The deliciousness of being lost

Oh the delight of it all.  The utter joy pouring from every delicate china teapot into beautifully decorated cups.

I am happily lost at the Hidden Lane Tearoom, surrounded by perfectly formed finger sandwiches and the most intriguing cakes.  Total bliss.  If Alice and the Hatter lived in Glasgow, they would definitely hang out here.

Tucked away on Argyle court, this magical tearoom is cosy and welcoming enough to feel like going to a friend’s house.  A friend who happens to have the most incredible taste in Brick-a-brack and serves up delicious, enjoyable treats.

Multi-tiered edible masterpiece

Although the menu offers more than afternoon tea, I can’t get away from the allure of tiny sandwiches and joyful cakes, so we excitedly await our tea-for-two.

When the edible multi-tiered masterpiece arrives it is nothing short of extraordinary – in fact it’s almost too beautiful to eat.  Almost.

And even if the lovely staff are used to the oohing and awing that no doubt happens every time they present these pleasures, they smile in approval just the same.

The selection of sandwiches is impressive. But it’s the interesting combination of  hummus and beetroot that takes me by surprise  – it’s good,  in fact it’s fantastic.  And the absolutely scrumptious selection of cakes have me nearly squealing with glee.

A mini blueberry pie type concoction is heavenly, customary scones and clotted cream are divine and oh the lovely mini Victoria sponge and chocolaty wee cakes.   I eat every last one, happily stuffed.

Not so secret

If you’d like to be happily lost, book because although hidden, the tea room has also been discovered by other joy-seekers.  And rightly so! It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon and raise a cup or two with friends.  And if you fancy something with a little more punch, you can bring your favourite wine or celebrate with bubbles – corkage is a mere £3.

Tea for two comes in at under £20 –money (and time) well spent in simply divine setting.

-T

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The Little Bird Market with big appeal

Vintage, craft, jewellery, trinket, clothing, cupcake, pretty, lovely, marvellous things heaven. 

That is how I would describe the utterly fabulous Little Bird Market at Sloan’s bar off Argyle Street (108 Argyle to be exact). 

I am literally like a kid in a sweet shop – well actually more like a kid in a cake shop because adding to the wonder is Mrs Sloan’s Cake Salon offering the most divine afternoon teas – dainty finger sandwiches, homemade scones and cakes served on beautiful china.

A treasure trove of local talent

Vintage and handmade clothes, jewellery, bags, accessories, cupcakes, stationery, cards, skincare, homeware and more.  This treasure trove shows off the talents of  local artists and specialises in the kinds of gifts that make people squeal with delight. Even better, it won’t make you shriek with pain because these treasures won’t break the bank.  

My fab finds at Little Bird Market

My only warning is that if you’re trying to buy for others – just accept that you can’t help but treat yourself.  It’s simply too good not to.  And at these prices why not.  Less than £ 20 later and I’m the jubilant owner of two fantastic rings (from the delightfully named hand over your fairy cakes), one vintage pearl and metallic broach (from love me again) and a vibrant, hand-crafted flower hair clip (from frayed at the edges).

Get yourself to the next event in November – or regret not going!

So if you haven’t been to the Little Bird Market, go – or regret it forever!   And if you’ve  already been, go again and spread the word.  I’ll certainly go back. 

The next event is happening on Sunday, 13 Nov noon – 5pm at Sloan’s Bar  (1st and 2nd floor) with another two events happening in December on the 4^th and 11^th, perfect for finishing up Christmas shopping or getting a little something special for yourself!

– T