Cardiff Life - Issue 180

Food/Arts/Entertainment/Shopping/Property ISSUE 180 / FEBRUARY 2018 / £3 @CardiffLifeMag

CELEBRATING THE BEST IN THE CITY, PENARTH & THE VALE

ISSUE 180 / FEBRUARY 2018 / A RIGHT ROYAL TO DO

STATE OF THE ARTS

EIGHT DATES YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS

SO MANY REASONS TO PONTCANNA

+

TEA TIME

MORE THAN YOUR AVERAGE CUPPA AT WATERLOO GARDENS

ROYAL

3 PAGESOF

FABULOUS PICTURES

TREATMENT

HARRY+ MEGHAN sparkle in Cardiff

editor’s letter / Issue 180 / FEBRUARY 2018

All change So, the more observant of you might have noticed a change in the photo above this little column. That’s because there’s a new editor at the helm of Cardiff Life – me! I can’t wait to get out there and get stuck into everything this fab city has to offer and, of course, get to know all the people and businesses which help make Cardiff Life great issue after issue.

If there’s anything you think we need to be featuring on the pages then please get in touch.

In this issue we’ve got some fab pics of when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle came to visit (did you brave the cold to catch a glimpse of the loved-up couple?), we look at some of the highlights of the arts calendar to come this season, and take a closer look at Pontcanna’s thriving indie scene and the people and places that make it special.

Also, it’s time to say a big congrats to all the finalists of the Cardiff Life Awards! I look forward to seeing you very soon!

Photo credit Walesonline

Trosglwyddo’r awenau

12

Picture perfect Prince Harry and Meghan Markle create a stir in Cardiff

Efallai fod y rhai mwyaf craff yn eich plith wedi sylwi ar y llun newydd sydd ar frig y golofn hon.

Y rheswm am hynny yw bod gan Cardiff Life olygydd newydd wrth y llyw, sef fi! Rwy’n edrych ymlaen yn eiddgar at weld popeth sydd gan y ddinas wych hon i’w gynnig ac, wrth gwrs, at gael dod i adnabod yr holl bobl a’r holl fusnesau sy’n helpu i greu rhifyn gwirioneddol wych o Cardiff Life o’r naill fis i’r llall. Cofiwch fod croeso i chi gysylltu os ydych yn credu bod angen i ni roi sylw i rywbeth arbennig ar ein tudalennau.

Yn y rhifyn hwn mae gennym rai lluniau bendigedig o ymweliad y Tywysog Harry a Meghan Markle (tybed a fuoch chi’n sefyll am oriau yn yr oerfel i weld y pâr cariadus?), rydym yn rhoi sylw i rai o uchafbwyntiau calendr y celfyddydau eleni, ac rydym yn bwrw golwg fanylach ar siopau annibynnol llewyrchus Pontcanna a’r bobl a’r lleoedd sy’n gwneud yr ardal yn un mor arbennig.

Yn ogystal, mae’n bryd llongyfarch pawb sydd wedi cyrraedd rownd derfynol Gwobrau Cardiff Life! Rwy’n edrych ymlaen yn fawr at eich gweld i gyd yn fuan iawn!

EMMA DANCE Editor emma.dance@mediaclash.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @CardiffLifeMag

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e E D U C AT I O N

CONTENTS / ISSUE 180 / FEBRUARY 2018

MAIN FEATURES 12 Royal Visit Did you miss Harry and Meghan’s visit? No worries! We’ve got plenty of pics for you!

36 Pontcanna What makes this little ‘burb quite so special? We find out from those who know

36

M EET T H E T EAM Editor Emma Dance emma.dance@mediaclash.co.uk Managing editor Deri Robins deri.robins@mediaclash.co.uk Senior art editor Andrew Richmond Graphic design Megan Allison Cover design Trevor Gilham Contributors: Hugo Ball, Jamie Rees, Katie Kissoon, Nerys Lloyd-Pierce, Rhys Williams Advertising manager Mark George mark.george@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy advertising manager Kate Butterfield kate.butterfield@mediaclash.co.uk Account manager Lorena Cussens lorena.cussens@mediaclash.co.uk

THE ARTS 21 Intro Caryl Churchill’s A Number opens the spring season at The Other Room

Production and distribution manager Sarah Kingston sarah.kingston@mediaclash.co.uk Deputy production manager and production designer Kirstie Howe kirstie.howe@mediaclash.co.uk

22 What’s On Your month in culture, sorted

28 Arts Preview Eight dates from this season’s arts calendar you won’t want to miss

Chief executive Jane Ingham jane.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk Chief executive Greg Ingham greg.ingham@mediaclash.co.uk

32 Film

Cardiff Life, MediaClash, Circus Mews House, Circus Mews, Bath BA1 2PW; 01225 475800, mediaclash.co.uk, @The MediaClash

Megan Price on Chapter’s upcoming Paul Thomas Anderson season

© All rights reserved. May not be reproduced without written permission of MediaClash.

SHOPPING 44 Fashion Dressing for the office doesn’t have to be dull

48 Editor’s Choice Gifts to treat your loved one this V-Day. (Or just for yourself. We won’t judge)

FOOD 54 Restaurant There’s more to Waterloo Garden Tea House than just your run-ofthe-mill cuppa

58 Recipe Two tasty dishes inspired by far away flavours

OPINION

DEPARTMENTS

17 A man’s world

10 Spotlight

Blaine Scully talks the true meaning of teamwork

Welsh Language Music Day, the pop-up restaurant cooking up a storm with food waste and how going shopping could help fund a Guatamalan girl’s education

BUSINESS 69 Business Insider Our regular biz news round-up, including the latest Cardiff Life Awards update

PROPERT Y 78 Property Showcase Could this stunning period property in popular Pentrych be your dream home?

64 Snapped!

About MediaClash We’re a Bath-based publisher, creative agency and event organiser Magazines Our portfolio of regional magazines celebrate the best of local living: Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Exeter and Salisbury. We also publish foodie mag Crumbs. (crumbsmag.com, @CrumbsMag) and wedding title Vow (@VowMag).

Agency From the design and build of websites to digital marketing and creating company magazines, we can help.

Events We create, market, promote and operate a wide variety of events both for MediaClash and our clients Contact: info@mediaclash.co.uk

Sensational snaps from hot happenings

82 Cardiff Lives Award-winning jeweller Anne Morgan shares her secrets

On the cover The couple of the moment are all smiles on their first visit to the ‘Diff Photo © Wales Online

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C A R D I F F: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

Huw Stephens is urging people to get involved in Welsh Language Music Day

Looks good for food that would have been thrown away!

FOOD

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT

SING UP Whether you’re into indie, rock, punk, funk, folk, electronica, hip hop or anything else, there’s incredible music being made in the Welsh language for you to discover – that’s the message from Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens as he urges people and places in Cardiff and across South Wales to get involved and find their favourite new sound on the third Welsh Language Music Day on Friday, 9 February.

The day celebrates all forms of Welsh Language music with live and free events aimed at gig goers, parents and children, young people, students and businesses happening all across the country.

Womanby Street’s Castle Emporium will provide the backdrop for an all-day event featuring artists such as folk musician Gentle Good and grunge band Los Blancos, with headline acts soon to be announced.

The capital’s iconic music venue Clwb Ifor Bach will welcome Alys Williams and her talented band. Previously mentored by Tom Jones on BBC’s The Voice, Alys will be joined by Iwan Huws, following the success of releasing Mis Mêl.

Forte Project, the new music development scheme uncovering the next bright young things in music emerging from South Wales, are once again proudly involved in Welsh Language Music Day. Throughout the day, Forte Project alumni, Jack Ellis, a bilingual artist, who is no stranger to Welsh language circles with previous appearances at Battle of the Bands 10 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

at Maes B, will be performing a series of impromptu performances across the Valleys region. All through the morning, Jack will be calling upon office workers and daytime trade in Merthyr, presenting his material and discussing the story of the song to young pupils in Lewis Pengam Boys school. The day will culminate in an exclusive Forte Project showcase in Blackwood Miners Institute in the evening.

If you want to listen from the safety of your smartphone, or you’re a business that would like to play more Welsh language music to its staff or customersthere’s six playlists curated by DJ Gareth Potter including Acoustic, Electronica, Campfire Sing Song, Chill Out, Workout and Legends to play on Spotify, Apple Music and Deezer, easily available by scanning a Shazam code with a phone camera.

BBC Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens, ambassador for the day, said: “Whatever you’re into, Dydd Miwsig Cymru is a day to help you discover music you’ll love. If you’ve never heard or not heard much Welsh language music, it might not be what you think it is. And you don’t need to understand any Welsh to get into it. There’s incredible music of almost every genre, all being made in the Welsh language. Try something and you might just find your favourite new sound.”

The day is a part of the long-term vision to see a million people speaking and using Welsh by 2050.

For more: cymraeg.gov.wales/DyddMiwsigCymru

The Wasteless initiative is back, turning food that might otherwise have been destined for the bin, into delicious dinners.

Some of Cardiff’s best local food businesses will collaborate to each create a unique dish showcasing these often overlooked ingredients, all coming together to serve an exceptionally delicious meal.

The exciting Wasteless menu will be finalised just 24 hours before the event but dishes from previous Wasteless menus include pickles from around the globe, Skordalia bread and walnut dip, stuffed peppers with rice/veg or meat, Welsh pork, apple and root vegetable stew and baked yoghurt with preserved fruit. Cocktails served at the dinners also take a zero waste approach and have included cascara infused gin with orange peel.

The next Wasteless event is on 3 March at Cafe Sio, and the following on 31 March at Milk & Sugar’s Old Library branch. Tickets cost £27.54 per person and are available from eventbrite.co.uk.

For more: liaskitchen.com

MUSIC

HONOUR ROLL Huge congrats to Michael Bell, conductor of the Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra who’s been awarded an MBE for his services to the orchestra and Welsh music for the last 35 years. After completing a degree at Cardiff University, Michael formed CPO in 1982.

Their inaugural concert was staged at St David’s Cathedral on Saturday 19 June 1982, and the initial feeling was that it would be a one-off performance. Little did Michael know that CPO would still be here more than 300 concerts later!

For more: cardiffphilharmonic.com Congratulations Michael!

C A R D I F F: I T S L I F E A N D T I M E S

Maykher is making a difference

It’s a One Knit Wonder!

FASHION

FASHION FUNDS Welsh sustainable fashion company, Maykher is funding a new school placement for a young Guatemalan girl. The Cardiffbased fashion brand has reached its first ‘purchase with purpose’ milestone and has this month helped fund 14-year-old Irma’s full-time education for the next year. Irma is now enrolled in a school close to her home in a small village in rural Guatemala, not far from the city of Sololá .

Maykher is committed to getting more girls into education and donates 10% of its annual profits to the schooling of young women and girls in less fortunate countries.

Maykher’s co-founder, Heidi-Louise Griffiths said: “Being able to fund Irma’s education is a massive achievement for us and we couldn’t have done it without the support of the individuals choosing to purchase our products.

“We truly believe that educating girls can be a solution to ending poverty which is why we are so dedicated to investing into the education of young girls and women in poor countries. We are passionate about ethical and ‘slow’ fashion, working with people (makers) rather than machines, offering ethical employment opportunities and fair wages to harness the talent of women in the developing world. We hope that through our sustainable and ethical fashion choices, we’ll be able to fund the entrance of more young students into education whilst also championing women working in impoverished areas.”

For more: maykher.com

SHOPPING

A GOOD YARN Welsh homelessness charity, The Wallich, John Lewis Cardiff and Harlequin Printing & Packaging created a knitting kit called the One Knit Wonder and all of the 1,260 boxes commissioned had completely sold out by the weekend before Christmas.

Mike Walmsley, corporate fundraising manager, at The Wallich said: “We are so grateful to John Lewis Cardiff for helping us do something about homelessness and to Harlequin for donating the packaging, free of charge, and making our vision come to life.”

Cliff Vanstone, head of branch, at John Lewis Cardiff said: “The One Knit Wonder

has a serious message but we’re delighted to have worked with The Wallich on a product that is both fun and has helped raise money for a great charity.”

Delme Beddow, director of Harlequin Printing & Packaging in Pontyclun, said: “We really wanted to give something back to the community and the partnership with The Wallich and John Lewis came at a perfect time.

“It’s great that we’ve been able to use our extensive printing and packaging expertise to create something that will have a positive impact on the streets of Wales.”

For more: thewallich.com

GARDENING

PETAL POWER Good growing at the RHS Flower Show Cardiff

The fantastically floral event that is the Royal Horticultural Society’s Flower Show Cardiff will once again return to Bute Park from 13-15 April.

Packed with inspiration to encourage visitors to get back out into the garden after the winter months and get growing for spring, RHS Cardiff is full of floral displays bursting with take-home ideas.

From exciting Show Gardens to top-quality

plants and gardening merchandise for sale, the show will see an abundance of beautiful spring bulbs and inspiration for the season ahead.

There will also be plenty of activities for all the family to take part in including workshops, a children’s trail and the popular wheelbarrow competition.

Tickets cost £11 to £14. For further information and to purchase tickets please visit rhs.org.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 11

It’s

brilliant to welcome the royal couple to cardiff 12 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ROYAL ENGAGEMENT Crowds endured freezing temperatures to catch a glimpse of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as they visited Cardiff on their third official engagement as a couple

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALESONLINE

By E M M A DA NC E

S

ome things just can’t be avoided no matter who you are, and it seems that train delays are one of them. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrived at Cardiff Castle an hour late thanks to a delay on the GWR train on which they were travelling. Despite the cold though, no-one seemed to mind, not even those who had been waiting for almost seven hours for the pair to arrive. The gathered crowd cheered, waved Welsh flags and chanted the couple’s names as they got out of the car to begin their visit to Cardiff for an afternoon which promised to “showcase Welsh culture and heritage.” Harry and Meghan were all smiles as they chatted and shook hands with the waiting fans. Meghan was spotted writing on a piece of paper that w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 13

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALESONLINE

R O YA L VISIT

R O YA L VISIT

THE

CROWD CHANTED THE COUPLE’S PHOTOGRAPHY BY WALESONLINE

NAMES

PHOTOGRAHPY BY WALESONLINE

Some members of the crowd waited seven hours to see the couple

Harry and Megahn visit Star Hub in Tremorfa

was handed to her, raising a few eyebrows since royals are not permitted to sign autographs, but it later emerged that she had simply written a note to an admiring schoolgirl. After working the crowd the loved-up couple were given a tour of Cardiff Castle during which they were treated to performances of Welsh poetry and singing, and were able to sample Welsh specialities, including Welsh cakes – a first for Meghan.

Following their tour of the castle the pair went on to the Star Hub in Tremorfa where they were hosted by StreetGames, a charity that works throughout the UK to change lives and communities by providing equal opportunities through sport. The prince and his fiancée attended table tennis and street dance workshops led and attended by young people as part of StreetGames’ UsGirls and Doorstep Sport initiatives, and joined in a group hug with the enthusiastic youngsters. Paul Roberts, StreetGames’ head of programmes in Wales, said: “It’s brilliant to welcome the royal couple to Cardiff today. Here in Wales, one in three children grow up in poverty. The work that StreetGames does, with the help of our volunteers, ensures that those children aren’t denied the opportunity to grow up experiencing firsthand the benefits of sport.”

14 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Meghan shows off her Jenga skills

The youngsters were thrilled to meet the famous couple

DESIRE

def: DESIRE: a strong feeling of wanting to have something; to set one's heart on; to crave; to aspire to; to feel passion for..."

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3 Bessemer Close Workshops, Cardiff CF11 8DL telephone: 029 2023 3308 | www.chalkhouseinteriors.co.uk

A MAN’S WORLD

BLAINE SCULLY

TEAM SPIRIT “You will find men who want to be carried on the shoulders of others, who think that the world owes them a living. They don’t seem to see that we must all lift together and pull together” – Henry Ford

I

believe the greatest compliment an athlete can pay another is, “He is a great teammate.” To have this said means the athlete has earned the respect of his team. In competitive team sports, this is no easy thing.

The team always sees more than the coaches. They interact with one another on a highly personal and intimate level. A team witnesses day in and day out who an athlete is and what he does. As my coaches at Cal used to say, you are either a “good locker room guy or bad locker room guy.”

As professional competitive athletes, we are usually in sport for one reason – to win. But along the way we develop bonds and relationships that transcend our sport, giving deeper meaning to the years we spend competing. After all, teams are made up of people and these relationships not only become important to the overall make up of a team, but to each individual. Some even become lifelong friends.

There is a unique bond that develops among those on highly competitive teams.

Working so closely with someone each day towards a mutual goal, attaches people and emotions. In a way, they are the only ones who understand, who can comprehend what it is like. On the best teams, members become mutually invested in something bigger than themselves, the team and their

AS PROFESSIONAL COMPETITIVE ATHLETES, WE ARE USUALLY IN SPORT FOR ONE REASON – TO WIN teammates becoming a part of who they are. They suffer, sweat and go to battle in high pressure situations, which requires significant trust.

This does not mean everyone gets along or hangs out outside of training. What it

means is a good team is made up of good teammates. They are the ones you can count on, the ones you can trust to carry out individual assignments, to leave it all on the line – the ones you respect as only another teammate can.

As I have matured (hopefully) and grown into leadership roles, I’ve learned to put myself in the context of the team, not only analysing myself as an athlete but also as a teammate. “Did I get better? Did I help someone else get better? Did the team get better?” This has become a crucial process to gaining a deeper understanding of the teams I am part of.

Along with glories and the failures, you remember teammates, especially the good ones. I’ve been fortunate to have great teammates in my career. And I thank those who have impacted me in a meaningful way and hopefully, I do the same to others.

Blaine Scully plays professional rugby for Cardiff Blues – follow him on Twitter: @BlaineScully1.

For more: cardiffblues.com

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SUCCESS AFTER SUCCESS…. BUT THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME From London to Brussels and on to Barcelona; 2017 saw live-events powerhouse Genero Group establishing their growing presence in many major cities across Europe.

W

ith content as diverse as payroll in Paris and defence in Docklands – it’s is all in a day’s work for a team who place delivery for clients at the heart of all they do.

Yet, whilst the Cardiff based experientialmedia company have enjoyed significant European growth, they are keen to point out they haven’t forgotten their Welsh roots – celebrating that 2017 was such a momentous year for its home city. From the Six Nations to the incredible UEFA Champions League final, Cardiff was put on the world stage, with more than 300,000 people visiting the city on 3 June alone.

Of all the many projects worked on during the year, Genero’s team all agree to a career highlight being the UEFA Champion’s League dinner on behalf of client, Unicredit. Held against the mesmerising backdrop of a floodlit Caerphilly Castle, the team worked on the event from conception to completion, and the final product was truly a feast for the senses.

“It’s been another exciting period for us,” says Pete Leckie, Managing Director of Genero Group. “Like every evolving business, this year we’ve faced challenge and change – and the team have responded to both with the aptitude and determination that defines them as the best in the business.”

After such a successful year, it goes without saying that Genero will be riding into 2018 on a high and gearing up for an even busier year.

“Our hospitality events are to become even more ambitious,” says Tom Shanklin, Director of Genero Experiences, the company’s division behind some of Cardiff’s most celebrated sporting events; from VIP dinners to exclusive Q&As. With the upcoming Six Nations 2018, rugby is set to return to the Cardiff spotlight – which means Genero’s Locker Room will also be returning. Coinciding with the Welsh fixtures, the Locker Room is a series of exclusive hospitality events hosted at the Marriott Hotel that celebrates the best of match day, in a fun and informal atmosphere. Hosted by former international and Genero director Tom Shanklin, previous special guests have included rugby legends along the likes of Phil Bennett, Mike Tindall and John Bentley, to name a few. “A seat in the Locker Room is the second-hottest ticket in town on international day,” explains Tom - and the Genero team is positive that the 2018 series will be bigger and better than ever.

For ticket information and more details on Locker Room events for the upcoming home games, contact events@generoexperiences.co.uk and for the best advice on your next event contact info@genero-group.

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 19

T H E A L B A N Y G A L L E RY MIKE CARTER DAI DAVID KARL DAVIES PAUL WESTON 15th February - 10th March View the exhibition on our website

www.albanygallery.co.uk

74b Albany Road, Cardiff, CF24 3RS | T: 029 2048 7158 | E: info@albanygallery.com Gallery open: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 11am-4pm

Music/theatre/film/more

NOTHING BUT A NUMBER A fearless and affecting dissection of the relationship between father and son, A Number strikes at the heart of what it is to love unconditionally – and the tragic failure to connect. The play, by visionary playwright Caryl Churchill, is opening the spring 2018 season at The Other Room, and runs from 13 February to 3 March.

For more: otherroomtheatre.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 21

2 February – 2 March

Comedian Richard Herring is coming to St David’s Hall; Paul Weller will be doing his thing at the Motorpoint Arena; Louder Is Not Always Clearer at Chapter

Plays/Shows/ Performance U N TI L 1 7 F E B RUARY

DUBLIN CAROL A raw, unflinching but quietly beautiful and moving account of a life wasted, as John, an alcoholic undertaker, is confronted by the ghosts of his past. Can he salvage something from the life he wrecked?

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk U N TI L 2 4 F E B RUARY

WELSH NATIONAL OPERA WNO return with Verdi’s epic La Forza del Destino (until 17 Feb); Puccini’s thrilling Tosca (9-24 Feb); and Mozart’s Don Giovanni (22-24 Feb), equal parts comedy, tragedy and high drama.

Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

5 - 1 0 FE BRUA R Y

FLASHDANCE: THE MUSICAL Based on 1983’s hit movie, the inspiring story of Alex – welder by day and ‘flashdancer’ by night – who dreams of becoming a professional dancer.

New Theatre; newtheatrecardiff.co.uk 6 - 1 0 FE BRUA R Y

LOUDER IS NOT ALWAYS CLEARER Honest portrayal of the vulnerability of a deaf man, a humorous and moving story of said man’s attempt to cope, fit in and be accepted. Produced, devised and directed by renowned performance activists, Mr and Mrs Clark.

Chapter; chapter.org 6 - 1 3 FE BRUA R Y

THE NIGHT WATCH The Richard Burton Company present Sarah Waters’ bestselling

22 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

World War Two novel, a story of illicit love and everyday heroism.

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk 8 F EBR UAR Y

TERRA FIRMA Trio of performances by National Dance Company Wales, including enchanting fairytale, Folk; Marcos Morau’s Russian folk-influenced Tundra; and Mario Bermudez Gil’s infectious dance piece, Atalaÿ.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk 13 F EBR UAR Y-12 MAY

LOVESICK New triptych of plays (by writers Caryl Churchill, Matthew Trevannion and Lucy Prebble) from Cardiff’s visionary pub theatre company The Other Room, looking at what love truly means in the modern age.

The Other Room at Porter’s; otherroomtheatre.com

16-17 F E B RUARY

WOMAN OF FLOWERS Blodeuwedd isn’t like other women. Conjured from wild flowers by the wizard Gwydion to be the perfect wife for the warrior prince, Llew, when the dark desires woven into her nature are awakened, the consequences are bloody for all around her.

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk 22-23 F E B RUARY

GRAV Award-winning production based on the life of the former Welsh rugby player.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

Comedy 21 F EBR UARY

MARK THOMAS Another thought-provoking

W H AT ’ S O N

ARTS

masterpiece, as Thomas and team set out to run a comedy club in the Palestinian city of Jenin, dodging political, cultural and actual bullets in the process.

Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk 2 4 F E B RUARY

RICHARD HERRING: OH FRIG, I’M 50!

Following up his Oh Fuck, I’m 40!, the second instalment in Herring’s once-a-decade examination of ageing.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 2 7 F E B RUARY

RUSSELL BRAND The love-him-or-hate-him funnyman talks about parental responsibility – what if his daughter ends up dating someone like him?

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 1 M ARC H

THURSDAY NIGHT PIEFACE COMEDY St David’s Day special, with three of Wales’ finest comics: Lloyd Langford, Mike Bubbins and Robin Morgan.

Glee Club; glee.co.uk

Film 1 5 F E B RUARY

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL Extraordinary collection of short films, following the expeditions of some of today’s most incredible adventurers.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Music 6 F E B RUARY

CHRIS WOOD Uncompromising, self-taught folk musician, former winner of BBC Radio 2’s Folk Singer of the Year.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 7 F E B RUARY

WILL VARLEY The politically charged, contemporary folk troubadour heads out on his biggest UK tour to date.

The Globe; globecardiffmusic.com

Mark Thomas and team entertain at the Sherman Theatre

8 FE BRUA RY

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES Conductor Thomas Søndergård oversees work by Sibelius – including his anthemic fifth symphony – and Nielsen.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 9 FE BRUA RY

THE DAMNED Punk legends – their groundbreaking 1976 cut, New Rose, was recently voted best punk song ever.

Cardiff University Great Hall; cardiffstudents.com 9 FE BRUA RY

O DUO Award winning percussionists, “brimming with style and panache” (Daily Telegraph).

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama; rwcmd.ac.uk 1 1 FE BRUA RY

INDIA ELECTRIC CO. Atmospheric, folky vibes with an Eastern European flavour.

Acapela; acapela.co.uk 1 1 FE BRUA RY

BRITISH SEA POWER Brighton’s enduring indie-rockers and BBC 6 Music faves – check out last year’s excellent Let The Dancers Inherit The Party album.

The Globe; globecardiffmusic.com

16 F EBR UAR Y

ERASURE Andy Bell and Vince Clarke delve into their extensive armoury of synth-pop gems.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk 21 F EBR UAR Y

PAUL WELLER Return of the Modfather, no less – always moving forward, and refreshingly averse to nostalgia.

Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk 1 MAR C H

BBC NATIONAL ORCHESTRA OF WALES The Orchestra and Chorus of Wales celebrate St David’s Day, along with conductor Grant Llewellyn, harpist Catrin Finch and tenor Gwyn Hughes Jones.

St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

Art

inventive oil paintings, watercolours and digital drawings by the British artist.

BayArt; bayart.org.uk UNTIL 2 4 F EB RUARY

OLIVER GAIGER & MEIRION GINSBERG Contemporary artists showcase.

Martin Tinney Gallery; artwales.com UNTIL 4 M ARCH

ON WATER UNDER SNOW Dreamlike landscapes by Seoulborn Minyoung Choi, featuring images of objects or scenes culled from her imagination.

Chapter; chapter.org UNTIL 1 1 M ARCH

SWAPS Work by leading 20th and 21st century photographers Henri Cartier-Bresson, Eve Arnold, Bill Brandt and others, from the collection of documentary photographer, David Hurn.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk

UNTIL 10 F EBR UAR Y

EXHIBITION OF POSTERS Featuring posters by Braque, Chagall, Cocteau, Dali, Warhol and many others, all available to buy.

Albany Gallery; albanygallery.com UNTIL 16 F EBR UAR Y

JOHN SELWAY Typically flamboyant and

UNTIL 2 DECEM B ER

WHO DECIDES? Contemporary art exhibition curated by service users from homelessness charity, The Wallich, featuring the work of Anthony Caro, Olga Chernysheva, Richard Deacon, and more.

National Museum Cardiff; museumwales.ac.uk w

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 23

ARTS

W H AT ’ S O N

David Hockney’s The Boy Hidden In The Egg, at the Albany Gallery

1 5 F E B RUARY-1 0 MA RCH

SATU RDAY 1 7 F EBR UAR Y

Sport

SU N DAY 2 5 FEBR UAR Y

UNRULY REFUGE 50 years of paintings and drawings

by Cardiff artist, D.J.M. Saunders.

Cardiff MADE; Twitter: @CardiffMADE

W E D N E S DAY 7 F E BRUA RY

CARDIFF DEVILS v SHEFFIELD STEELERS League, face-off 7.30pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

CARDIFF CITY v MIDDLESBOROUGH Sky Bet Championship, KO 3pm.

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk CARDIFF CITY v BRISTOL CITY Sky Bet Championship, KO midday.

Cardiff City Stadium; cardiffcityfc.co.uk

SU N DAY 2 5 FEBR UAR Y S AT URDAY 1 0 F EBRUA RY

CARDIFF BLUES v TOYOTA CHEETAHS Guinness Pro 14, KO 7.35pm.

BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park; cardiffblues.com

CARDIFF DEVILS v BELFAST GIANTS League, face-off 6pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com FRI DAY 2 MAR C H

S UN DAY 1 1 F E B RUA RY

CARDIFF DEVILS v NOTTINGHAM PANTHERS League, face-off 6pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

CARDIFF BLUES v BENETTON RUGBY Guinness Pro 14, KO 7.35pm BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park; cardiffblues.com

S AT URDAY 1 7 F EBRUA RY

CARDIFF BLUES v MUNSTER RUGBY Guinness Pro 14, KO 5.30pm.

BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park; cardiffblues.com

FRI DAY 2 MAR C H

CARDIFF DEVILS v MANCHESTER STORM League, face-off 7.30pm.

Ice Arena Wales; cardiffdevils.com

24 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

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To keep readers fully updated about what’s going on in Cardiff, we email out a free newsletter every Friday, packed with news, our essential ‘see and do’ picks of the week, tips and special offers.

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ARTS of Gold

Powerful drama, contemporary ballet, music icons and beyond – our eight essential live arts picks and performances for the season ahead

O

ne of the great pleasures of a new year is all the exciting arts stuff to look forward to, and 2018 promises to be another good one for Cardiff’s culture vultures, with some notable and captivating on-stage treats to come. So, Google calendars and credit cards at the ready – here are our eight must-see, book ‘em now events for the months ahead...

STORM.2: THINGS COME APART

The second part of National Theatre Wales’ The Storm Cycle – a three-year collaboration with theatremakers Mike Pearson and Mike Brookes, who have created some of NTW’s most critically-acclaimed work to date – is a multi-platform exploration of the vicious Cardiff riots of June 1919. Caused by, amongst other things, a complex knot of post-war frustrations following demobilisation, the spark that finally ignited the worst of the violence was racial tension. This new text, to be narrated live by a cast of three professional actors, creates a running account using only the reports in local newspapers, exposing the attitudes and prejudices of that era. At a time of global political and social instability, the hard-hitting production is a stark reminder of the value of compassion and hard-won civil rights – and the risks we take when we neglect them.

21-24 March, The Tabernacle Church; nationaltheatrewales.org 28 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

By V E L I M I R I L IC TREMOR

The world premiere of Brad Birch’s new play, about how we choose to see things and live our lives in a world riven with tension, anxiety and division, asks a very direct question – once our lives are touched by tragedy, can we ever truly move on? It focuses on Sophie and Tom, a couple whose relationship falls apart in the aftermath of a catastrophe; four years later, as they come face-to-face once again, the aftershocks of that fateful day can still be felt. Directed by Sherman Theatre’s visionary artistic director Rachel O’Riordan, it promises yet another thrilling and intense evening of theatre.

12 April-5 May, Sherman Theatre; shermantheatre.co.uk

ARTS PREVIEW

NORTHERN BALLET: JANE EYRE

Leeds’ visionary Northern Ballet, a powerhouse of inventive dance, bring one of literature’s most iconic heroines to life in this full-length performance. Based on the classic novel by Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre is a journey of courage, romance and tragedy. Orphaned at a young age and cruelly treated by her aunt, Jane is a plain but intelligent child who grows up knowing little kindness. Sent away to a charitable school, she later accepts a position as a governess at Thornfield Hall, owned by the mysterious and brooding Mr Rochester.

In spite of their social differences, an unlikely bond forms between the pair but as their romance develops, it becomes clear that Mr Rochester has a hidden past that threatens to ruin them both. A dramatic tale of love, jealousy and dark secrets, featuring music played live by the Northern Ballet Sinfonia, it’s the story of one woman’s indomitable spirit overcoming all boundaries.

A POWERHOUSE OF INVENTIVE DANCE, BRING ONE OF LITERATURE’S MOST ICONIC HEROINES TO LIFE

24-28 April, New Theatre; newtheatrecardiff.co.uk

FLEABAG

“Today I am going to be a new person. No more slutty pizzas. No more porny wanks. Lots more lovely threesomes. Go!” Fleabag may seem over-sexed, emotionally unfiltered and self-obsessed, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

With family relationships and friendships under strain and a guinea pig-themed café struggling to keep afloat, she suddenly finds herself with nothing to lose.

Based on the BAFTA Award-winning cult telly series written by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, it finds our endearing anti-heroine stumbling through a maze of social anxiety, disastrous job interviews and meaningless sex, serving up an uproariously funny and true account of a female living her sort of life. If you’ve already seen the outrageously brilliant Waller-Bridge do her stuff on the small screen, you’ll know not to miss this rip-roaring stage adaptation – if only to see how Maddie Rice measures up in the lead role.

26 April-5 May, Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

w www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 29

TEARS FOR FEARS

The influential 80s duo, no less, as Roland Orzabal (big voice, even bigger hair, prone to dad dancing) and sidekick Curt Smith prepare for their first UK tour since 2005.

News of their return has been greeted with unbridled enthusiasm by critics and adoring public alike – fans include Lorde, Kanye West and David Guetta – and rightly so. One of the pioneering new wave brigade of the early 80s, their considerable back catalogue includes an armoury of polished power-pop gems such as Mad World (the original video has almost 14 million views on YouTube, natch), Shout, Everybody Wants To Rule The World, Sowing The Seeds Of Love, Woman In Chains, and more.

Support comes from former Yazoo singer, Alison Moyet, no stranger to bombastic 80s anthems herself.

4 May, Motorpoint Arena; motorpointarenacardiff.co.uk

MY FAMILY: NOT THE SITCOM

Lauded by everyone from national press to fellow performers Russell Brand, Ricky Gervais, David Mitchell, Sue Perkins and a host of other glitterati, David Baddiel’s hugely funny, Olivier-nominated one-man show looks at memory, ageing, dysfunctional relatives, moral policing on social media, golf and gay cats – essentially, it’s a massively disrespectful, no-holds-barred celebration of the lives of his late sex-mad mother, Sarah, and dementia-ridden father, Colin, delivered with Baddiel’s impeccable comic timing.

27 April, St David’s Hall; stdavidshallcardiff.co.uk

The Oliviernominated one-man show looks at memory, ageing, dysfunctional relatives, moral policing on social media, golf and gay cats 30 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

ARTS PREVIEW ART

Now something of a global phenomenon, Yasmina Reza’s comedy play has been packing in audiences for more than 20 years. It centres around three long-term friends, Serge, Marc and Yvan (played by Nigel Havers, Denis Lawson and Stephen Tompkinson, respectively); when Serge, indulging his penchant for modern art, buys a large, very expensive, all-white modernist painting, Marc and Yvan are horrified and baffled, and the trio’s relationship suffers considerable strain as a result of their differing opinions about what truly constitutes ‘art’. But their violent reactions to the provocative canvas only serve to mirror more dangerous antagonisms towards each other in Reza’s masterpiece, a dazzling study of friendship, prejudice and tolerance.

28 May-2 June, Wales Millennium Centre; wmc.org.uk

FESTIVAL OF VOICE

Created and curated by Wales Millennium Centre, the biennial international music/arts festival returns to Cardiff, celebrating ‘the voice’ and encouraging a spirit of discovery. Following the brilliant inaugural line-up from 2016 (Rufus Wainwright, John Cale, John Grant et al) was always going to be a tall order, but the announcement of the first wave of acts promises another stellar bill, with live music from Patti Smith (including an intimate poetry reading at St John’s Church in Canton), Gruff Rhys, Passenger, Billy Bragg and Nadine Shah, plus a collaborative public art experience from Artichoke at WMC. The full 11-day programme launches in March, with more contemporary music, theatre, visual arts and talks still to be announced. Watch this space...

7-17 June, various Cardiff venues; festivalofvoice.wales www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 31

ARTS

FILM (Clockwise from left) Boogie Nights, Phantom Thread and Magnolia

DIRECT LINE Chapter celebrates renowned filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson with a dedicated season of his work

I

By M EGA N PR IC E

t’s difficult to overstate the talent and influence of filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson – so we’re letting his work speak for itself with a mini-season of his films this February.

Anderson’s latest film Phantom Thread (cert 15) screens 16 February to 1 March.

In 1950s London, dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day Lewis) has his carefully planned life disrupted by a strong-willed woman (Vicky Krieps) who becomes his muse.

The film has earned Daniel Day Lewis Best Actor nominations from the Golden Globes and British Academy Film Awards and is reportedly his last film role – so certainly one to catch on the big screen.

On 4 and 6 February, we have the multiple award-winning There Will Be Blood (cert 15), a story of family, religion, hatred, oil and madness, focusing on a turn-of-the-century prospector in the early days of the business. Starring Daniel Day Lewis and Paul Dano, the film was described by the American Film Institute’s jury for Movies of the Year 2007 as “bravura film-making by one of American film’s modern masters. Paul Thomas Anderson’s epic poem of savagery, optimism and obsession is a true meditation on America.”

Next up is the groundbreaking Boogie Nights (cert 32 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

18) (11 and 13 February), a snapshot of the euphoric adventures of the 1970s American pornography industry and the comedown in the 1980s. It has been posited that it was Boogie Nights that established Mark Walhberg as a film actor – and no one can argue with that killer soundtrack.

Screening on 18 and 20 February is Magnolia (cert 18). An epic mosaic of interrelated characters in search of love, forgiveness and meaning in Los Angeles, the film stars Tom Cruise, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Julianne Moore.

Lastly we have Inherent Vice (cert 15) (25 and 27 February), which follows LA private investigator Larry ‘Doc’ Sportello (Joaquin Phoenix) as he dredges the psychedelic drug-hazed world of 1970s California to investigate the disappearance of a former girlfriend. In 2016, it was voted the 75th best film since 2000 in an international critics’ poll, and received two Oscar nominations and a Best Actor Golden Globe Award nomination for Joaquin Phoenix.

So whether you can catch the whole season, revisit an old favourite, or see how Phantom Thread measures up, we hope to see you at Chapter in February, taking in the work of one of the most admired filmmakers alive today.

For more: chapter.org, pridecymru.co.uk

F ILM OF THE MONTH

THE POST (CERT 12A) (2-15 February) The thrilling true story of the publication of the historic Pentagon Papers, which exposed government secrets and changed the world, starring Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep.

Lle dwt, profiad bwyta anhygoel -----An intimate space, a culinary experience

Catalan restaurant La Cuina, 11 Kings Road, Cardiff, CF11 9BZ 029 20190265 – info@lacuina.co.uk

WWW.LACUINA.CO.UK

STREET LIFE

COMMUNITY MATTERS

We just can’t help falling for Pontcanna’s charms over and over again….

By E M M A DA NC E

W

ith its Victorian charm, treelined streets, hip indie shops and vibrant café culture it’s no wonder that Pontcanna is regularly namechecked as one of the UK’s coolest places. So we’ve been catching up with some of our fave indies to find out just what they think makes Pontcanna quite so special….

BARNEY & BEAU

In a nutshell, tell us what you do…..

Barney & Beau is a modern kids store selling design led products for kids and the home.

What sets you apart?

It’s a combination of style and service. All the products we stock are handpicked for their chic, minimalist, modern feel with a huge Scandinavian flavour, and our service is professional, friendly and most of all personal.

What’s new with you?

The business has recently launched its full ecommerce website with lots of awesome features including a free ‘click and collect’ option for locals and lots of exciting new brands and additional features being added every day.

Give us a fun fact about you...

Barney & Beau is named after two very pesky princes aka my toddlers Barnaby and Beaumont.

Best thing about Pontcanna?

There are so many things to love about Pontcanna but for me the absolute best has to be the amount of super-stylish independent businesses that give this area its contemporary and diverse edge.

6 Pontcanna Mews, Kings Road, Pontcanna; barneyandbeau.com

36 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Brød is bursting with delicious Danish baked goods

BRAVA

In a nutshell, tell us what you do and what’s your ethos…

We’re a café by day and a bistro by night, with a warm, friendly team serving simple, homemade food served in a chilled out environment.

What sets you apart?

As we cook all our food in-house we can be flexible to our customers requirements. Also, our team are very loyal – their average time at Brava is eight years!

What’s new and exciting with you?

Brava celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, we’ve just invested in a cracking refurb and hope to be serving brunch at Brava in another 20 years!

Fun fact?

We get through over 40,000 eggs a year!!

Best thing about Pontcanna?

Taking a walk around the variety of independent businesses whilst stopping along the way for a chat with our friends and customers.

71 Pontcanna Street, Pontcanna; bravacardiff.co.uk

Brød

Describe who and what you are...

We’re an independent Danish bakery and coffee shop located on the hotly disputed border between Canton and Pontcanna.

There’s a real sense of community here

What’s your ethos?

That the simple things in life are often those we value most. We create a little taste of Denmark, and in doing so, we hope that we provide the space, time and tastes for our customers to savour those simple things in life - time with friends and family and a little breather in the marathon of our busy lives.

What sets you apart?

For us, the provision of a distinctive and authentic slice of Danish food culture, right in the heart of one of Cardiff’s most popular neighbourhoods is what we aim to do. Great baking, lovely coffee, unique products, friendly service and a cosy, chic environment are the heart and soul of the Brød experience.

What’s new with you?

This year is about making the business more sustainable. Small changes, but ones we hope will set us on a better path; we’ve just switched to a renewable energy supplier, we’ve ditched the plastic straws in favour of paper, and we’re about to sign up with Too Good To Go (a Danish start-up no less!) to help reduce our food waste. We’re also now allowing customers to bring in their own cups for take-away drinks. Still work to do – not least with disposable cups, but we’re heading in the right direction!

We’ve also got a few new products to add to the mix – home-made muesli and fresh orange juice – perfect for a healthier start to the day.

Fun fact?

Last year, the bakery was taken over for a day’s filming for forthcoming BBC drama, Requiem. We’re looking forward to seeing our cameo appearance!

Best thing about Pontcanna?

No question – it’s the people. There’s a real sense of community here, and we feel like we’ve been welcomed from day one. We feel privileged to be part of it.

126 Wyndham Crescent, Cardiff; thedanishbakery.co.uk

CFELEVEN Photo by aga hosking

Tell us what you do….

We are a bar and guest house in the middle of Cathedral Road.

Pontcanna has a thriving café culture

What sets you apart?

We are not your normal bar since we only open in the evenings with 2-for-1 cocktails between 6pm and 8pm. We offer very comfortable surroundings with open fires and nice areas for small parties to enjoy privacy. We’ve also got a great covered garden area with heaters so you can go outside in all weathers!  www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 37

STREET LIFE Best thing about Pontcanna?

We love being in Pontcanna because it has such great places to eat and is right on the edge of the city centre. Cathedral Road is probably the best street in Cardiff and we reckon at least in the top 10 streets in the UK. 149-151 Cathedral Road, Cardiff; cfeleven.com

THE CONWAY

How would you describe your ethos?

We aim to provide the local community with a good, reliable pub, offering a mixture of pub classics and constantly changing specials. Add to that an extensive wine list and a good selection of beers served by welcoming, friendly and professional staff…..that’s what The Conway is all about.

What sets you apart?

Everything is cooked freshly on site…apart from the bread, because our suppliers make it better than we do!

What’s new?

We’re reacting to a noticeable upturn in the number of our customers requesting vegan options, which we believe is only going to increase.

We are therefore looking at greater vegan choices on the menu and a dedicated vegan night coming up soon. Depending on the event’s popularity, this could become a rolling event.

Fun fact?

Not such a fun fact, but a serious fact… you won’t find any more plastic straws at The Conway or any other Knife and Fork venues. You’ll only be offered a paper straw with us now.

Best thing about Pontcanna?

The predominance and success of really great independent retail and eating venues.

58 Conway Road, Cardiff; knifeandforkfood.co.uk

The Conway

LA CUINA

Briefly tell us what you do...

La Cuina is a Catalan restaurant, the only one in Wales. We do real food with the best quality ingredients on the market offering a taste of Catalunya and a cultural and sensory experience.

What’s your ethos?

We support small producers, like ourselves, who care about and love their land, their work, their produce.

What sets you apart?

At La Cuina you will taste food you haven’t tried anywhere else, and wines you can’t get in any other corner of the UK. We cater for the curious palate. Our staff are all from Catalunya and know about the food, the wines and the region, and will always be eager to explain what is cooking, literally and metaphorically.

Fun fact?

Our staff come from Catalunya, to spend some time with us and to learn English. Most of them are graduates who want to improve their language so when they arrive, their English is not “perfect” and sometimes they misunderstand words and expressions from the customers. It’s often very funny, but we put it right straightaway. It gives an extra authentic feel to the place and a bit of humour is always a good thing.

Best thing about Pontcanna?

The people of course!

11 Kings Road, Cardiff; lacuina.co.uk

GOJI

Tell us a bit about Goji.....

Our aim is simple: to provide every client with a first class, organic, experience from start to finish. From their first interaction with us – whether by phone, email, social media or the website – through to every aspect of their visit including the head massages and refreshments, we strive to ensure that our clients have an enriching experience which is personal, yet professional.

Catalan cuisine at La Cuina

38 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

What sets you apart?

We put our clients at the centre of every decision we make so it’s a combination of caring customer service along with a team of experienced stylists, therapists and barbers providing the overall ‘Goji’ experience.

Our loyalty scheme is also very popular as well as the fact that we can meet the needs of every member of the family under one roof.

STREET LIFE What’s new and exciting with you?

Our big development for the start of the year has been the addition of online booking. This means that clients can book a variety of services whenever they want and have their appointment confirmed immediately. We have also recently introduced a range of pampering packages which combines a blow dry or hair up with a choice of beauty treatments – perfect for bridal parties or proms. We are also an authorised Great Lengths hair extensions salon and we have just had another of our stylists trained in order to cope with demand.

Fun fact?

The name Goji was chosen because of its association with the goji berry but the name also incorporates the initials of our creative director, Greg James.

We, along with Clifton Coffee Roasters, have invested time and money establishing a relationship with the head farmer, Don Saul Reina, so that he sees a real return for his coffee enabling him to improve the quality every year – in 2017 Finca El Izoté was placed 5th in the cup of excellence. We like to call it ‘fairer trade’.

What’s new and exciting with you?

We now make our cakes in-house. Jemma, our baker extraordinaire, works around the clock for us to put out some of the best cakes in South Wales.

BEST THING ABOUT PONCANNA? THE PEOPLE, OF COURSE!

Best thing about Pontcanna?

Where to start? It’s got to be the amount and diversity of quality independent businesses in the area covering pretty much everything from restaurants to fashion to interiors to delis and – of course – hair and beauty!

Fun fact?

Our Finca El Izoté has been used to make a cup of coffee at 8,200ft on the Schilthorn Mountain in Switzerland.

Best thing about Pontcanna?

Pontcanna is the heart of food and drink in Wales.

I would say nine out of ten places are pushing the boundaries to bring the best Wales has on offer. Plus, it’s where KIN+ILK is based!

Cathedral House, 31 Cathedral Road, Pontcanna; kinandilk.com

175 Kings Road, Cardiff; gojihair.com

KIN+ILK

Tell us what you do and what’s your ethos…

KIN meaning family and ILK, your kind represent the ethos and feel we aim to create on a daily basis. The aim was and is to create design led spaces that have fantastic coffee, fresh locally sourced food and a focus on community.

What sets you apart?

The community takes centre stage at KIN+ILK, we have hosted meetings for local groups such as the Canna Collective, sponsored local artists providing them with the opportunity to hold their first exhibitions, and have just started working with Hockey Wales to get more people from our community attending their matches.

Finca El Izoté, is our direct trade coffee from El Salvador.

KITI

In a nutshell, tell us what you do….

We’re an independent fashion boutique offering top European labels and premium denim brands such as AG jeans and Mother Denim.

What’s your ethos?

To supply new, exciting, quality brands that are a little bit different.

Fun fact The shop is named after owner Gwenno Davies’ nain, a farmer’s wife who Gwenno says didn’t really have a clue about fashion but had a wicked sense of humour!

Best thing about Pontcanna?

There is undoubtedly an air of excitement around Pontcanna at the moment with new independent businesses popping up. w

Coffee and cake at KIN+ILK

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 39

STREET LIFE The arrival of Milkwood has been very welcome and much-needed. The great selection of coffee houses and eateries make this area vibrant and popular, bringing in younger families and professionals. It has become a real hub with exciting new entrepreneurs are gravitating to the area.

Pontcanna Mews, 200 Kings Rd, Pontcanna; kiticymru.com

LUFKIN

In a nutshell, tell us what you do and what’s your ethos?

It’s increasingly difficult to find/make time to just be in the moment, and we’re all about celebrating people’s desire to stop and take some time for themselves. Coffee is a good excuse, and a good way of engaging the senses to help us feel more present and mindful of the space we are in. So much of life can be rushed at times, and okay, we can make a great takeaway coffee to be enjoyed on the move, but we’re also here for anyone who is looking to take an extended moment, read a book or stare out of the window – I think we all need that at times.

What sets you apart?

All of the roasting is done on-site, and then packaged in 250g bags for you to enjoy at home and on your travels. We also prepare our own roasted coffee for you to enjoy in shop as espresso or filter. Our coffees are all single origin, which means they come from one farm or co-operative, so we can tell you what altitude it has been grown at, or what kind of soil it’s been grown in. We change our coffees every couple of months so that we, and those who visit us, can explore different varieties of coffee from different regions – it’s fun!

What’s new with you?

Our food menu is beginning to compete with our coffee menu. We use sourdough bread from Riverside Sourdough in Cathays, which is delivered fresh a couple times a week. We make killer toasts with ingredients we love until 2pm each day, sourced from different producers in Pontcanna, and we have just started experimenting with soup. We have fun trying different flavours and pairing ingredients.

Fun fact?

We appreciate people have their favourite mugs, so bring your own and get a discount on coffee, staying in or take away.

spend debating even the smallest point of detail. We believe this level of care and attention shines through in the properties we build.

What’s new and exciting with you?

We’re undertaking our largest project to date in a very exciting part of Cardiff city centre. It’s called Brickworks and it’s 100 apartments in the area that’s being dubbed South Central, immediately behind the station.

There’s so much happening around there over the next five years, it’s really exciting to be at the forefront of this.

THERE’S A VIBRANT, CREATIVE BUZZ IN THE AIR

Best thing about Pontcanna?

For us, what we love about Pontcanna is the growing sense of community. It’s possible to shop for what you need in this ‘village’ without needing to go to the big supermarkets…. which is cool. There’s a real neighbourly feeling in Pontcanna, and a vibrant and creative buzz in the air and among the people you meet, young and old.

183A Kings Road, Cardiff; lufkincoffee.com

PORTABELLA

In a few words, tell us what you do...

We’re a boutique property company specialising in residential development.

What’s your ethos?

We’re a team of creative people who love what we do. Our ethos is to deliver high quality, design-led homes that people want to live in.

What sets you apart?

With residential property there’s an awful lot of the same old boring stuff being built. We start every project with a blank piece of paper and so everything we do is bespoke. You wouldn’t believe the amount of time we 40 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Take some time out at Lufkin

Fun fact?

Our office apparently doesn’t look like an office! We’ve had visitors asking if we’re a bar, a gallery, an art studio or a furniture shop. Quite a few people have wanted to buy the chair in the window – it’s not for sale.

Best thing about Pontcanna?

What’s not to love: Great people, great parkland, great shops, great food, great coffee and all within walking distance of the city centre. If Carlsberg made suburbs…

1 Pontcanna Street, Cardiff, CF11 9HQ; portabella.co.uk

STONEBAKED@BRAVA

Tell us what you do and what’s your ethos?

We take great dough, hand stretch it, top it with Welsh-sourced produce and bake on hot stone for a light delicious artisan pizza.

What sets you apart?

We have a charity pizza designed by Stephen Terry (of The Hardwick) with a £1 from each sale going to Ty Hafan.

What’s new and exciting with your business?

At the moment, everything is, as it’s only a few months old.

Fun fact?

Pizza has been around since 1880...and it’s more popular than ever!

Best thing about Pontcanna?

Its people, its parks and now its pizza!

71 Pontcanna Street, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HS; bravacardiff.co.uk

Become the bride...

Pizza, Peroni Pipes, Prosecco & Plonk!

@ BRAVA ---------------- artisan pizza ---------------what we do

Gorgeous hand stretched pizza with a range of delicious toppings including one by Steven Terry, of ‘The Hardwick’, with £1to Ty Hafan for each of these sold.

There’s a selection of small dishes for starters or sides and some great desserts including a nutella pizza!

We also have gluten free bases available along with GF lager and vegan cheese.

how we do things

We took ourselves off to ‘The School of Artisan Food’, to learn how to make great stone baked pizza properly.

The Italian stone bottomed oven runs at up to 500c to lock in the all the delicious flavours of your toppings and ensure a crisp base.

…that steals every heart with fairy tale wedding hair. Possess the allure of longer, more voluminous locks and take everyone’s breath away. When the day to walk down the aisle finally arrives, we will help make your entrance unforgettable.

Our ethos is to keep things simple, fresh and flavoursome so we work with some great local/welsh suppliers to achieve this, see our menu for details.

when we do things

Fridays and Saturdays 6pm-10pm, more nights to follow.

Call 029 2037 1929 to book a table or order a takeaway

Brava – 71 Pontcanna Street, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9HS. www.bravacardiff.co.uk

175 Kings Road, Pontcanna, Cardiff, CF11 9DF 02921 321211 / hello@gojihair.com / www.gojihair.com

T I F gojihair

Reach the best in the west Affluent, active and influential and just a call away

Cardiff Life team 01225 475800

SHOPPING

FA S H I O N

WORK IT! If the thought of dropping temperatures and grey skies have sent you into a winter outfit rut – you’re not alone.

Dressing for work underneath a giant puffer coat every day can sometimes feel a little uninspired, so we’ve found some work styling essentials to give you some inspiration

I

t’s safe to say the days of stuffy, illfitted suits are long gone (hurrah!) but that doesn’t mean you can’t rock a two piece in the office. Instead, look for a modern take on the suit and opt for a pair of high-waisted culottes and a quirky yet understated jacket, like these pieces from Vivienne Westwood (4 & 8).

Finish the look with a cross body bag, like this stunning green statement piece from Oliver Bonas (9) to add a pop of colour to the outfit.

Wide leg trousers were a huge trend in 2017, the trend doesn’t show any signs of changing this year and we are pretty happy to hear this – they’re versatile, on trend and comfortable… What more could you want!?

We are totally in love with this pair from Whistles at John Lewis (6) that are giving us some seriously 70s vibes. Pair with a lightweight knit or a cute button down and throw over a long line, tailored coat for a super chic and easy look.

When it comes to putting the finishing touches to an outfit it’s all about comfort and practicality, but that doesn’t mean you have to forget about style. The backpack is having a major fashion revival at the moment and we can’t get enough. We are lusting after this black leather Michael Kors bag (5) which is able to go with any outfit you might pick out. We also love these Kurt Geiger boots with a tortoiseshell Perspex heel (10) which will add an edge to any look.

All items available at St David’s Dewi Sant in Cardiff at the time of writing. To keep up to date with the latest trends, news and offers, see St David’s on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter (@ StDavidsCardiff) or at stdavidscardiff.com 44 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Links Rib Jumper, £55, and Dancing Stripe Skirt £49.50, Oliver Bonas

FA S H I O N

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SHOPPING

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1. Anais Bell Sleeve Top, Blush, £45, Coast 2. Khera Wool Cashmere Blend Wrap Coat, Light Grey, £359, Ted Baker 3. Funnel Cropped Neck Wool Jumper, Rust, £109, Whistles 4. Pyjama Stripe Franco Trousers, £285, Vivienne Westwood 5. Rhea Leather Backpack, Black, £295, MICHAEL Michael Kors 6. Check Cropped Wide Leg Trousers, Grey, £129, Whistles 7. Greca Wide Rib Crew Neck Top, Navy, £110, Reiss 8. New Windmill Jacket Black, £395, Vivienne Westwood 9. Suedue & Leather Clayton tote, £130, Oliver Bonas 10. Strut Block Heeled Ankle Boots, Black Leather, £119, Kurt Geiger www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 45

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STATE of the HEART TREAT YOUR SWEET THIS VALENTINE’S DAY...

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1. TICK OF THE BUNCH

2. NECKING ORDER

3. SWEET!

4. WALLET, OR WON’T IT?

5. WISE WORDS

Oversize Bradshaw Blue watch, £249 We love the kinda-indigo pop of colour and classic look of this MK timepiece.

You can even personalise it with a loving message to your other half From Michael Kors, 19 The Hayes, Cardiff michaelkors.co.uk

Petal print scarf, £28 Gorgeous pinks, oranges, peaches and florals – and goes with pretty much anything From Oliver Bonas, 37 The Hayes, Cardiff; oliverbonas.com

Charbonnel et Walker Sipsmith gin truffles, £13 Ooh, yes – chin-chin!

From John Lewis, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff; johnlewis.com

Balmoral heart card holder, £75 She’ll appreciate this cute little number from Dame Viv From Vivienne Westwood, 55 The Hayes, Cardiff; viviennewestwood.com

Everything I Know About Love, £12.99 Wildly funny and heartbreaking book about navigating love, by former Sunday Times dating columnist, Dolly Alderton From Waterstones, 2A The Hayes, Cardiff; waterstones.com

48 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOPPING

ED’S CHOICE

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6. BADGE OF HONOUR

7. COMME AS YOU ARE

8. WORK LIKE MAGIC

9. MIXING IT

10. EAR, EAR

Love heart enamel pin, £7 Good things, small packages, and all that From Home By Kirsty, 64A Glenroy St, Roath; homebykirsty.com

Concrete eau de parfum

by Comme des Garcons, £115 (80ml) Typically quirky and unconventional, as daring a fragrance as we’ve come to expect from the trailblazing Japanese fashion label From Central Pharmacy, 63-67 Wellfield Road, Roath; escentual.com

Grown Alchemist mandarin and rosemary body cream, £19 Nourishes, moisturises and soothes dry skin – job done From Central Pharmacy, 63-67 Wellfield Road, Roath; escentual.com

Pineapple gold glass cocktail cup, £26 You’ll need to shake up lovely cocktails to go with it, naturally From Oliver Bonas, 37 The Hayes, Cardiff; oliverbonas.com

Toolally half-moon drop earrings, £45 A nod to classic 60s geometric shapes – Twiggy would most definitely approve From John Lewis, St David’s Dewi Sant, Cardiff; johnlewis.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk II CLIFTON CARDIFF LIFE LIFE II 49 www.mediaclash.co.uk 69

LOCAL

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HANDMADE

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UNIQUE

01446 677 171 info@adamelliot.co.uk Unit 51, Vale Business Park, Cowbridge CF71 7PF

www.adamelliot.co.uk

54 I cARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

R E S TA U R A N T

FOOD

Waterloo Gardens Teahouse The original and best – Kasim Ali’s innovative tea venue in Penylan continues to flourish

By E L I SA BE T H M A HON E Y

I

t is a truth universally acknowledged that the Cardiff food scene has transformed in recent years. Especially in the small-scale independent sector – pop-ups, residencies, temporary ventures, street food and creative collaborative ventures – the foodie landscape is now considerably more dynamic and diverse.

This is partly due to the vision of determined foodie risk-takers. Ten years ago, former pharmacist Kasim Ali opened Waterloo Tea Gardens in Penylan, bringing serious tea-drinking to the city. It was novel, stylish and so much more of an experience than grabbing a hurried double tall latte in a coffee shop. I can still remember the particular tea (and delicious cake) I had when I visited soon after it opened in 2008. I took some tea home, too, with tasting notes and tips on serving, and felt as if my eyes had been opened to a whole new world. It was, you sensed, a potential game-changer for Cardiff, and so it proved to be.

Others saw its success, and took inspiration from that to launch their own independent food businesses.

A decade on, and there are now four Waterloo Teas, with branches also in Penarth, Wyndham Arcade and Lakeside.

I returned to the Penylan branch, for tea and lunch this time, and was glad to see it has kept the original blend of serenity, space and light, with simple wooden furniture giving an earthy, grounded atmosphere. If Waterloo Tea was a yoga posture, it would be the Tree Pose. This is the sort of thing you find yourself thinking as you read the extensive tea menu with detailed tasting notes to rival a wine list at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Our tea sommelier approves my choice of Silver Needle, a non-oxidised white tea made from the first spring buds of a Fujian tea plant. He likes to drink this before meditating; I chose it mainly because I was mourning taking the Christmas tree down. My husband opts for an

IF WATERLOO TEA WAS A YOGA POSTURE, IT WOULD BE THE TREE POSE...

oolong, the Iron Goddess of Mercy, because of the name, which he then gets wrong when he orders, confidently referring to it as the Iron Maiden of Mercy. These are served with a cool, dinky egg-timer that does three, four or five minutes in different colours of sand – all rather more evocative than setting a timer on your phone. My tea is like a sunny winter’s day in a cup, cool and crisp, while the Goddess, as you might expect, is riper and stronger, with a full body and apricot notes.

The lunch menu features a range of sandwiches and salads, plus soup of the day (a breakfast menu is available, as is afternoon tea). We both have mushroom soup and it’s simply outstanding, with a delicious depth of flavour, stunningly well-judged seasoning and, as it’s vegan, it lets the mushrooms do the talking instead of a swirl of cream.

The taste is so beautifully balanced that even a small garnish of coriander leaves is much more than decorative, working hard to counter the richness to great effect. It’s served with hearty chunks of seeded wholemeal bread that demand to be dunked.

Our mains are equally good. Husband momentarily stops going on about the goddess when his Welsh rarebit arrives. It’s a classic, with no annoying innovative touches: the perfect blend of savoury and sweetness from the leeks and chutney. In the spirit of Veganuary and having read that vegan eating is the big trend for 2018, I choose a second vegan dish: spiced cauliflower, candied beetroot and hummus on sourdough. This is another dish from a kitchen that works flavour wonders with simple ingredients. The mildly spiced and lightly sweet cauliflower is elevated by teaming up with candied golden and purple beet and a slick of devilishly rich, garlicky hummus on great bread.

If we had room for dessert (sadly, we don’t) there are insanely tempting cakes on offer with plenty of gluten- and dairy-free options. I take a photo of them so I can at least look at them later – I know how sad that sounds, but it’s a memento of a lovely lunch in one of Cardiff’s best. We may take Waterloo Tea for granted now, but ten years ago, it was truly innovative. It’s brilliant to see it flourishing, and still leading the way.

DINING DETAILS Waterloo Gardens Teahouse, 5 Waterloo Gardens, Penylan CF23 5AA; Tel: 02920 456073, waterlootea.com Opening hours Mon-Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 9am-6pm Prices Teas from £2.50, breakfast dishes from £2, lunch dishes from £5, afternoon tea £13.50 Vegetarian choice Exemplary, with tons of meat-free and dairyfree options; plenty of GF choice, too Service/atmosphere Relaxed and really friendly. Winning combination of great tea expertise, enthusiasm and charm

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 55

F O O D & D R I N K A D V E R T I S I N G F E AT U R E

COCKTAIL HOUR Dean Euden from the WINE & SPIRIT EDUCATION TRUST (WSET) suggests a couple of cocktails ideal for V-Day, whether you're drinking á deux or celebrating single-style

V

alentine’s Day! The only date in the calendar that we, as an entire population, are obligated to channel our romatic side. Overcrowded restaurants and disappointment sprinkled with the magic fairy dust of fixed ‘special’ Valentine’s Day menus is the general order of the day. Not for me…stay in and make some celebratory, fit for the occasion, Champagne cocktails would be my suggestion.

Here are two humdingers for you and your loved one or, if you’re single, for some friends you like well enough to buy champagne for.

RAMOS CHOCOLATE FIZZ COCKTAIL (THE MODERN ONE) Invented by the legendary Simon Difford at the Cabinet Room in London a few years back, it’s a champagne cocktail that incorporates chocolate liqueur. You really can’t get more Valentine's Day than Champagne and chocolates now can you?

• 50ml Dry Gin (don’t go new wave, 800 botanicals gin…classic London Dry style is best) • 45ml Crème de Cacao (white) • 4ml (or just under a teaspoon) of orange flower water • 4ml (or just under a teaspoon) of Vanilla extract (NOT essence) • 30ml egg white • 30ml Single Cream • 30ml Brut NV Champagne Shake up everything apart from the Champers in a cocktail shaker with ice, then strain into chilled Champagne flutes and then top with the Champagne. If you like opulent and creamy tipples this is the one for you.

CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL (THE CLASSIC ONE) This cocktail dates back to the 1800s. It’s simple but rather clever and, if made well, will have you coming back for it time and time again.

• Cube of brown sugar (per flute glass) • 3 dashes (per cube) of Angostura bitters • 30ml VSOP Cognac • Brut NV Champagne Chill the glasses and Cognac in the freezer before making the cocktail. Soak the sugar cube with the 3 dashes of bitters and drop into the bottom of the chilled flute, then pour the chilled Cognac over the sugar cube and top with the Champagne. Drink slowly to allow the sugar to dissolve and liberate the bitters. This is a cocktail that changes with every sip…it’s a classic for a reason folks.

wsetglobal.com

Cardiff Life

is now available to download. www.mediaclash.co.uk

FOOD

RECIPES

FAR AWAY FLAVOURS The Admiral St David is an entirely new restaurant concept for Wales and the south west, serving up an exotic melting pot of fresh Australasian flavours. Its menu draws on influences from Indonesia, Japan, Sri Lanka, and Australia, with executive chef Martyn Watkins adding a Welsh twist by utilising the freshest local produce. Two popular dishes from its newly created menu have been chosen to give readers a flavour of Australasia in their very own homes

ADOBO CHICKEN WINGS Ingredients 10 whole chicken wings, tips removed 110 ml rice vinegar 96ml soy sauce 1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns 8 garlic cloves, crushed 2 bay leaves 3/4 tsp kosher salt 1 tbsp fresh lime juice 300ml water

58 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Method 1. Mix together all the ingredients, apart from the chicken wings, in a large bowl.

2. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to ensure the wings are coated with the mixture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the wings to marinate.

(Serves 4)

3. While the chicken marinates, preheat the oven to 200ยบC/400ยบF/gas mark 6.

4. Transfer the wings and the marinade into a medium casserole dish. Cover and bake for around 30 minutes until the wings are tender.

5. Remove the pot from the oven and transfer the wings to a foil lined baking sheet. Reserve 2 tbsp of the cooking liquid and discard the rest.

6. Heat a large frying pan and fry the wings, flipping once, until dark and crispy. You may need to fry in batches.

7. Toss the wings in the reserved cooking liquid to glaze and serve hot with your favourite dip. (We suggest chilli or sour cream).

RECIPES

CHICKEN LAKSA (Serves 3-6)

Ingredients For the laksa paste: 6 dried long red chillies 1 tsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp sweet paprika 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1/2 tsp ground turmeric 1 brown onion, chopped 2 lemongrass stalks, white part only, chopped 3cm piece galangal, peeled, chopped 5 cashew nuts 2 garlic cloves, chopped 2 tsp shrimp paste 1 tbsp peanut oil For the laksa: 100g egg noodles 500ml chicken stock 6 chicken thigh fillets (about 600g), trimmed, skin on.

8 cherry tomatoes, halved 2 tsp caster sugar 1/2 tsp sea salt 100ml coconut milk 200g green beans, ends trimmed 100g bean sprouts, trimmed 50g coriander sprigs 50g mint leaves, roughly chopped 1 shallot, finely sliced (to serve) 200g salted butter 3-6 eggs, one per person (optional, to serve)

FOOD

Method 1. Place the dried chillies in a small heatproof bowl. Cover with boiling water and stand for 10 minues until softened, then drain.

2. Place coriander, paprika, cumin and turmeric in a small frying pan over medium heat. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes or until fragrant. Allow to cool completely.

3. Place chillies, onion, lemongrass, galangal, nuts, garlic, shrimp paste and spice mixture in a food processor and blitz until finely chopped. Add oil.

Process until a smooth paste forms.

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

4. Soak the noodles in warm water for 10 minutes or until soft. Drain and set aside while you make the laksa.

5. Heat the chicken stock in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Once hot, whisk in the laksa paste.

6. Add the chicken, tomato, sugar and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and simmer for 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

7. Add the coconut milk and beans and simmer for a further 5 minutes or until the beans are just tender.

8. Fry the shallot until crispy.

9. To serve, divide the noodles among deep serving bowls and spoon over the chicken and laksa broth.

10. Melt the butter and fry the eggs (if using) sunny side up and place on top of the laksa. Scatter with coriander, mint and shallots to garnish. admiralstdavid.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 59

COME AND SEE THE NEW LOOK BEAUTY ADVANCE SKIN & LASER CLINIC OFFICIAL OPEN DAY

MARCH 3rd 2018 - CALL NOW FOR TICKETS We’re excited to offer you free consultations with our skincare specialists, doctors wellness advice, and a tour of the new clinic with food catered from Jamie Olivers!

50% off deals to be had on the night Special Occasions | Gift Cards Available *T&C’s Apply

02920 529 552 beautyadvance@googlemail.com www.beautyadvance.com

More adventures in party-going

SNAPPED! AC ROS S CA R D I FF, O N E S H I N D I G AT A T I M E

IN YOUR DREAMS Two events were held recently to raise money for the Dreams and Wishes charity. A Winter’s Dream Dinner in the Coal Exchange was a huge success raising thousands of pounds for seriously ill children and their families. West End singers performed on the night, and Jayne Pierson, an award-winning fashion designer, designed and auctioned a bespoke piece to help grant more wishes to families going through a very difficult time.

For more: dreamsandwishescharity.org

Wendy Hobbs, Ambassador for Dreams and Wishes Charity was delighted that John Lewis, Cardiff, hosted a charity Claudia Quash Series book-signing event .

It was a magical day, attended by volunteers from the charity, Miss Little Divine UK and a choir from WestBourne School, Penarth, who sang carols in the store.

64 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

BAND AID Take That fans had a night they’ll never forget on 9 January as Mark, Gary and Howard made a surprise appearance at the opening night of new musical The Band at Wales Millennium Centre.

Before the show a small drinks reception was held for press and invited guests.

For more: wmc.org.uk

Howard Donald, Gary Barlow, Mark Owen (Take That) LLinos Lee (Heno) and guest

Daf James (Composer, Tiger Bay) and Jayne Brewer (WMC)

Jay Curtis (Nation Radio) and guest

Nathan Wyburn, Nicola Harries, Kelly Reardon-Brown, Wayne Courtney (Radio Cardiff)

Nia Elias (WMC) and Kelly Allen (blogger) Gary Barlow

The audience are loving it!

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 65

a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e L E G A L

Breaking up is hard to do Do you need expert legal help with family matters?

BERRY SMITH LAWYERS in Cardiff and Bridgend, experts in this field, can answer all your questions.

I

have recently separated from my partner, who I have lived with for more than eight years. We lived together in my partner's house, which she owned following her divorce from her husband.

Whilst we discussed putting the property into joint names over the years, we never got around to it and, now I have left, my partner says she doesn't have to give me anything. Is my partner right?

Over the years I have paid towards improvements to the property (paying for a conservatory and decking in the garden). We shared all utilities, and food expenses together; I thought that we'd be there forever.

from the sale). However, it is possible that you may have obtained an interest in your partner's home in consideration of the discussions that you had with her, your financial contributions to building improvements and towards the general upkeep. Cases such as these, whilst becoming increasingly common, remain complex and I would recommend that you seek independent legal advice from a family lawyer so that you consider your options. CL

a: If, as you say, the property is owned in your

Please feel free to contact our family team for advice on a whole range of family matters on 02920 345511. berrysmith.com

partner's sole name, and you can go only by the records held at HM Land Registry, then if it were to be sold she would be the recipient of the proceeds of the sale (less expenses

Katie McColgan, Partner (Family Department) at Berry Smith

Shake-ups/launches/successes/promotions

CA R D I FF G E T S S ER I O US Vale Resort wins big!

QUOTE OF THE ISSUE

“WE’RE EXTREMELY EXCITED FOR WHAT WILL BE ANOTHER SELL-OUT NIGHT OF CELEBRATION”

BIG WINNERS

TWICE AS NICE The Vale Resort scooped not one, but two prestigious awards at the ‘Oscars of the travel industry’ It was a double celebration at the Vale Resort in Hensol after it was crowned as both Wales’ best golf hotel and best resort spa by an international awards body that recognises excellence in tourism.

The four star hotel and leisure venue, in the Vale of Glamorgan, was named Wales’ Best Golf Hotel 2017 at the 4th annual World Golf Awards, held at La Manga Club, Spain. The Vale Spa at The Vale Resort was then named Wales’ Best Resort Spa 2017 at the 3rd annual World Spa Awards, held at the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, Vietnam.

Both ceremonies are organised

by the World Travel Awards, which describes itself as “the ultimate hallmark of industry excellence”.

The organisation holds various awards ceremonies to reward the best travel and leisure organisations in the world, which have been described by the Wall Street Journal as the ‘Oscars of the travel industry’.

Stephanie Metson, marketing manager at the Vale Resort, said: “For the Vale Resort to be named in two different award categories in the same year is an outstanding achievement and a testament to the hard work of all of our staff.

“We have always said that our hotel, with its two championship

golf courses located in 650 acres of beautiful Welsh countryside is very special, so it is an honour to have this recognised.

“Likewise we know our Vale Spa, which is Wales’ largest spa, offers a unique and luxurious experience for customers that sets us apart from the competition.

“We pride ourselves on putting our customers at the heart of everything we do to ensure they have a memorable experience every time they visit. These awards will inspire us to maintain our high standards so we continue to excel.”

For more: valeresort.com

Oooh, what is it? And will you be there? See page 71 for more…..

£1m THE BIG NUMBER

That’s how much Cardiff bartender has cashed in behind the bar at Brewhouse, St Mary’s Street since he started working there four years ago For more: brewhousecardiff.com

Got a business news story for us? Email emma.dance@mediaclash.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 69

STYLISH SLEEPS

BIZ Q&A

MARK FREEMAN Mark Freeman is the executive chef at the Hilton and heads up the hotel’s contemporary restaurant, Grey How long have you been working at the Hilton?

I’ve been here for five years, having previously worked at Park Plaza Hotel and Laguna restaurant. Before that, I spent five years supervising the running of four restaurants in the Venditto Restaurant Group.

When did you begin cooking?

I was interested in cooking from a very young age, always helping my mum out in the kitchen.

She was a wonderful cook and the house was always full of the smell of her bara brith or Welsh cakes, so you could say I’ve been cooking for more than 40 years.

What first inspired you to cook professionally?

I realised my interest in cooking was starting to become serious when I was one of just three boys in my whole school to take home economics. Back in the early 80s it was almost unheard of. Studying techniques at school and college turned my hobby into something I then realised could become my career.

What was your first job in the industry?

Like many chefs, I started out washing dishes!

My first ‘real’ job in the industry was back in 1985 as a chef at the Park Hotel (now the Jury’s Inn Hotel). I counted myself lucky to have a policeman as a dad, as he knew everyone and helped me get that very first job as a proper chef. After that, I moved to London, Scotland, West Wales and then back to Cardiff, which is where I’ve been for the last 18 years.

Is there someone in the industry that you admire and try to learn from?

I really admire Marco Pierre White for the success he’s achieved with his restaurants and 70 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Hotel Indigo® has opened on Queen Street. The new hotel has 122 rooms, each designed to highlight three recurring themes – made in Wales, Welsh industries, and music. Guests are also able to dine on-site at the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse and Grill located on the top of the development. The restaurant seats 90 and comes with an exclusive roof terrace with views over the city. Hotel Indigo® Cardiff’s General Manager, Tom Gaskell, said: “Cardiff has become one of the UK’s top destinations for tourists and visitors due to its excellent leisure and sporting attractions and we are extremely proud to welcome guests to Hotel Indigo® Cardiff.”

Ihg.com/hotelindigo

the way in which he trains his younger chefs.

He has a great way of adapting everyday foods and turning them into something unique and special. And yes – I’ve already visited his new digs in Cardiff!

Proudest career achievement?

When I was younger, I was named the runner-up Welsh Chef of the Year which is something I’ve always been proud of. More recently, my proudest moment has been seeing my name on the doors of the Grey restaurant at the Hilton. When I was told the restaurant would be ‘Grey by Mark Freeman’, it brought a tear to my eye and I was just bursting to tell my family.

GOOD JOB

How would you describe the food scene in Cardiff?

I think there’s a lot of criticism around about the food scene in Cardiff, with people judging the city centre area where there are a lot of high street chains. There are so many budding independent restaurants with chefs producing high-quality food if you’re happy to travel a little further afield. Cardiff is a great place to experiment with amazing flavours and quality Welsh produce.

The largest provider of Jobs Growth Wales is urging businesses in Cardiff to sign up and take advantage of this year’s remaining allocation before 31 March deadline.

Itec Skills and Employment has 100 opportunities available for businesses in Cardiff to take up which involves the Welsh Government funding 50% of a 16-24 year old’s salary for 26 weeks.

Jobs Growth Wales is a jobs creation programme that was set up in 2012 to allow employers to offer opportunities to young people and create new roles within their organisation. Staff are paid a wage and benefit from gaining vital work experience and developing onthe-job skills while also supporting Welsh businesses to grow.

Jobs Growth Wales is open to all SMEs in Wales: employers wanting to find out more can contact Itec’s Jobs Growth Wales Team on 02920 710 511 or email jgwsales@itecskills.co.uk

For more: greyrestaurant.co.uk

itecskills.co.uk

Any regrets? Anything you would have done differently?

Often, people don’t realise how stressful it can be to be a chef. It takes a lot of time and dedication to your work to reach the top and the long hours can really take their toll. But for what I’ve managed to achieve, and all the amazing dishes I’ve experimented with and people I’ve worked alongside, I wouldn’t change a thing!

BUSINESS INSIDER

MOVERS, SHAKERS, ETC INDUSTRY ACCOLADE

Cardiff-based Coles Funeral Directors has received top industry accolade from The Good Funeral Guide.

For a relative newcomer in the ‘fusty old funeral industry’ – Coles Funeral Director is ‘doing things right’ according to the recently published recommendation by The Good Funeral Guide and customers who voted the family-run operation Business of the Year Award 2017 in the Local Link Magazine competition. colesfuneraldirectors.co.uk

FOOT IN THE ‘DOR

Award-winning restaurant group Bar 44 Tapas y Copas has today announced that ex Farthings of Cowbridge owner and family member Natalie Isaac will re-join the group as a director.

Natalie, who founded Bar 44 in Cowbridge with brothers Tom and Owen Morgan in 2002, has been working for the Bar 44 Group as a freelance operations consultant since selling her own successful restaurant Farthings in 2014.

Natalie’s role as operations director will be focused around developing the team, a critical part of ensuring excellence across its restaurants, working alongside commercial director, Tom and food and beverage director, Owen. bar44.co.uk

GOOD ENERGY

Savills Infrastructure and Energy Consultancy in Cardiff has been boosted by the appointment of Gwenllian Elias as an associate director.

Gwenllian joins from Innogy Renewables UK, where she was development project manager and led their team delivering the 16-turbine, 33 megawatt Mynydd y Gwair Wind Farm, a £57 million capital investment project, from conception through to construction. savills.co.uk

Congratulations to all our Finalists!

CARDIFF LIFE AWARDS

EXCITEMENT SURGES AS FINALISTS ARE REVEALED! The countdown begins to the glittering affair that is the Cardiff Life Awards so make sure you don’t miss your chance to get hold of one of the hottest tickets in town The all-important finalists for the Cardiff Life Awards are unveiled on pages 61-63 and excitement is ramping up ahead of Cardiff’s biggest-ever business awards. Twitter went into overdrive on January 30, with companies expressing elation and excitement at being named finalists. Grand Reveal day set social media alight and saw the online Cardiff community full of congratulations for all those worthy businesses who made the shortlist.

Tickets to the uberglam event have been in high demand for some time, and with the recent announcement of finalists are now in even shorter supply. The Awards are hosted by the rugby legend that is Nigel Owens, who presented last year’s sell out event memorably and superbly.

“Finalists secured the vast majority of the remaining tickets after the big announcement, and all are expected to go soon,” said Steph Dodd, event manager at MediaClash, Cardiff Life’s publisher. “The latest position will be updated via Twitter and email.

We’re overwhelmed by Cardiff’s support for the

TRUE VOCATIONS

A coveted VQ Award

Awards and we’re extremely excited for what will be another sell-out night of celebration.”

The surge in nominations and public interest this year means that this is set to be the biggest Cardiff Life Awards to date.

Before the big night, Finalists are invited to meet other hopeful winners, headline sponsors Cardiff Airport, and category sponsors at a special Sponsors’ and Finalists’ Reception on 21 February.

The Awards will take place at the super-elegant City Hall on 15 March.

Businesses can also get involved with the Awards through sponsorship. For details, contact Mark George Mark.George@MediaClash.co.uk The impressive sponsor roster is led by headline sponsor Cardiff Airport, and then Savills, Cardiff BID, WSET, Genero, Chapel 1877, Capital FM, Cardiff Blues, Robertsons Solicitors and Lexus Cardiff.

For more visit cardifflifeawards.co.uk or keep up to date on Twitter @CardiffLifeAwds

The search has begun for the star employers, learners and trainers across Wales who have used technical, practical and vocational qualifications to achieve success. Vocational Qualification (VQ) Awards in Wales offer individuals and organisations the chance to be recognised and rewarded for their commitment, hard work and achievements. Categories include Employer of the Year, Learner of the Year (Intermediate), Learner of the Year (Higher) and Trainer of the Year, which was introduced successfully for the first time in 2017. Nominations close on 2 March and the awards ceremony will be held at The Exchange Hotel, Cardiff on 3 May to coincide with VQ Day. For more information about the awards and to download a nomination form please visit vqday.wales

www.mediaclash.co.uk I CARDIFF LIFE I 71

FA M I LY L AW a d v e r t i s i n g f e at u r e

New Years’ Resolutions Rebecca oakley family law solicitors will always encourage you to review your options before you act.

M

any a new year begins with a resolution to make serious changes in your life. This can include deciding you want a divorce or wish to leave a longterm partner. There are situations, sadly, when an urgent exit strategy is required such as in cases where domestic abuse is a feature of the relationship. At Rebecca Oakley Family Law our solicitors, Rebecca and Belinda, will always encourage you to think first and act second but particularly to put any children’s needs first preferably without having to rely on the Court system. We want to help our clients to find a constructive way to sort out the arrangements for the children and the finances. It is rarely in a child’s best interests to only have one parent in their life and they may come to resent one or both

of their parents once they are older too if they are forced to choose.

We firmly believe that effective communication can be maintained between most separating couples, if only in respect of the child arrangements and will always encourage you to try and sustain a working relationship with your ex, as long as it is safe for you to do so. We do however understand that sometimes it is not possible for separated couples to speak directly which is where solicitors should assist in ensuring that their correspondence is not antagonistic and seeks to be productive not destructive whilst reaching for a resolution to the issues themselves.

There are a variety of options that can be explored to find out which form of communication will work best for the children and you in the short and longer term. Both Rebecca and Belinda

are long standing members of Resolution: First for Family Law which promotes a constructive approach to conflict resolution. We also support the use of mediation or alternative dispute resolution in all suitable cases. CL

If you have any questions, please contact us on 02920 532888.

Check us out at www.oakleyfamilylaw.com

Upper Porthkerry Farm Rhoose A truly magnificent and charming detached Grade 2 listed thatched cottage reputed to be built over 500 years ago, with tax records dating back to 1540, and occupying a large well defined plot of approximately 0.8 acre bordering open countryside with panoramic views across the valley and towards Porthkerry viaduct. This unique and particularly spacious five bedroom property of character has been sympathetically improved by the current owners to provide a well-designed family home, approached from a country lane via a long sweeping main entrance drive enclosed by electronic fob operated double gates. The extensive surrounding gardens include a large shaped decked sun terrace with hot tub and views stretching across open countryside, a particularly large main lawn bounded by garden trees and stone boundary walls and an outdoor fully covered heated swimming pool. Within the grounds there is also a former stone built wash house dating back 300 years, extensively renovated, constructed in stone, and providing versatile usage as either a gym, a home office, guest accommodation or a granny annexe. This wonderful family residence is finished externally in whitened render inset with replacement small pane solid wood windows, and approached by a pretty thatched porch way with natural slate threshold.

Extensive improvements include total re-plumbing, a new gas fired central heating boiler (2015 combi Worcester), complete with radiators, a damp proof course, a full rewire in 2015 with a wealth of 13 amp electric power points strategically placed throughout the capacious living accommodation together with a fully fitted bespoke open plan kitchen/ breakfast room and family room. Period features throughout include exposed stone walls, attractive beamed ceilings many recycled from a shipwreck from Barry Dock, an original farmhouse style stable door reputed to be 500 years old together with a medieval pennant stone positioned within the central hall, a National Monument of Wales reputed to be over 500 years old.

For sale with PA Black Cowbridge Branch 01446 775148

ÂŁ895,000

St Aubyns Llancarfan St Aubyns is a large five bedroom detached double fronted modern country residence, built 31 years ago for the current owners and commanding outstanding panoramic views across rolling green fields open countryside. This unique capacious family home is approached by a private gated dual access drive leading to a triple garage and a detached stable block with paddocks. The property is being sold with approximately 16 acres of clear uninhibited land, ideal for a growing family seeking equestrian facilities with an aspect unspoilt by development. Set within delightful manicured gardens and grounds this truly spacious home provides four large principle reception rooms, each with wonderful views, and three which open onto a wide pillared veranda which enjoys a south facing aspect with considerable privacy. The property benefits PVC double glazed windows, oil fired heating with panel radiators and a modern boiler (replaced in 2002), mains electricity, mains water supplied from a water meter located in Broad Close Farm, cess pit drainage, and fully paid off solar panels which currently provide a yearly rebate of £2300. Set within an exquisite location just a few minutes¹ drive from the delightful village of Llancarfan this impressive modern residence must be seen! The accommodation comprises an entrance porch, a large entrance reception hall (29’8 x 11’11), a ground floor shower room, a fitted open plan kitchen & breakfast room (21’10 x 16’8) and a separate utility room. The four reception room include a capacious lounge (27’9 x 16’9) inset with an Inglenook style fireplace, double glazed patio doors and a corner picture window boasting stunning views. There is also a large games room (19’6 x 12’0), a formal dining room and a further sitting room also equipped with a corner picture window with relaxing views across the surrounding fields and woodland. the first floor comprises five double sized bedrooms and two bathrooms, one ensuite to the spacious master bedroom (18’6 x 13’10). Outside the stable block includes five separate looseboxes with one currently being used as a tack room, leading to a fenced paddock/small ménage, whilst the in and out gated entrance drive benefit electric gates. A most spacious modern country house which benefits Cowbridge High School catchment, with local children collected by bus from Llancarfan Village!

For sale with PA Black Cowbridge Branch 01446 775148

£999,999

Savills 2 Kingsway, Cardiff CF10 3FD

02920 368 930 cardiff@savills.com

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

Y GOCYD A stunning period home with extensive grounds, set in the popular area of Pentyrch

By E M M A DA NC E 78 112I I CARDIFF CLIFTONLIFE LIFE I I www.mediaclash.co.uk www.mediaclash.co.uk

SHOWCASE

PROPERTY

www.mediaclash.co.ukI I CLIFTON CARDIFFLIFE LIFE I I 113 79 www.mediaclash.co.uk

PROPERTY

SHOWCASE

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nce a farmhouse, owned by the Castelly-Mynach estate, Y Gocyd (which translates as “the cuckoo”) is believed to be around 200 years old. But while steeped in history, both the property and the grounds have been extensively refurbished and renovated to create almost unparalleled contemporary, hi-spec living all within an enviable location.

Approaching the property via the sweeping driveway, you can’t help but be impressed by the beautiful elevated views across the mature and landscaped front gardens.

Stepping through the front door you find yourself in an impressive reception hall, full of natural light with doors leading to the drawing and sitting rooms as well as a study and a WC. Also on the ground floor is a light and spacious formal dining room, with a feature back-to-back fireplace, and an attractive kitchen complete with handmade units with granite worktops and numerous integrated appliances. The kitchen is open to a conservatory-style area making it a great family room, especially as it leads straight on to the back garden and patio areas.

Upstairs there are no less than five bedrooms, three with ensuite bathrooms. The master bedroom, in particular, has a real wow factor thanks to a unique dressing area nestled into the “turret” with views to the front garden and the fields beyond.

That’s not the end of the accommodation on offer, though. There’s a separate guest house too, with an open plan lounge/diner, double bedroom and luxury bathroom.

Opposite the guest house is an office with an open plan area including a lounge and a kitchen, as well as a luxury 80 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

In addition to the main building, Y Gocyd also boasts a guest house, office, stables and barns

HOUSE NUMBERS Y Gocyd, Heol y Parc, Pentyrch, Cardiff CF15 9NB

5

bedrooms

3

reception rooms

£1.6M price

6.5

shower room and a balcony with stunning countryside views – ideal for when you need some inspiration.

The grounds are immaculately presented, with expanses of manicured lawn, attractive patio areas with stone walls, and plenty of mature trees and shrubs, as well as five stables and two large barns.

With its gorgeous interiors and extensive grounds, coupled with a rural setting, yet still within easy reach of the vibrant city centre, this home really does offer everything you could wish for.

acres

5

stables

For more info, contact Savills, 5th Floor, 2 Kingsway, Cardiff CF10 3FD; Tel: 02920 368900, savills.co.uk

CARDIFF LIVES

Q&A

A

ward-winning jeweller Anne Morgan combs the coastline of Penarth for man-made and natural treasures to use in her work. In 2015, she opened her first gallery dedicated to contemporary jewellery in Penarth where she exhibits her work alongside more than 30 other makers.

Where’s home, and what makes it special?

I moved to Cardiff in 1997 but have lived in Penarth for the past 13 years. It’s somewhere we had always aspired to live when we first moved to Wales 20 years ago. It’s the best place to live, so near the city but right next to the sea and countryside, what more could you want?

You’re an award-winning jeweller – how would you describe your style?

I have a variety of collections and they all stem from the organic texture created on the metal’s surfaces. I often combine the silver with rough stones in free-form shapes. I try to create unique statement pieces, often as one-offs, but which are always wearable and timeless.

ANNE MORGAN

You recently won the award for Independent Jewellery Store of the Year at the Welsh Independent Retail Awards – as a jewellery business, what is it that sets you apart?

This was such a great achievement for us especially as we are so new to the high street.

We offer a back-to-basics, handmade approach to jewellery that offers the wearer a unique piece made straight in the workshop. Because it’s all handmade, ideas can be tweaked and adjusted to suit your needs. We also sell work from studio jewellers from around the UK, offering such an array of different materials and styles. You’d be hard pushed to leave us without finding some thing you like.

Proudest moment so far?

The day I opened Anne Morgan Jewellery.

It took a leap of faith, and a lot of hard work.

What’s new in your world right now?

Our new spring exhibition “Sp-Ring” features an exclusive selection of rings from some of the UK’s finest independent makers. We are thrilled that they accepted our invitation to exhibit with us, and it’s testament to the success of the first few years of business at Anne Morgan Jewellery.

What are you working on at the moment?

There’s always something new on the bench but we’ve been working on some unique AM signet rings. They’re strong, bold, organic, textured, and unisex. We’ve never really developed a men’s range but we’re really hopeful this is the start of something bigger.

How do you relax?

I’m a bit addicted to Pilates.

82 I CARDIFF LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

The talented jeweller on handmade versus mass-produced, favourite tapas and mint Matchmakers

Dream dinner party guests?

Like-minded crafts-people.

Guiltiest pleasure?

Mint matchmakers. I often keep them hidden in a cupboard to nibble on.

What’s the most important lesson life has taught you?

Not to sweat the small stuff. I’ve had a few horrible life-changing moments in my life.

Nothing is so bad that it can’t be sorted as long as you have your health and family by your side. Take a few risks in life – what’s the worst that can happen..?

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Alchemy. It would save me a fortune in materials.

Best thing about Cardiff?

The fact that there are so many independent stores. It’s great for us to have unique products to buy and hopefully this wave of independent shopping is here to stay. To eat in Cardiff is amazing at the moment. There are so many good restaurants. I still need to try out so many.

Locally, where do you like to eat and drink?

Bar 44 is amazing for tapas. For a girls’ night out The Ocho Lounge in Penarth is a winner.

Secret or favourite Cardiff spot?

Bute Park. Not very secret but it’s so amazing to have such a beautiful green open space in the heart of the city.

If you could get up on your soapbox about a particular issue, what would it be?

I guess what really gets under my skin is the lack of knowledge people have about handmade versus mass-produced. People are happy to spend a couple of hundred pounds on some designer brands that, in my opinion, are soulless, massproduced pieces but quibble about the price of a piece of handmade jewellery that has every mark of the maker on it, making it unique to the customer.

Mass produced has its place, for sure, but going back to basics to make something for life rather than the moment is surely the way we should be heading. I recently read a comment about the Welsh jeans brand Huit. People complained about the price. What they didn’t see is that this is a quality pair of jeans for life with free repairs, I’m sure you’d spend more on several cheap jeans that don’t last. Also the ethos of the brand is so cool.

Favourite shops in Cardiff?

Betti Biggs (Roath and Pontcanna) I love Jan’s eclectic mix of vintage furniture and quirky interior accessories.

Finally, surprise us with a little-known fact about yourself…

I have a Brownie’s badge in barn dancing and I can play the flute! annemorgan.co.uk

www.icebodysculpting.co.uk - info@icebodysculpting.co.uk 02921 202 190. 122 Cowbridge Road West, Cardiff, CF5 5BT