Silent Sunday – 29 September

Sharmanka Kinetic – not for the faint of heart…

Explore for yourself – if you dare…

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To market we go

It’s always so satisfying when something actually is as brilliant as it looks.

Located in the heart of the Merchant City, Central Market certainly lives up to its enticing chic appearance.  But it’s not just a pretty space – the food is wonderfully delicious.

Set over two levels,  this intimate space is perfect for surreptitiously people-watching or catching up with friends.  And that’s exactly what I do.

Delicious choices galore

Somewhere between attentive servers, fluid conversation and crisp Prosecco, decisions are made.

And what fabulous choices – my pan-fried cod with butter beans and artichoke is melt-in-your-mouth heavenly.   The ricotta and herb dumplings and perfectly cooked steak also get rave reviews from my dinner companions.

Everything is bursting with flavour – a reflection of the fresh seasonal ingredients.

A small thing – but a nice feature, is the vast selection of tasty sides – from the more traditional skinny fries to the modern kale and exquisite combination of puy lentil and wild mushrooms.  Ordering a few and sharing with the table is a must.

Do save room for dessert

Do save room for dessert because it’s wrong to miss it.  My chocolate and beetroot brownie is sweet perfection.  But if you prefer savoury, the selection of George Mewes cheese, chutney and oatcakes is the perfect way to finish your meal.

But delicious food and a beautiful setting is nothing without great service.  Our waitress is not only helpful, making  excellent recommendations – but charming in all the right ways without being intrusive or phony.

Central’s ever-evolving seasonal menu will definitely draw me back.  Next up, Sunday brunch.  And if it’s as pleasing as their dinner,  I’m in for a true treat.

– T

Silent Sunday – 22 September

A bicycle built for deux awaits you at the Riverside Museum

@riversidemuseum

Cultivate your inner peace

It’s so easy to get caught up in the non-stop noise of the world.  And oh so difficult to quiet the mind.

But in the midst of the bustle of the Merchant City is a delightful oasis of calm nestled in on Hutcheson Street.

The Kadampa Meditation Centre Glasgow  is a peaceful sanctuary offering guided meditation and practical advice to detox the mind and rejuvenate the soul.

I am totally new to meditation and admittedly I have no idea what to expect.  In fact, I’m a little apprehensive. But I am greeted by possibly one of the most peaceful women on the planet – Gen Kelsang Devi – resident teacher and modern Buddhist nun.  She instantly makes me feel welcomed.

In with the good, out with the bad

I’m not sure if it’s the egg-shell blue surroundings or Gen Kelsang Devi’s soothing voice, but I am fully relaxed.   For the next half-an-hour she gently guides us through a series of reflections and visualisations – focusing on taking in the good and releasing anything negative.

An encouraging part of the meditation is that you are not merely doing it for the good of yourself but equally for the benefit of those around you.  It’s a nice thought.  And makes total sense – a calmer, happier and healthier you is better for everyone else too.

Better me, better world

And whether you’re completely new to meditation like me or a serene expert, Kadampa Meditation Centre has something for all  interests, abilities and schedules – offering morning, afternoon and after work sessions.

Their  workshops look rather intriguing too – from improving  relationships, to breaking bad habits and getting the most out of life.  And why wouldn’t you want these things.

In one session I have not fully mastered quieting my mind – but I do feel inspired and at ease.  It’s a wonderful start. I will be back.

So the next time the static of the world gets a bit too much, take 30 quality minutes for yourself – and inject your mind with a bit of Kadampa goodness.

– T

Silent (belated) Sunday – 15 September

Brrr it’s cold.  Warm up and work out with hot yoga at Infinity …

@infinityyogagla

Butterfly bliss awaits you at Boudoir

Boudoir wine bar is in the heart of the hustle and bustle of the Merchant City.  But the world outside disappears once I slip into the inviting curtained booth – and I’m instantly seduced by the chic but cosy Italian and French-inspired design.

Cocktail choices galore

The 12-page drinks menu is equally captivating, offering up a delicious range of unusual but delightfully named cocktails.

With its intimate setting and soft lighting, Boudoir is  perfect place for a saucy rendezvous.  Failing that, it’s ideal for shaking off the work day with friends on a Thursday night – and that’s exactly what I do.

After a quick up and down the menu – I begin with the Aivy Vodka and Fentimans Tonic.  It can only be described as dangerously delicious and refreshing.  A combination I highly recommend for vodka drinkers.

Variety is the spice of life

Hours pass like minutes and the conversation and cocktails flow.

Among our favourites are the delicate Violet Butterfly – a beautiful concoction of Giffard  Violette Liqueur, Finlandia Vodka, fresh lemon juice and prosecco.  With just the right hint of cinnamon, the  spicy Merchant of Venice is also tasty.

In the background a pianists sets the soundtrack to our perfect night.  And when – after a few drinks –  hunger calls, we choose from a delightful menu of reasonably priced light bites.  The cheese board is an absolute must.

We reluctantly stray from cocktails to a bottle of Petit Bourgeois red.  It’s anything but stuffy or predictable – it’s heavenly.  Just as refreshing, the staff are equally charming and accommodating.

So if you want round-up the week with friends in an sensational space, a secluded  booth at Boudoir awaits you.

– B

Silent Sunday – 8 September

Need a Sunday pick-me-up?  Big burgers joy at Max’s bar.

 

Silent Sunday – 1 September

Always warm and wonderful at the glass house
in the People’s Palace