Glasgow – Page 2 – Curious Bystander

Glasgow – A West End development

Glasgow has a history of demolishing and rebuilding, a cycle that repeated during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.

It is rumoured that the Glasgow City Council, or the City of Glasgow District Council as it was known back then, may have demolished upwards of 38,000 to 40,000 tenement blocks. I’m uncertain if these numbers refer to entire tenement blocks or individual flats within them. The exact count remains elusive, but the consensus is that this approach was a disaster.

Instead of demolishing, they could have refurbished them, preserving their charm and the character of the areas involved. Unfortunately, the mass exodus to new areas, not only decimated community spirit but also led these residents to move into unpleasant, grey high-rises. Approximately, only 75% of THESE structures still stand, as the remaining 25% have ALSO been demolished.

In recent years, particularly in the West End of Glasgow, there have been plans to revamp Byres Road. The COVID pandemic may have caused delays, but there’s a concerted effort to make the area more cyclist and pedestrian-friendly, while reducing car accessibility. Plans were presented to the local community for voting through a website or at a community library in the West End (I believe); btw, I did not vote..

Judging from the photos (before the completed work), it doesn’t align with my vision of something positive. It appears monotonously grey, reminiscent of the old, grey, high-rises that replaced the tenements?

Although there is a smattering of red, the cycle of demolish, build, demolish, build – seems to be replaced with putting up something grey with a touch of red.

Several issues will arise, especially concerning the bike lanes. Pedestrians are already walking in them, and it’s unclear how they will function once completed. Additionally, the angles could pose challenges, making it difficult for moving cars to navigate, especially when encountering parked cars. Already, buses are experiencing delays due to these cars parked almost in the traffic lanes; creating significant traffic jams until the opposing traffic moves.

The effectiveness of this scheme will depend on how well it is policed. Monitoring and enforcement will likely be the key to the success of this initiative.

I’m not holding my breath.

Some “rose coloured” cafés to have lunch in – When did this trend start?

Interesting. The other day, I decided to explore the trendy Finnieston scene in Glasgow with my partner in crime. Over the last decade, this part of the city has witnessed an explosion of nightlife spots and a diverse range of places to eat, catering largely to a middle-class crowd.

During our exploration, we came across Derby Lane, a pub that doubles as a bar, café, and primarily a restaurant. Intrigued, we decided to have brunch there.

What caught our attention was the ambiance here, reminiscent of what I’ve seen years ago in London, particularly in Chelsea, when I walked by a place adorned with pink roses everywhere – on the outside, on tables, and on the walls. After an internet search, I’ve discovered that whilst in the process of going to Wimbledon, I believe in 2019, the place we stumbled upon was the Maitre Choux, that has now since closed.

Since then, a simple internet search reveals that these establishments have proliferated. I have no idea where this trend originated, but it’s fascinating how these places, whether classified as flower pubs, rose pubs, or girly pubs, have become widespread.

In fact, I believe they have now morphed into something called, rather horribly, Barbiecore pubs!? Who the hell started that tag?

Our brunch experience at Derby Lane was delightful. Priced at £11.00, the vegan breakfast was excellent (btw, I’m not a Vegan), and the service matched the quality of the food. As we enjoyed our meal, we couldn’t help but notice the diverse, young, crowd – I felt over-the-hill! A gang of three younger females had grabbed the window table, and I overheard that they couldn’t understand the concept of something called a “cd”!

I felt even more ancient. . .

The waiter, who seemed well-versed in all things Glasgow, engaged us in a pleasant conversation about just what to do that evening, as we had mentioned going to a choir concert.

He even shared some insights about a Gaelic choir in Govan, which I found particularly interesting. It turns out it’s located south of the river in Glasgow, contrary to what I initially thought – it’s not in the West End.

Overall, it was a very nice experience.

8 of 10

Equally, after running the dreadful Glasgow Half Marathon in October, the Merchant City part of the city was buzzing, and we managed to find a place at the Sorriso Cafe; yet another “rose” cafe.

This was again, completely middle-class and tolerable. Service was outstanding, considering it was packed, and the food was outstanding.

I had a stereotypical, egg and avo concoction, that was passable and was served incredibly quick.

8.5 of 10

Ryte

National November Writing Month – Been busy recently . . .

For those of you who might have missed me – not that you really did – I’ve been dedicating my last few months (a lot of preparation as well) to writing a book this year (and each year, since 2018). Don’t worry, they’re awful!

I once again decided to “enter” NaNoWriMo, the National November Writing Month, a rather peculiar challenge.

The task at hand? Write 50,000 words within the 30 days of November and proudly call it a “book”. This was the third time of 5 years that I’ve tried, where I’ve manage to breach the 50,000-word mark; alleluia!

What makes NaNoWriMo interesting is that it compels you to accomplish two things.

First, there’s the completion of the novel itself. When you start in November, is your choice, but the finish line is non-negotiable.

Second, it nudges you to establish a writing routine, a commitment of one or two hours every day, or even to wake up very early in your day, in order to write your 1600+ words per day! Surprisingly, I believe anyone can do it. Believe me, if I managed it, anyone can.

Now, here’s the catch: I’m not entirely sure if my book is any good. Furthermore, I doubt if it’ll ever see the light of day of a publisher or even self-publication (Ed; You’re being TOO optimistic!).

But, with over 650 million books sold in the UK in 2022, maybe? Just maybe. . .

However, the process does give you a goal, a tangible target to strive for. It’s undeniably intriguing when you have a daily commitment, a permanent deadline to adhere to. Yes, you can (and I did) fall behind schedule, but it’s possible to catch up. I wrote about 15,000 words the final week.

According to their website, over 400,000 took part around the world in the contest in 2022, with over 50,000 completing their novel. Not a bad ratio.

This year’s venture delved into the realms of historical science fiction blended with a touch of a murder mystery! The narrative revolves around certain urban myths that weave their existence in the fabric of Glasgow, Scotland.

Whether it turns out to be a masterpiece or a literary oddity, only time will tell.

Ha!

Ryte

Glasgow; various eateries; Nostrana & the Finnieston Fez

So I finally tried, after it was only open a few weeks, Nostrana, a new Italian place in Hyndland (just north of Soul Space in the link), Glasgow.

It was nice, very friendly service (my date spilled their coffee, and they were just SO helpful with them, even giving a new one FOC!), with food that at first seemed “small”, but was huge.

As usual, I felt that a normal dish would not be enough, wrong again! I ordered some bread, whilst the plus 1 chose their salad; both ample enough.

Well worth it, but no doubt during the winter, it’d be desirable to sit inside.

4/5

This brings us to the Finnieston Fez, located on the eastern edge of Finnieston, in the West End of Glasgow.

To be honest, this was a surprise, though I had walked past before and always had a hankering to sit in the window seat. I shall return.

While inside, I was literally the only one there (later there were more people and it became packed), and was confronted with several very lovely people. What a joy, they WANTED me to be there! Isn’t that a good feeling, that I never felt that I was intruding. There are MANY times, when I’ve gone to cafes, where the service was shocking, as in a “Why are you here?”. Well, it’s because “I’m a customer!”.

The menu is a Moroccan type of Mediterranean thing, and I opted for something simple – a Falafel Panini, and I just had to have the sweet, traditional, Moroccan tea – glad I did.

As for the Panini, it was flavourable and not overbearing. The tee-pee type of container contained slightly chillied olives.

I will return.

4/5

Kelvingrove Bandstand Concerts this Summer, Glasgow

Once again, the adage about something being on your doorstep, that you don’t even know about.

Kelvingrove Park Bandstand, West End, Glasgow

Had a walk on the weekend around the West End of Glasgow, and after hearing some music coming from the park, had another walk on the Sunday, and came across the above concert series; and they even had a drinks van from West Brewery in Glasgow!

I have to admit, I didn’t know a thing about this, and thoroughly enjoyed the hour I was there, listening to brass bands, one from the University of Glasgow.

Glasgow University Brass Band Ensemble, Glasgow

I would say that at least the powers that be, who run Glasgow, are attempting to have something for everybody here. This was a very friendly, family-oriented event – more please.

It also it is good, to see this once, run-down venue, being used more and more these days, particularly with their summer series concerts (rock, pop, etc) taking place here the last few years.

Very pleasant.

Cavavin, Hyndland – Cafe’ish & Wine Shop – Wonderful surprise

*Cavavin – Street Wine Bar with nibbles*

Cavavin has been here at the junction of Hyndland Road and Clarence Drive, only for about two years plus? Not too sure, but recently, or the last few months, they’ve offered a street service, though this may have been here longer (they also have a very small seated area inside, near the beer section in the back)?

Equally, it’s possible to have small side plates with your obscur’ish wine; the usual ones though quite delicious – humous, olives, etc. I had the hummus and pitta bread, which fitted perfectly (some portion!)

I hardly think this is bandwagon jumping, as there are simply not enough wine bars / wine and snacks type of places here; Lord, do we really need more cafes?

Though naturally, it is possible to get a coffee, tea and even a hot chocolate here as well.

I certainly look forward to the winter, when I’ll definitely be here on the odd mid-week evenings.

Jordanhill, Glasgow – the Prancing Stag – Restaurant

Have you ever walked, biked, carred, etc, by a place, and still never have gone there? This happened to me with the “Stag“, so after needing car repairs, we finally decided to pop in here; a place that has had numerous name changes over the years – I’ll be back.

As the name indicates, it has a Scottish / Scottish Highlands type of vibe going here, with food to match. We were brought out a free Aperitif that was a delight, particularly the butter, if that is what it was. I then ordered the Venison to share – a perfect mixture of meat and fruit.

The menu had a variety of meaty, fishy, and even non-meat dishes, that all were true to this theme and also to many other, “modern” restaurants in Scotland, particularly in the West of Scotland / Highlands.

Pork Belly & Chorizo and the Fish (x3) special on the evening

For the mains, we chose the crispy pork belly, that was perfect; crispy but at the same time, the meat melted from itself. My partner in crime simply loved the fish, it was also devoured.

This was both classical stuff and modern. They pulled it off perfectly, and a quick glance at the numerous reviews on TripAdvisor, will only confirm this.

The dessert was perfect, a parfait, with that new thing called “soil” – merely a crispy bit of crumbs, in this case chocolate.

In addition, the knives are this new type of design, where they can stay “standing up”, if laid on a flat surface.

5/5

Nowita Ice Cream – Hyndland Street, Partick, Glasgow

Part of Hyndland Street, Partick, Glasgow

What a cool little street this is. Maybe it’s the true diversity of the shops / businesses / cafes here; or maybe it’s that there are no chains?

Hey, I LOVE big chains, but at times, I’ve no time for them; the monotony, the sameness, etc; though I do love the prices.

For example, we will have another new business here (above), Nowita Ice Cream, that will be an ice cream shop / parlour – a welcome addition. Considering we have two on the nearby Byres Road, that have seemed to stay in business during the pandemic; here’s hoping this one can as well.

I’ve not heard of them before, so maybe they are a local business? We wish them luck.

Rickshaw & Co, West End, just off Byres Road, Glasgow – Different

The first thing that I had noticed when I was here a few weeks later, just to do a reckie, was that the menu was slightly different, and though there were familiar faves, it said on the label that this was a Bengali restaurant. If so, it must be a first for Glasgow? Though I’m not sure.

Rickshaw & Co, Partick Bridge Street, West End, Glasgow – Complete with Balcony

What really appealed, was that it is again, one of those type of “tapas” places, where the servings are allegedly smaller, and are brought to your table as and when they are prepared.

Believe me, the three of us had about two to three each, and it (along with some bread / nans) was more than enough.

Mural just outside the Restaurant

I had a hamburgy type of thing, that was similarish to American Sloppy Joes, though this was not as sweet, and had more of a slight kick to it. More of this please.

In addition, there seemed to be a multitude of spice bowls, where they certainly did not skimp on the portions.

This combined with a very attentive and knowledgeable service means I will return to check out the rest of the menu.

Final part of Thornwood, Glasgow – A popup art Gallery, Four Visions

The final part of my walk in Thornwood, extreme west of the West End, had us going into a pop-up art gallery, where the partner decided to purchase a mini- water colour of the Glasgow Underground.

Four Visions pop-up Art Gallery, Dumbarton Road, Glasgow

I don’t know how long this has been here, thought I’ve thought that I’ve seen it before.

Very small inside, very homely and no hint of pretence – thank God.

Various shots of the Pop-Up

Also to note, we were not the only ones there, here’s hoping they stay for some time. Some might call it populist, but surely that it exactly what some art deserves, particularly for the struggling artist.