification in nutrition, and truthfully, my diet was pretty shocking. It felt like a huge challenge to me, so initially I committed to it for just one week. By the end of those seven days, I couldn’t believe how much better I felt so I carried on avoiding sugar.

My sleep quality, energy and mental functioning improved greatly. Most notably was the decrease in my pain levels. Years later, I now understand the impact of blood sugar levels and its knock-on effect to how the body copes with inflammation, stress, sleep, pain and even immunity. For example, every time you have sugar, the immue system is ‘down’ for about two hours.

Particularly challenging was getting to grips with food labels. Even ‘healthy’ food had hidden sugars, often under names like ‘dextrose’ and food which you wouldn’t expect to have sugar, like pasta sauce or oven chips. I ended up doing much more home cooking which, although I enjoyed, did take some extra planning. In time, things like checking labels became second nature to me and didn’t feel like a challenge. At times, eating out was a bit tricky since sauces often have added sugar to enhance flavour. I got around this with simple changes like asking for dressing on the side.

My efforts were 100% worth it. For me, it was the start of a journey to really getting on top of my chronic pain and fatigue issues. But you don’t have to have a condition for it to be beneficial. Anyone struggling with poor sleep, low immunity or low energy could feel improvements in their health. I’d recommend trying it for one or two weeks; it’s a small commitment and allows you the chance to see how you feel. I always tell my clients - the thing to remember is that all the little changes you make add up and the body is grateful for it.

Michaella offers private nutrition consultations to help support all areas of health such as IBS, low energy, chronic pain, menopause and mental health. Michaella works at Napier’s/D. Atkinson, Neal’s Yard and Soma. To find out more, visit www.michaellamazzoninutrition.com or call 07786 841 333.

SUGAR-FREE SNACKS SEASONAL FRUIT

Seasonal fruit is full of fibre and other great nutrients, as well as natural sugars. Pair with protein (e.g. a small handful of nuts) to stop blood sugar from increasing so drastically.

PROTEIN BALLS

I make a batch on the weekend to see me through the week. When adapting your favourite recipes to low/no sugar, decrease the sugar measurement by 1/3 and substitute 1/3 of the flour with protein powder.

OATCAKES AND HUMMUS

Rich in protein and fibre, hummus is a great betweenmeal snack to boost your energy, especially when paired with healthy, wholegrain oatcakes.

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WILLPOWER AND DISCIPLINE IS NOT THE SOLUTION TO YOUR FOOD PROBLEM”

2> INTUITIVE EATING Gillian McCollum, an Edinburgh-based Intuitive Eating Health Coach, on adopting a more relaxed approach to nutrition

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hen I talk about the curse of dieting, I’m not just talking about famous trademarked diets like Paleo, Keto and Atkins. I’m talking about moralising food, becoming emotionally attached to it and basing your self-esteem on what you eat. It’s ‘good food’ days versus ‘bad food’ days or when you start thinking ‘I deserve xyz food because I did xyz thing’. It may sound harmless and innocent but it’s actually disordered eating; it’s just so prevalent in our world that we consider it a part of the female experience, like having our period.

The average women in the UK will spend 17 years of her life dieting. It’s like a tab on our computer constantly running in the background, using up battery and slowing down productivity. But it’s about health, I hear you say. Only health can be pursued entirely independently of weight loss and arguably way more effectively.

Finding freedom around food and enjoying peace in your own body are, in my opinion, the two most healthful endeavours you can undertake for your physical and mental wellbeing. Not only are these far more likely to result in more positive health outcomes but they’re more sustainable and don’t rob you of your freedom and life along the way. So, if we’re not being led by diets, plans and programmes, what then? How can we possibly be trusted around food? How do children know when they’re hungry and when they’re full? Instinct and intuition; no willpower or discipline required.

Although formalised by two American dieticians in the 1990s, Intuitive Eating is nothing new. We are all born with this capacity; we’ve just lost the ability to trust our own innate intuition. The success rate of a diet is anywhere between two to five per cent depending on which study you read, and when it doesn’t work for us, most of us believe that we failed the diet. Truthfully, the diet failed us. Biological processes will override

HEALTH

willpower and discipline every single time. Ironically, it’s only when we let go of the control around food and learn to surrender to our natural instincts that the binge eating, emotional eating and what often feels like food addiction naturally fade away. This pathway allows us to re-connect with our bodies and tune into our physical and emotional needs. It allows us to make decisions from a place of authenticity without feeling guilt, shame or judgement for what we ‘should be’ eating according to diet culture.

I myself was a chronic yo-yo dieter in my 20s and most of my 30s and found the struggle of permanently trying to shrink my body to fit with our cultural ideal extremely destructive, both physically and psychologically. Eating intuitively was my route to peace and freedom around food and now I help other women do the same.

What you gain is sanity around food; more time, energy and confidence to pursue more meaningful life goals than the number on the scale or the size of our clothes. And isn’t that what we should all be aiming for?

To learn more about Intuitive Eating, visit gillianmccollum.com where you can also find out about Gillian’s online coaching and local body positive yoga classes.

Four steps to eating intuitively 1. EAT WHEN YOU’RE HUNGRY If you’re hungry, your body is telling you it needs more fuel so eat enough to feel full. Then stop until you feel hungry again. If you find it hard to feel your hunger impulses, start with three meals a day and a few snacks in between while you learn to identify the signals.

2. ENJOY YOUR FOOD If you’re not emotionally satisfied with what you’re eating, the impulse to binge won’t go away so don’t kid yourself that filling up on carrots and rice cakes is going to cut it. Allow yourself food that brings you pleasure.

3. DROP THE LABELS Thinking of food as good or bad is not healthy, leading to thoughts like ‘stuff it, I’ve ruined the diet today anyway’ or ‘I deserve a treat tonight’. And where do those thoughts lead? An all-out binge.

4. BE KIND TO YOURSELF When you feel guilt and shame about the way you eat, your body knows a self-imposed famine is on the way.

And how does it respond? By demanding a binge. So drop the self-criticism and try self-compassion instead.

3> GOING VEGAN

Glasgow-based influencer and fitness blogger Stefanie Moir on how adopting a plant-based diet is more than just a food fad

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hen I became vegan six years ago, I had already been a vegetarian for most of my teenage years and wanted to make a move to eating as healthily as possible since I was becoming more involved in fitness.

I started switching out dairy products for non-dairy alternatives and as I began experimenting with recipes, I found a new love for food and cooking.

As I was pursuing ever-increasing fitness goals, my family were concerned I wouldn’t be able to fuel my body properly with a vegan diet but I actually feel the fittest, healthiest and strongest I have ever felt. In fact, contrary to what they feared, living a plant-based lifestyle has only ever helped me achieve my fitness goals.

Eating plant-based meals is not about deprivation and restriction; you are not ‘giving up’ anything by eating more plant-based, you’re switching it up instead. My main takeaway from plant-based living would be don’t over complicate it, make healthy choices and cook easy recipes that you and your whole family will love. Don’t be like 2013 me, trying to get all fancy following a horrendously complicated Pinterest recipe for cauliflower crust pizza and serving up slop on a plate.

It’s important to eat a well-balanced diet with variety; lots of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, legumes and beans. And you can still treat yourself. I am somewhat of a chocoholic and going vegan hasn’t changed that. I make lots of homemade desserts and you can find vegan desserts in the supermarket these days too.

I know from personal experience that the hardest part about making any kind of change to your life – whether it be your diet, working out, your job, your relationships – is the social aspect. Eating healthily or even using the word ‘VEGAN’ is still such a foreign concept to many that you might experience some concerns or backlash at first.

People can often think that being vegan means you live off nothing but lettuce and telling someone you are going plant-based or vegan might seem daunting, but their reluctance to support you often comes from a place of concern – they think it is unhealthy when it can actually be quite the opposite.

And to the doubters, remind them that veganism isn’t a ‘fad’ – it’s been around for a lot longer than I have; it’s just a healthy modern way of eating which could have benefits far beyond your own reach. Surely that makes it worth trying.

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EATING PLANT-BASED MEALS IS NOT ABOUT DEPRIVATION AND RESTRICTION; YOU ARE NOT ‘GIVING UP’ ANYTHING BY EATING MORE PLANT-BASED, YOU’RE SWITCHING IT UP INSTEAD”

Naturally Stefanie: Recipes, Workouts and Daily Rituals for a Stronger, Happier You by Stefanie Moir is out now, priced £16.99.

HEALTH BROWNIES – WITH A HEALTHY TWIST. ONCE A CHEEKY LITTLE SNACK, THESE ARE PROTEIN-PACKED AND FULL OF NUTRIENTS, GOOD FOR THE BODY AND SOUL.”

> Now try this...

Naturally Stefanie’s Almond and sea salt black bean brownies INGREDIENTS (Makes 10): • 65g almond flour or ground almonds • 20g coconut oil • 1 x tin of black beans, drained and rinsed • 150g coconut sugar • 60ml almond milk • 90g raw cacao powder • 60g chocolate protein powder or • substitute with 60g of flour • 60g almond butter • Toppings: • 200g vegan dark chocolate • handful of almonds • 1 tsp sea salt

METHOD: 1. Preheat the oven to 160ºC and grease or line a rectangular baking tin with baking paper.

2. Blend the brownie ingredients together in a blender until a smooth batter is formed.

3. Pour the brownie mixture into the lined tin and cook in the oven for 60 minutes. Check the brownies are cooked by inserting a thinbladed knife into the centre of the tin. If the knife comes out clean, they are ready.

4. While the brownies cool, melt the chocolate in a bowl over a pan of boiling water or microwave. Pour the melted chocolate over the brownies, then scatter over the almonds and sea salt.

5. Pop the tin in the fridge for at least an hour, overnight if possible, then remove and cut into squares.

For more delicious vegan recipes from Naturally Stefanie, visit www.ionmagazine.co.uk.

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SPECIAL COLLAB

Scandi brand Acne Studios has teamed up with luxury fashion brand Mulberry to create a limited-edition capsule collection of bags and small leather goods. You’ll find styles including the black Micro Musubi Bayswater with origami knot (pictured) in the Edinburgh and Glasgow stores or online at www.mulberry.com. Prices range from £90 to £1,295.

I-ON LOVES…

… this turban style cashmere hat, designed in Edinburgh and knitted in a family-run mill in the Scottish Borders. £99 at www.rosiesugden.com

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DROP YOUR NEED-TO-KNOW FASHION NEWS

BRAND OF THE MONTH Solace London

WHAT IS IT? An ultrafeminine British label blending contemporary tailoring with bold but wearable dresses and separates.

WHERE DO YOU GET IT? You’ll find the Resort 2020 collection at Jane Davidson, 52 Thistle Street, EH2 1EN.

WHY WE RATE IT... Pushing boundaries with affordable luxury that everyone wants to wear, Solace London knows how to make meticulously crafted show-stopping dresses in flattering cuts and graphic prints. Celebs from J. Lo to Oprah and Beyoncé have all been spied in the beautiful gowns and now you too can get your hands on the designs at Jane Davidson, Edinburgh.

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RED ALERT

Heading out for Burns night?

Make a statement in the matching Holland Cooper full-length Marlborough trench, £849, and high-waisted peg trouser, £229.

Tartan never looked so good. www.hollandcooper.com

FASHION

THERE’S STILL TIME TO….

…shop party wear, knitwear and coats at the KITRI pop-up in Harvey Nichols Edinburgh. You’ll be able to find an edit of cool and exclusive staples from the London-based brand until 31 January. KITRI Fiona absinthe midi dress, £145.

RAINY SEASON

We’ve found the perfect transeasonal jacket from Norse Projects, a classic two-pocket rain parka with a detachable High Performance fleece liner so you look perfectly stylish come rain or shine. Elias Cambric cotton jacket, £525, www.frontiers-man.com.

FIVE MINUTES WITH…

KIRSTY THOMAS We grabbed a quick chat with the designer behind creative studio Tom Pigeon What’s the story behind your brand? We make simple things for people to enjoy. Our work is handcrafted, colourful and explores geometry, colour and playful form.

WEEKEND WARDROBE

For effortless style, team this Part Two Viveca long knitted dress with your favourite white leather trainers. Also available in grey and black. £89.95 at www.biscuit.clothing.

You’re renowned for statement prints but you also have a stunning jewellery collection. Tell us more.

We work on new collections and pieces all the time and don’t really create seasonal ranges. Our designs are timeless rather than fashion items.

Where is it made? Everything is created in our studio on the east coast of Scotland. We have a tiny but brilliant team of jewellers who assemble each item and work with Scottish manufacturers and craftspeople to create our component parts.

Where can people find your designs? We work with The Red Door Gallery and Lifestory in Edinburgh and you can buy the whole collection at www.tompigeon.com. Prices start from £20.

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FEATURES

MYSTYLE

Fiona Brown

The stylish store manager of West End women’s boutique Oska on ’80s fashion faux-pas, Dr. Martens and androgynous dressing WHERE IT ALL BEGAN I used to love watching The Clothes Show when I was growing up and I wanted to be Caryn Franklin.

I went on to study fashion and textiles, and I’ve worked for several prestigious companies including Harvey Nichols, Amanda Wakeley and Jane Davidson in Edinburgh. Each of these companies gave me an invaluable education in what it takes to become a professional fashion retail manager.

STYLE INSPIRATION Women who have their own unique look inspire me, like Tilda Swinton, Iris Apfel and Instagram star Lyn Slater (@iconaccidental). They are stylish rather than fashionable which makes them so much more interesting. People watching is one of the best ways to see new trends and ideas emerging. As you wander around Edinburgh, you see lots of different style identities; from the classically dressed ladies of Morningside and New Town, to the more experimental residents of Leith.

SIGNATURE LOOK Casual and tomboyish. I think the androgynous look on women is a way to feel empowered without being cliché. I love nothing more than being out and about in a slouchy jumper, jeans, Dr. Martens and a long Oska scarf (pictured) to keep the winter chill out. Working for German label Oska is a good fit

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for my style as the look is all about layering, playing with interesting silhouettes, and finishing them off with a pair of chunky boots or brogues.

FASHION NO-NO I know shoulder pads and power dressing are back, but I say, we should leave them in the ’80s where they belong. Get yourself a great oversized mannish coat and chunky boots instead.

WARDROBE MUST-HAVE Great quality shoes will make you feel amazing and last and last. Dr Martens smooth leather lace-ups are my saviours when I’m on my feet all day. There are many wannabes but you can’t beat the real thing.

WHERE TO SHOP Frontiers Woman, our neighbour on Stafford Street, has the most amazing curated collections from bright cashmere sweaters to funky footwear.

IN 10 YEARS’ TIME I’m hoping to do some more studying in the field of fashion. I think it’s important to focus on something outside of work.

To find out more about Oska on 17 Stafford Street, Edinburgh, visit www.gb.oska.com.

SALE up to 50% instore & Online 23 FREDERICK STREET | 20 BRUNTSFIELD PLACE

www.nordicoutdoor.co.uk

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FEATURES

THE BUY OF THE DECADE

Local interiors experts on the piece worth investing in to see you through the next 10 years in style and comfort

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INTERIORS

THE DESIGN CLASSIC

“Y

ou can’t go wrong with classic Danish design. We love the laid back, effortless style of the Sibast No 7 Lounge Chair, £1, 380, which is truly timeless (pictured opposite). Inspired by the original Sibast No 7 dining chair by Helge Sibast in 1953, the lounge chair is a new twist on the original, re-interpreted by Sibast’s grandson, Ditlev, and his wife, Anna, more than 60 years later. As beautiful as is comfortable, it’s the perfect choice for the new decade and beyond.”

Sofie & Mogens Kleberg, owners of Nordic Living, www.mynordicliving.co.uk.

THE SHEEPSKIN RUG

>

“W

hen buying an accessory for the home, I take into account the versatility of that item and like spending my money on something that is multi-functional. I have a few sheepskins rugs in our home and couldn’t do without them. They have so many uses from decorative to comfort, acting as a cosy rug underfoot next to a bed, in front of a wood burner, or tossed across an armchair. I even have one in my daughter’s cot. The thick fleece keeps her warm on cold winter nights.

Toast’s Gotland sheepskin rug, £395, is the next one on my wishlist. It has a wonderful quality and softness and feels so indulgent.”

Edinburgh-based influencer Siobhan McFadden, follow on Instagram @home_stead.

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INTERIORS

THE SCULPTURAL TABLE

“I

loved the Clay Table by Desalto the second I laid eyes on it. Its unique sculptural form blurs the line between functional furniture and art. Aside from being an impressive focal point to break bread over, it is a thing of beauty; strong yet elegant and embounded with tactile patina making it a feast for the senses. It carries a weighty price tag of £3,900 so if you’re looking for an investment piece, then this would be a very fine legacy to pass on. For those of you who love sculptural furniture but can’t quite stretch to such a hefty price, La Redoute’s collection of carved, black stained mango wood side tables, from £95, are a brilliant and accessible way to introduce those artistic lines into your home.”

Interior designer Emily Smoor of Fantoush, www.fantoush.com.

SCOTTISH TEXTILES

“T

he new decade should be all about supporting local designers. I love investing in luxury modern Scottish textiles that exude colour, pattern and texture.

Glasgow’s Timorous Beasties has always been my favourite – I love the Napoleon Bee wallpaper which adorns my hallway, linking the space with the outside in a fun way, and I have my eye on the velvet cushion too, £100.

Another recent discovery is Edinburgh-based Mairi Helena, whose artful, abstract fabrics I used to upholster a pair of stools to add a pop of colour to my lounge.”

Interiors influencer Arantza Elosua, follow on Instagram @homefunkyhome.

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INTERIORS

THE SMART MEMO BOARD

“F

rom Alexa to Nest, homes will just keep getting smarter with technology playing a bigger role in the way our homes run in the coming years.

I really fancy one of these Vestaboards (from £1,893, www.vestaboard.com). They’ve got that perfect combination of old school charm combined with new technology. It’s a lovely, satisfying, mechanical split-flap display that you used to find at railway stations but you programme what it says from an app on your phone, so you can leave messages, quotes or reminders to do homework. You could also just send a text, but this is way more fun and looks super-stylish on your wall.”

Interiors photographer Susie Lowe, www.susielowestudio.com.

THE STATEMENT BAR CART

“D

rinks trolleys have become a glamorous addition to many stylish homes over the last few years but we’ve never seen one as beautiful as this design by Tom Faulkner, £2,940. Inspired by a trip to Joshua Tree national park, and coloured and named after butterflies, the new Papillon collection is something very special. Sure it’s functional furniture, but it’s also a work of art. Constructed from water cut steel, the swooping lines mimic the veins of butterfly wings and each is individually coloured with a beautiful ombre gradation. The final show-stopping touch is the addition of dichroic glass which is iridescent, changing and twinkling as the light shifts throughout the day.”

Jo Aynsley, head of design, Jeffreys Interiors, www.jeffreys-interiors.co.uk. *Jeffreys are hosting an evening with Tom Faulkner on the 20 February. Free tickets are limited. To find out more email design@jeffreys-interiors.co.uk.

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0131 337 2579 | 51-57 dalry road, edinburgh, eh11 2bx Multi Award-Winning Kitchen & Bathroom Design Studio developmentdirect.co.uk

a division of

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Craft your s own candle

Love a luxury scented candle but no cash to treat yourself this month?

Have a go at making your own with a little help from Edinburgh-based influencer Alice aka The Paleo Peach.

Visit her blog www.paleopeach.com/ candles for a super-simple tutorial.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERCOL! It’s 100 years since the founding of iconic British furniture brand Ercol, known for their mid-century designs and sleek contemporary collections. Watch out for some very special collaborations and limitededition collections to celebrate the anniversary year. www.ercol.com.

HOM E

REPORT Interiors news and what to buy now

A TOUCH OF LUXURY

If there was ever a time to get cosy, it’s now. Take your winter nights to the next level with a cashmere and lambswool throw from the new limited edition collection by Knockando Woolmill Scotland. Available in three shades inspired by the Highland landscape, the Whisper of Cashmere throw is the perfect investment piece. £420, www.kwc.co.uk.

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FEELING BLUE?

You should be because Classic Blue is the 2020 Pantone colour of the year. Embrace the trend with chic furnishings in the rich midnight tone like this elegant sofa. £1,850, www.rockettstgeorge.co.uk.

W H I T E C R A I G S

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An exclusive development of just six breathtaking new homes Broom Grove is nestled within the muchloved Broom Estate in Whitecraigs, one of Scotlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prestigious and desireable areas. The new homes have been designed to incorporate the same striking architecture and design hallmarks to blend seamlessly into this conservation area.

Broom Grove features a prestigious choice of 4 and 5-bedroom luxury homes, prices from ÂŁ955,000 for 5-bedroom detached villa, The Lorimer.

Please contact us or visit our website for full details.

The 5-bedroom Lorimer

The indicative external images shown are of typical versions of Mactaggart & Mickel house types.

The specification depicted may vary to that in the version of this house type at Broom Grove.

07855 113 120 macmic.co.uk

Delivering the best to you since 1925

FEATURES i-on LOVES…

…Sanda aromatherapy eye pillows. Handmade from organic linen, these pretty pillows come in seven gorgeous scents, including Eucalyptus & Peppermint to awaken the senses and Lavender & Chamomile for deep relaxation and peaceful sleep. £22 at www.sandafeelgood.com.

BEAUTY EXPERT

BEAUTYNOTES

Featuring Jake Xu, co-founder of men’s beauty brand Shakeup Cosmetics

Must-try products and treatments

Three winter saviours…

1

1. A pH-balanced organic, SLS-free shampoo like Green People’s Moisturising Shampoo, £13.50 for 200ml, will keep your hair hydrated and your scalp healthy.

2

Our best sellers are… Eye Eye Captain Under Eye Concealer and Moisturiser. Almost every customer we described the product to said, ‘Oh, I could do with that!’

The mission of the brand is… to challenge gender stereotypes, reject toxic masculinity, and embrace a new era of men’s beauty. For us, men wearing cosmetics is an exciting reality.

We want to embrace it. Our customers are self-care loving modern men.

2. This rich Shea Butter hand cream by L’Occitane will nourish and soften dry skin. Now available in colourful limited edition packaging by OMY, £21.50.

3. An antioxidant packed blend of moisturising and skin soothing essential oils, Neom Wonder Balm, £15, is a little pot of wonder for skin, lips and dry patches, whenever they need some TLC.

The difference between men and women’s skin… male skin is, on average, 20 to 25 per cent thicker than female skin. Sebum production is double that of women so male skin is oilier too.

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COMING SOON…

Detox Health Beauty Festival is back at Archerfield Walled Garden on Saturday 16 May with a beautiful line-up of health, natural beauty and wellbeing experts. Early bird tickets and 25% off the full £30 ticket price available from 31 January at www.detoxhealthbeauty.com.

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We launched a men’s beauty brand because… there’s a clear lack of choice when it comes to premium cosmetic products specifically designed for men’s skin.

My top beauty tip is… always wear sun screen and UV protection.

My grooming essentials are… Medik8 Daily Radiance Vitamin C cream, The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid serum, Shakeup Cosmetics Let’s Face It BB tinted Moisturiser SPF 20, Shakeup Cosmetics Eye Eye Captain Under Eye Concealer and Medik8 Crystal Retinol 3 night serum.

Shakeup Cosmetics are now available at Harvey Nichols Edinburgh or online at www.themodernman.co.uk.

IT’S A LIFESTYLE CHOICE

Strengthen your body, calm your mind.

State-of-the-art gym and fitness studio, 19m indoor pool and Edinburgh’s only thermal spa with rooftop Hydropool and Himalayan Salt Room.

MEMBERSHI PS AVA IL A B L E

8 Conference Square, Edinburgh EH3 8AN | 0131 221 7777 | onespa.com

EDINBURGH WELLBEING FESTIVAL 1st & 2nd February 2020 Assembly Rooms Edinburgh

CONVERSATIONS

DAME KELLY HOLMES MBE DR RANGAN CHATTERJEE GELONG THUBTEN JACK MONROE FELIX BUXTON MAX LA MANNA GOT SOUL CHOIR MARYAM GHAFFARI

FITNESS CLASSES ANNIE CLARKE DAME KELLY HOLMES MBE HOLLIE GRANT FAISAL ABDALLA BRAXTON With Talks & Workshops from Amy Lane, Emma Dempsey, Kimberley Wilson & Kate Swaine, Professor David Nutt, Two Chubby Cubs, Micheal Ulloa, New Norm, Weleda, Edinburgh Fermentarium, Holistic Scotland and many more.

OUR PARTNERS

TICKETS ON SALE NOW: www.edinburghwellbeingfestival.com

BEAUTY

YOUR DNA IS NOT YOUR DESTINY Dr Laura Freeman, the new lifestyle medicine physician at Dr Nestor Medical Centre, explains why…

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ou can keep trying to pass the buck to your parents/grandparents and blame them for your weak immune system, high blood pressure or increasing levels of stress, but we have news for you. Nowadays, we can take control of our own destiny to a large extent. We live in a fast-paced, modern world and with that comes science and ample opportunity to explore new ways to stop your genes in their tracks.

And that’s what the team at Dr Nestor’s Medical Centre is all about.“Your DNA is not your destiny is a phrase I came across when studying and it has really changed the way I talk about optimal health with my patients,” says lifestyle medicine physician, Dr Laura.

“It is such a powerful phrase which encapsulates my approach to practising lifestyle medicine. We know that it is simply not true that in many cases, if for example, your mother had heart disease you will too or if your grandfather has diabetes then you will too. In fact, DNA accounts for only 10-20% of variance in your health. Lifestyle factors mainly diet but also exercise, sleep and stress - account for 70-90%.

“Most of us have the capacity to live well into our 90s and to do so in good health. My passion and my goal is to help patients make the best choices with their lifestyle habits to achieve this.”

From the new and innovative Lifestyle Medicine clinic in Dr Nestor’s on Dundas Street, Dr Laura focuses on nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management and positive relationships. “Lifestyle Medicine focuses on the root causes of illness, not just managing symptoms,” she says. “It uses the best available science to prevent, treat and often reverse disease. Our current health care system only allows for people to see their doctor when they are sick - this is reactive medicine. I work closely with my patients to help them realise that they can proactively take control of their health. With coaching and education, I empower and equip them with the tools and motivation to live happy, healthier lives.”

Find out more about Lifestyle Medicine at Dr Nestor’s Medical Cosmetic Centre, 53 Dundas St, EH3 6RS, 0131 467 1450, www.drnestor.co.uk. Dr Nestor also offers award-winning skin treatments and specialises in injectables and fillers.

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BEAUTY

TRIED&TESTED THE BODY BLITZ

Amy Falconer signs up for an intense Callanetics course with amazing results

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dinburgh-based Callanetics instructor Keira Thorley has come up with the perfect solution for busy schedules (or those days when you just can’t face leaving the house) - live online Callanetics classes. Created back in the 80s, Callanetics is a system of exercises focussing on frequent repetitions of small, precise movements that work on deep set muscle groups, to achieve a long, lean and relaxed body. Keira’s Body Blitz is 10 classes across 14 days which, she claims, guarantees you will drop a dress size. She encourages you to do a mix of studiobased and online for the best results. It’s hard work but I find the ease of the online system really helps me stick to the schedule. You simply book a class, receive an online link and hey presto Keira’s class is beamed into your own home. I can also confirm that her huge claim is true – much to my surprise, I did drop a dress size – all that sweating and shaking in my living room was well worth it!

The Body Blitz usually costs £90 but quote i-on when booking for an exclusive 20 per cent off. Or, try a drop-in class for just £14. More info at www.walkthetalkstudios.com or email info@walkthestudios.com.

THE NEXT GENERATION IN FACIAL REJUVENATION A new facial promises age-defying effects without the need for needles

Got a special event coming up? Get red-carpet ready skin with the new COMCIT facial now available at Edinburgh salon Blossom Beauty. Fast becoming their most talked about treatment, COMCIT treats ageing, dehydrated skin with results that are simply staggering providing an instant, perfect dewy glow. As chemicalintensive treatments such as muscle relaxants and fillers increasingly fall out of favour, these kind of non-surgical or so called ‘Notox’ facials are a new age-defying alternative heralding a move away from injections and fillers. Crystal Clear COMCIT ™ is the first of its kind anywhere in the world. The treatment costs £70 per session and results can be seen immediately but a course of 6 is recommended for best results. To take advantage of an exclusive discount, don’t miss the launch event on 15 January where there will also be free fizz and nibbles.

Blossom Beauty, 5 Beaufort Rd, Marchmont, EH9 1AG. www.blossombeauty.co

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46 George Street 0131 220 0777 3 Drumsheugh Place 0131 225 2234 39 Lothian Road 0131 228 9977 45 York Place 0131 558 1010 2 Bruntsfield Avenue 0131 478 3522 www.cheyneshairdressing.com

Cheynes Colour Specialists

All colouring in February along with a cut & style.

Let a Cheynes colour specialist design a colour perfect for you.

WHERE TO EAT IN 2020

The i-on team shares their foodie hit list for the year ahead

THE LOOKOUT

BY GARDENER’S COTTAGE Nicky Murdoch, editor

“

With an unrivalled location on top of Calton Hill, The Lookout

by Gardener’s Cottage is seriously impressive with spectacular views across the city to match. Inside, it’s cool, understated and contemporary allowing the floor to ceiling windows that frame Edinburgh’s iconic skyline to do the talking. An open kitchen lets you see everything behind the scenes, but it’s the innovative food that makes this restaurant, quite literally, worth the hike – if you’re not dropped off by taxi it’s about a five-minute walk uphill from Waterloo Place. With daily changing menus, you can expect only the finest, seasonal produce from local fields and farms presented in the most unexpected of ways. Choose from a set lunch, à la carte or tasting menu, and if you get the chance, like I did during the festive period, try the Orkney Scallop, parsnip and vadouvan followed by the Borders pheasant, Jerusalem artichoke and brussel sprouts... Divine! Great food, superb wine and service. And those views...”

The Lookout by Gardener’s Cottage, Calton Hill, Edinburgh, EH7 5AA, 0131 322 1246, www.thelookoutedinburgh.co.

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FOOD AND DRINK

LE ROI FOU Laura Wood, director

“

A bunch of friends-in-the-know raved about Le Roi Fou when it opened on Forth Street two years ago and I’ve been keen to go ever since. I finally made it there at the end of October for a catch up over dinner and they were right to say only good things about this place. Le Roi Fou (The Mad King) offers a great dining experience in a grown-up environment. It’s not a bar or bistro that serves food; it’s a chic restaurant that balances being informal yet serious about what it does really well. Go for the great wine list, fabulous food and service, and relaxed vibe. And do yourself a favour by ordering the octopus, tomato and fennel starter from the a la carte menu. If you like seafood, you’d be mad not to.”

Le Roi Fou, 1 Forth St, Edinburgh, EH1 3JX, 0131 557 9346, www.leroifou.com.

INVER Carrie Mitchell, features editor

“

A remote fisherman’s cottage on the banks of Loch Fyne might not be where you would expect to find one of Scotland’s most exciting restaurants but Inver has been garnering rave reviews since it opened in 2015. Rather frustratingly, I still haven’t managed to make it over there, a fact made all the more troubling when it seems like every time I look on Instagram, another of my friends has paid a visit to the intimate dining room then had a sleepover in one of the cute little bothies. So, I’ve decided enough is enough, 2020 is the year. I’m going to celebrate my 40th with a blissful evening enjoying Pam Brunton’s now legendary menu before holing up in a bothy with my husband, a bottle of wine and Fleetwood Mac on repeat on the turntable. Bliss.”

Inver restaurant, Strachlachlan, Strachur, Argyll & Bute, PA27 8BU, 01369 860 537, www.inverrestaurant.co.uk.

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FOOD AND DRINK

STACK & STILL Graham Turner, digital content editor

“

The Glasgow pancake house has been nothing short of a revelation since opening in mid-2018. To this day, it reduces my friends to tears of joy at the mere mention of its name. Alas, I have yet to try the gastronomic delights of this fluffy, golden mecca and its – I’m not even joking –10 million pancake combinations. With a new branch opening last October at Glasgow Fort, I will be heading there in the new year to belie any ill-conceived resolutions with regards to my body and its temple-like status.”

Stack & Still, 100-108 West George St, Glasgow, G2 1PJ, www.stackandstill.co.uk

THE IVY GLASGOW Amanda Southey, business development manager.

“

I’m a huge fan of The Ivy in the capital so I’ve high hopes for its sister restaurant on Buchanan Street. Set across two fabulous floors, the brasserie and restaurant look amazing and the onyx bars seem the perfect spot for locally-inspired cocktails. On the menu there’s everything from heritage tomato and feta salad with avocado, watermelon, pistachio and olives to lobster linguine and chargrilled halloumi with Padrón peppers. There’s an extensive Champagne and wine list, DJs and musicians every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Cheers to that!”

The Ivy Glasgow, 106 Buchanan St, Glasgow, G1 2NB, 0141 378 1200, www.theivyglasgow.com

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Be Creative

For the widest range of authentic natural baking ingredients instore and online

www.realfoods.co.uk 37 Broughton Street & 8 Brougham Street organic

•

plant based

•

vegan

•

vegetarian

AUL D A L L IA NC E B U RN S S U PPER Join us in the celebration of Burns night by experiencing a delicious themed three course Burns Night supper, including tea and coffee plus entertainment throughout.

Then end the night with a wee dram and relax in the cosy surroundings of Hotel du Vin Edinburgh.

FRI DAY 25 TH JAN UARY 7PM £27.95 PE R PE RSON

Including a three course meal with tea, coffee and wee dram.

Please contact us today to book to avoid disappointment and don't forget to wear your best tartan!

events.edinburgh@hotelduvin.com 01312 851 479

HOTELDUVIN.com

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FOOD AND DRINK

THE NEWPORT Amy Falconer, account director

“

I loved Jamie Scott on MasterChef: The Professionals and his restaurant with rooms in the heart of Newport on Tay, Fife, is high on my foodie hit list. The fine dining destination opened in 2016 and won the coveted AA Restaurant of the Year Award 2018-19. It also has some great views over River Tay and across Dundee and promises some of the best sunsets in Scotland. On Friday and Saturday evenings, they exclusively serve their tasting menus which cater for all tastes with vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian options available. I might need to make a night of it and stay over too.”

The Newport Restaurant, 1 High St, Newport-on-Tay DD6 8AB, 01382 541449, www.thenewportrestaurant.co.uk

THE HONOURS Jo Morris, director

“

I’ve waxed lyrical many a time about my love affair with The Honours so I’m looking forward to indulging my love at The Honours Uncovered on 22 January where a small group of fans (I mean customers) will meet for tea and coffee at 10 before splitting into two groups of 12. The first group will watch the cocktail demonstration in the bar area with the in-house mixologist, while the other group will follow the food demonstration by the Head Chef before swapping groups.

All that tough fan-girling will be rewarded with a three course lunch including a glass of wine and tea or coffee – and all for £65 per head.”

The Honours, 58A N Castle St, Edinburgh EH2 3LU, www.thehonours.co.uk

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3 for 2 on small plates throughout January & February 6 M a r ke t S t re e t Ed i n b u r g h E H 1 1 D E seeyou@norlof t.co.uk 0131 322 9229 norloft.co.uk @norloft

i-on loves…

The Johnnie & Elderflower, pairing Johnnie Walker Black label whisky with a touch of elderflower cordial and a dash of a soda. This lighter twist on Scotland’s national drink is just the thing to toast the Bard on Burns night.

The Burns and Beyond festival, sponsored by Johnnie Walker, will be coming to Edinburgh from 21 January until 09 February. For tickets and more information, visit www.burnsandbeyond.com.

TAKE THREE… NEW ITALIAN RESTAURANTS TERRA MARIQUE

This new upmarket Italian eatery on Edinburgh’s Castle Street is aiming to offer something a little different to your average trattoria or pizza place. In fact, you won’t find any pizza on the menu at all.

Instead, expect a selection of dishes from fresh pasta, gnocchi and risotto to local beef, veal and seafood. www.terra-marique.co.uk

SUGO

The owners of Glasgow’s favourite pizza spot, Paesano have opened the doors to their new pasta restaurant, Sugo, located in the iconic Charles Rennie Mackintosh Building on Mitchell Street and serving up the freshest pasta made according to traditional recipes served in the varying regions of Italy.

LEONARDO’S

The sister of established Hamilton restaurant, Leonardo’s in Glasgow’s Southside is a traditional family eatery, nestled on the corner of Paisley Road West promising a cosy environment, affordable prices and authentic recipes. leonardosglasgow.co.uk

ON THE FOOD

RADAR New openings, must-try menus and foodie finds

SHOP LOCAL

Despite our best intentions, swapping the supermarket for local shops just seems a logistical nightmare – until now. Thanks to a new Edinburgh-based online grocery shop, you can buy everything from butchery to beer, fish to fruit and veg, chocolate to coffee, all from local independent retailers (like the fabulous East Coast Cured, pictured). Best of all, everything is delivered to your door in either reusable, compostable or recyclable packaging. It’s the 2020 way to shop. Check out www.schop.co for more info.

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FOOD AND DRINK

ARTFUL DINING

Following a makeover, the café at Modern Two in the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art has become Paolozzi’s Kitchen. The colourful pop-art inspired interiors and Italianinfluenced menu are inspired by acclaimed Scottish artist Eduardo Paolozzi, whose 24ft high Vulcan sculpture takes pride of place in the restaurant. Open 10am – 4.30pm, Monday to Sunday. www.heritageportfolio.co.uk/cafes

SALUTI!

Edinburgh might seem an odd place from which to launch a new wine but East Lothian-based family The Di Ciaccas have returned to their Italian roots to create the country’s first organic Lazia Maturano. I Ciacca Nostalgia IGT Lazio Maturano (2017) is a lively, golden-coloured and medium bodied dry white with notes of orange blossom and grapefruit. £19.99, www.valvonaandcrolla.co.uk.

FIVE MINUTES WITH…

JESSICA ELLIOTT DENNISON, Food writer and owner of Edinburgh bistro 27 Elliott’s How did you end up running your own restaurant? I’ve always been obsessed with feeding people, setting the table, creating a playlist, lighting candles and pouring a nice bottle of wine. I’m one of life’s feeders and worked as a food stylist before I spotted a gap for my relaxed style of hospitality in Edinburgh.

What made you want to write your own recipe books? Friends asking for my recipes all the time made me think I might be able to offer something helpful in a book format. Editing Tin Can Magic during the festival while also running 27 Elliott’s was a juggle but customer reactions to flavours, dishes and ideas made the whole process far easier than my first book, Salad Feasts.

What’s your food philosophy? Simple is always best. For me, good, seasonal ingredients prepared with minimal faff and good seasoning is far more enjoyable than complicated techniques and overly long ingredients lists. Tin Can Magic is about creating beautiful, indulgent meals that only cost a few quid, like the tomato sugo pasta or sage and white wine butter beans.

And what’s your ultimate food heaven? Something simple like roast chicken and anchovy aioli, a bottle of natural wine, some good sourdough and a simple green salad.

Tin Can Magic by Jessica Elliott Dennison (Hardie Grant, £15) is out now.

Photography by Matt Russell.

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Photography by Marc Millar

FEATURES

Meet the Maker

Introducing the faces behind our favourite local foods WHO Claire Drysdale, Managing Director of Brigston & Co WHAT We make artisan hot dogs from the best quality Scottish beef flank and pork shoulder. Our secret recipe of 10 herbs and spices and gentle smoking with beechwood creates an exceptional flavour. We sell the hot dogs wholesale and retail and also from our food truck at various festivals throughout Scotland.

WHY My husband and I started the business in 2016 after noticing a trend away from fast food to gourmet street food. People were looking for quality products with provenance so we decided to give the humble hot dog a makeover and give the gourmet burger a run for its money.

HOW After researching the idea for 12 months, we set up the business pretty quickly with a small loan. We booked the food truck into a local festival before we had even sourced a food truck so we had very little time to get everything organised. Fortunately, we have 30 years’ experience in the food industry between us so we used a lot of the skills we had learned over the years.

SIGNATURE DISH We love our Scottie Dog topped with local haggis, Lockerbie Cheddar and homemade chutney; the flavours work so well together.

FRIDGE FAVOURITES There’s always homemade harissa, pesto, alioli and houmous in there. I love Mediterranean and North African

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flavours and like to make dips and dressings to keep in the fridge and use with pastas and salads.

FOODIE SHOPS We love Loch Arthur Organic Farm Shop only few miles away from where we live. We also have lots of great farmers’ markets, butchers, fish and game suppliers such as Barony Country Foods in Dumfries and Galloway so we try to buy local as much as possible.

EATING OUT We love The Finnieston and the Crabshakk in Glasgow and Bross Bagels in Leith. It’s important to support independent Scottish businesses who provide great quality local produce.

Find out more at www.brigston.co.uk.

Brigston & Co hot dogs can be found on the menu at the Innis and Gunn Brewery Taprooms in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

QUICKFIRE QUIZ

Sweet or savoury? I have an awful habit of craving sweet food after savoury and savoury food after sweet. A terrible vicious cycle which is not good for the waistline.

Caf or decaf? I like everything coffee flavoured apart from coffee itself.

Poached or scrambled? Poached maybe just clinches it.

Skinny fries or chunky chips?

I like a triple fried crispy, chunky chip that’s all fluffy in the middle.

Brown sauce or ketchup? I love that chippy brown sauce you get in Edinburgh, super vinegary!

DINING IN EDINBURGH? Don’t Miss The Honours by Martin Wishart, Edinburgh’s First Michelin starred Chef presents a modern interpretation of the Classic Parisian Brasserie.

Call 0131 220 2513 or visit our website thehonours.co.uk

Lunch 12:00pm – 2:00pm • Dinner 5:30pm - 10:00pm • Tuesday – Saturday Express Menu/Pre-theatre available • Lunch – dinner • £25.00 for three courses (Dinner 5:30pm – 6:30pm)63

BEST BITS

Coffee: The Hideout Café in Leith has the best coffee.

It’s somewhere I like to escape the crowds and get lost in a great book after a busy week.

Walk: A stroll along Portobello beach is the best way to relax, breathing in the sea air and (temperature-permitting) feeling the sand beneath my feet always brings a feeling of grounding and connecting to nature.

Pamper: A pedicure at NOW

by One Spa – the vibrant salon is right in the middle of town and open until 9pm making it ideal for an afterwork beauty fix.

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Burgers: The vegan aubergine falafel and curried onion burger at One Square Bar + Brasserie is super tasty and you can admire views of Edinburgh castle at the same time.

Photography by Mint and Chillies @mintandchillies

Date: The relaxed vibe in Dishoom makes it a great date night spot. Plus, the food is always incredible.

Dinner with pals: I love the food in Baba. The mezze plates are to die for and my friends and I usually end up ordering far too much.

THEBESTOFEDINBURGH

Jessy Fassler

Yogi and marketing manager at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa on her favourite city spots Shopping: The Eco Larder on Morrison Street is a social enterprise offering zero waste shopping. They sell everything from spices to cereals, fruit, vegetables and toiletries, all without the use of plastics.

Posh nosh: The food in Otro, in the West End, is simply delicious and always cooked to perfection and the service is impeccable.

Pizza: Pizzeria 1926 in Dalry does amazing pizza. Their buffalo mozzarella is the best I’ve tasted too.

Remote working: I live in Portobello and Miro’s on the Promenade is a great spot with sea views, amazing cakes, teas and coffees.

Me-time: Calm on Canning Street in the West End has a wonderful community feel and the yoga classes are taught by amazing and passionate teachers.

Follow Jessy on Instagram @jessyfassler or visit www.jessyfassler.com.

Edinburghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such an amazing city but we also love to escape to South Queensferry.

We love this shot of Dean Village last summer and the vibrant flowers.

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INSTA-INSIDER

Leith is one of our favourite areas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we captured these reflections on the Shore on a beautiful still day.

BLOGGERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS INDIA & HARRY CHOOSE THEIR #TOP9 Follow @edinburgh_highlights

One of our favourite shots of Edinburgh Castle

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We always try to get classic shots from different perspectives, like this unique view of the Balmoral from Scott Monument.

Blossom season is the perfect excuse to head to The Meadows for a stroll.

This shot of the sunset over The Crags is the perfect example of being in the right place at the right time.

We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pass by Chessels Court without stopping to admire this gorgeous heart shaped bush

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Edinburghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such an exciting place during the Festivals in August and we love heading up Calton Hill to watch the fireworks.

Host your luxury wedding at the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa St Andrews is the ultimate romantic destination. The AA Five Red Star Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa offers a truly iconic setting overlooking the world renowned Old Course, Swilcan Bridge and the stunning West Sands beach.

The perfect backdrop for your special day.

+44(0) 1334 468 181 www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk events@oldcoursehotel.co.uk

OLD COURSE HOTEL GOLF RESORT & SPA ST ANDREWS KINGDOM OF FIFE SCOTLAND KY16 9SP