bloom Magazine www.bloommagazine.co.uk • @bloommag • Find us on Facebook
The latest news direct from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
Issue 12: December 2012
What’s going on in your own neighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.
Shop Local : East Belfast
Happy Christmas to all our readers!
Serving food from 9am-2.30pm Monday - Saturday. Open late Thursday/Friday/Saturday evenings from 6.00-8.30pm (closing at 11pm) All our produce is sourced locally and is freshly prepared to order. Still taking Christmas bookings - ÂŁ24.95 for 3 courses - BYO NO CORKAGE!
52-54 Upper Newtownards Rd. Tel 028 9047 3670 For our current menus visit:
Este Bistro Este
www.bistroeste.co.uk
Contents
December 2012
Bloom : The local magazine for your community
4
Local News
All the latest headlines and events from the East and beyond.
10
Festive Fayre
We chat to local experts to get their food and drink tips for Chrimbo.
Welcome : If you weren’t already in a festive mood then
hopefully now you’re reading the December issue of Bloom you’ll have the mistletoe swinging from the rafters and be whistling Jingle Bell before the day is out. Some people take a while to get into the Christmas spirit. But we’ve a double celebration. Firstly of course because Chrimbo is poking its Santa hat right around the corner, but also because this edition marks the first birthday of Bloom! Unbelievable and probably the fastest year since records began at Casio all those years ago. There have been some crazy, crazy late nights, ridiculous early mornings, sweaty manic deadlines, heated discussions, ups, downs and sideways things too. And for all that we would like to thank you! Because although it has been a tough year, we have loved every minute and have met some wonderful new friends and colleagues along the way. Firstly thanks to our readers who have given us some lovely feedback from day one. Secondly to all the contributors and contacts who we deal with every month from PR to press offices to local businesses, community projects... the list goes on. Thirdly we would like to thank each and very one of our loyal advertisers. Our ethos from day one: Shop Local. We wanted to provide a new platform for them to promote their talent and we want to thank every single advertiser for their support and faith in what we are trying to do. Finally, a huge thank you to East Belfast. Without this amazing community, we would have absolutley nothing to tell you about. East Belfast is in Bloom.
Stuart, Angela, Juanita : Bloom Magazine Belfast @bloommag
Bloom Magazine 308 Albertbridge Road Belfast BT5 4GX Tel: 07719 104862
Editorial: stuart@bloommagazine.co.uk Advertising: angela@bloommagazine.co.uk Accounts: info@bloommagazine.co.uk Printed by GPS www.gpscolour.co.uk
Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Bloom Magazine or Newborn Media. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Links and contacts are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Bloom Magazine. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.
12
Christmas Decor
Find out how you can make your own bespoke decorations this Christmas.
16
Christmas Gifts
23
Health & Beauty
A special gift might just be a dander away. Check out the local delights.
The Secret Day Spa give us the lowdown on the best beauty treats for all budgets.
26
Cookbook
Stock up on local ingredients and tackle the recipes from Wagamama.
30
What’s On
34
Food Focus
Once again the East is alive with goings on, we have the lowdown.
We visit David and Sarah of Bistro Este whose menus are a joy to behold.
36
Rising Star
A visit to the Guitar Rooms would inspire anyone to take up playing.
38
Local Legend
Local historian Aidan Campbell and his book series chronicling East Belfast.
East Belfast is in Bloom www.bloommagazine.co.uk 3
Bloom News
Your local news & views
A Christmas Carol Comes to Life at Titanic Belfast The World’s Largest Titanic Visitor Experience, Titanic Belfast, will take visitors back in time this festive season, bringing A Christmas Carol to life. The Andrews Gallery within Belfast’s iconic building will be transformed into a 19th Century scene of hustle and bustle and festive celebration on snowy cobbled streets. Father Christmas: Child (Under-13): £15pp - Includes entrance to Victorian Christmas Experience plus a visit to meet Father Christmas, a photograph to cherish, and a gift from Father Christmas Adult (Child 13+): £4pp. Includes entrance to Victorian Christmas Experience plus non-alcoholic Christmas Punch and a mince pie/shortbread. Open every day from 26 Nov to 23rd Dec; 10am – 7pm (30 minute time slots). 30-40 minute experience. www.titanicbelfast.com 028 9076 6399 or 02890 766386 victorianchristmas@titanicbelfast.com
Alyson Hamill Joins the Team at Peter Oliver Hairdressing in Ballyhackamore
Alyson started her career with the legendary Bill Harris, then with Bill joined up with Toni & Guy where she benefited from their great training. After ten years she left to work with Bill in his new salon in Stranmillis. Alyson then moved to Portugal for five years to further her career. Since returning from Portugal she has worked in Blue for this past year. Peter Oliver said, ‘We are absolutely delighted Alyson has decided to join us and look forward to welcoming her clients.’ If you would like to book an appointment with Alyson, phone the salon on 028 9067 1058. www.peterolivers.com The J Bird Bakery Christmas event is on Thursday 6th December from 5.30pm-8pm at the bakery. It will be a chance for people to sample some new Christmas flavours and have a first look at their selection of Christmas gift boxes, cakes and gateaux. And a wee cheeky glass of mulled wine to kick off the festive season! 129 Bloomfield Avenue. Tel 028 9045 7293. www.jbirdbakery.com
Local Annual Festive Fair is Back! Keep the winter chill at bay as Belmont Tower host their fantastic indoor Christmas fair on Saturday 1st December from 10am-3pm. There will be a selection of local crafters selling their goods. Unique bargains galaore, home made goodies plus the coffee shop will be open as usual for a cuppa and a nibble in between shopping. Come along for some mulled wine and mince pies, Christmas music performed by Bel Canto School of Singing plus local crafts. www.belmont-tower.co.uk 4 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Kenneth Michael Pride at Awards Triumph Ken McClure and Steven Jones of Kenneth Michael Hairdressing have managed and trained the NI World Hairdressing Team since 2004. The first championship they entered took place in Milan, taking the silver medal and they have since travelled to Moscow (bronze), Chicago (gold), Paris and Milan again this year where Photo: The Image Studio, Lisburn they gained 7th place out of 53 countries earning a bronze in the European titles. The medals were awarded to the team at the Hairdressers Ball in the Hilton Belfast. Ken and Steven were doubly proud as one of the team is Kenneth Michael’s Senior Stylist Ryan Ebbitt who completed amazing work in both the long hair and bridal sections finishing 11th out of 100 competitors. Also on the night, Ryan was awarded the NI Stylist of the Year awar at the NI Hairdressing Awards followed on Monday by the NI Gents Hairdressing Championships and the Ladies Hair by Night Championships! Ken, Steven, Ryan and the team welcome new and existing clients. ‘We have a warm friendly and inviting atmosphere and although we are a world class multi-award winning salon with 28 years experience, our prices have always remained competitive.’ 221-223 Woodstock Road, Belfast, 028 9045 5740. Pay a festive visit to The Belmont Road who host their Christmas event on Saturday 8th of December from 2pm onwards. You can expect a whole host of fun and surprises with face and nail painting, Christmas craft, Santa’s grotto, treasure hunt with prizes, Santa’s postbox and Carol singers. Always a great event and if you’re not feeling the festive vibe before it you certainly will after! Call in and do some gift or food shopping while you’re there or grab a late lunch. Enjoy.
Celebrate Christmas at Yaro The Yaro Christmas Evening is on Thursday 6th December, between 5pm and 9pm with drinks and nibbles, raffle prizes worth £200 for their chosen charity the Samaritans and 20% discount on REN products. The very popular Christmas spice candles are back in stock, OPI 007 nail colour collection and a few tasty foodie gifts up for grabs! Kay from Yaro says, ‘This year’s chosen charity is the Samaritans, often a forgotten listening ear when times are difficult. Your kind donation helps to keep their help lines open. A totally self funded and voluntary organisation which has been working tirelessly for over 50 years. Raffle tickets can be purchased in the salon or go to www.justgiving.com/kayatyaro to make a donation.
Kay Armstrong
Yaro are offering one Bloom reader the to 114 chance to win Bloomfield Avenue £100 worth of REN Skincare goodies. All you have Belfast BT5to 5AEdo is answer this question: How long have the Samaritans Tel: 028 9045 7717 been working tirelessly for? Email your answer to www.yaronaturalhealth.co.uk info@yaronaturalhealth.co.uk Closing date is Friday 21st December to give the winner enough time to collect their prize before Christmas. Good luck!
! MPETITION
CO
the essence of healthy living
www.bloommagazine.co.uk 5
Bloom: News Blowing Up a Storm in Parks
A gardening lesson with David Kelly and Brian Sheppard
Lord Mayor, Alderman Gavin Robinson, blew up a storm of leaves during a visit to work alongside frontline staff in local parks. He visited both Victoria and Ormeau Parks with staff at both parks happy to help him get his hands dirty. The Lord Mayor joined in as workers marked out pitches, pruned flower beds and shifted leaves in Victoria Park in east Belfast. Alderman Robinson said: ‘This is one in a series of visits I am making to frontline staff. It is important to understand the conditions under which they work, and it is a chance to meet them and let them know their work is appreciated. ‘
Jay’s Male Grooming is the first salon of barber Jason Millar at 157 Bloomfield Avenue. Jay’s offers an extensive variety of grooming services at affordable prices and are stockists of the best male grooming products available. Jay’s comprises a first class male grooming experience plus injections of Millar’s personal style; from the graffiti wall to traditional Belfast brick. Sit back, relax, enjoy a cool beer or a coffee and a personable, luxury wash, style, cut or one of the other first class services including luxury hot towel shaves, restyles, massage, teeth whitening, grooming packages and concierge service. Appointments not necessary, but can be made; 028 90 46 98 30. www.jaysmalegrooming.com
The RSPB’s Christmas Craft Fair takes place at Belvoir Forest Park on Saturday 8 December from 10am4pm. The fair will celebrate and showcase the talents of local artisans and craftspeople whilst raising vital funds for RSPB NI. There will be plenty of family fun from face painting for young nature lovers to whisky tasting with Famous Grouse for mums and dads. Learn how to look after the nature in your garden with hints and tips from the RSPB team and take home some freshly made bird pie to keep the birds in your garden well fed over the winter period. Admission is a suggested donation of £3.50 for non-members, £2.50 for RSPB members with a concession price for children of £2. Wildlife Explorers will enjoy free entry to the event. For more info contact Laura Thomson o028 9049 1547 or laura.thomson@rspb.org.uk
On a Mission for Success East Belfast Mission (EBM) had a successful evening at the Belfast Business Awards organised by Belfast City Council in partnership with Belfast City Centre Management which took place in the City Hall with 11 awards presented in recognition of the fine work of businesses across the city. Guest speaker was Enterprise Ambassador and former Apprentice Winner Tim Campbell. EBM shared the Best Social Economy Business Award with Ortus and were also highly commended in the Best Green Business Category. Full list of the winners and high commended businesses, on the Belfast Business Awards website www.belfastbusinessawards.com For more info on EBM visit their website www.ebm.org.uk 6 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Merry Christmas from the Lindores coffee house 19 Upper Newtownards Road
Opening Times Monday - Saturday 9am -5pm. Sunday 10.30am - 3pm Open late Thursday 5pm - 9.30pm December Deals Scone & Americano or tea - £2.50 Ulster fry - £4.50 / mini fry - £3.50 Afternoon tea - £9.95 per person
Tel: 028 9065 0338
Is Now opeN 19 UppeR NewTowNARDs RoAD
Bloom: News Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and Invest Northern Ireland’s Vicky Kell (left) are pictured with Patricia and Paul Getty, The Heatherlea Bakery, Bangor at a special ‘Celebration of Success’ event organised by Invest Northern Ireland in the Europa Hotel, Belfast, for winners of Great Taste Awards. The Heatherlea Bakery received two ‘one star’ gold awards in 2012. Now open at 69 Belmont Road. Tel 028 9047 3787.
Cregagh Methodist Church presents Show Tunes with a Bit of Christmas. Join the band of the NI Fire & Rescue Service for a special evening of show and movie classics with some Christmas warmers to get you in the Christmas spirit. Thursday 6th December at 7.30pm. £8 adults, £2 children under 16. 28-30 Cregagh Road
Medi-Cosmetic is Ireland’s best kept secret in all things anti-ageing, beauty and skincare.
A modern clinic tucked away in the heart of Bloomfield Avenue offers all the latest treatments usually only found on Harley Street in London. The Clinic Nurse Manager Denise Beck RGN, has over 20 years experience in the aesthetic industry and was one of the first to introduce injectable fillers to Northern Ireland. ‘Our Flagship Clinic in Jordanstown is where it all began and we felt that 2011 was the right time to bring our treatments to East Belfast.’ As the Clinic is one of few led by Medical Professionals, they can assure clients of the highest standard of care. Along with the latest in Anti-ageing treatments such as Botox, Fillers & Collagen Stimulation Therapy, Medi-Cosmetic also offer the latest beauty treatments with highly trained therapists such as Gel Nails, Waxing, Massage and much more. Visit the website for our extensive list of treatments. Their Star Treatment they recommend is Omnilux Revive Pure Red Light Facial treatment. This Facial is like no other, loved by celebrities such as Jessica Alba and Jennifer Lopez to keep their skin looking young and fresh. Special Offer in December at Medi-Cosmetic Belfast only £45. For more information on all their skincare and beauty treatments, call 028 9045 2025 medi-cosmetic.com Christmas Craft fair in Newtownards 14th December 6-8pm. It is being held in Captain Jack’s Playcentre on Glenford Road. Childrens play area and refreshments available. Over 20 stalls will be there on the night, so plenty of opportunity to do all your Christmas shopping. Stalls include, jewellery, handmade children’s keepsakes, christmas decorations, hampers for all ages, cupcakes, handbags, cosmetics. All proceeds are for Marie Curie Cancer Care Northern Ireland. Cafe Smart present The SMART Christmas Exhibition which will showcase an array of work from local artists. The mulled wine opening reception will take place on Monday 10th December from 7-9pm. The exhibition will then run until early January 2013. 56 Belmont Road. Tel 028 9047 1679. cafesmart.co.uk
8 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Bespoke Hairdressing would like to give some festive cheer with
A WELCOME GIFT TO ALL NEW CLIENTS
Book a Cut & Finish, or Colour, and receive a voucher for £10. Or book both in one visit and receive a voucher for £20 !! Its your choice... This Gift Voucher is only available to new clients. Sorry to our lovely existing clients but please ask about our Client Loyalty Programme.
To book or for more information. Please call on the Telephone Numbers below. or visit www.bespokehairdressing.com Find us on Facebook : Bespoke Hairdressing Aveda Salons Belfast 7 UNIVERSITY ROAD, BELFAST
9024 6664
67 BELMONT ROAD, BELFAST
9065 0505
Local Festive Fayre
We speak to local butcher Warwicks about their advice on the best way to cook the traditonal turkey. We also get the lowdown on the liquid side of things as Tom Bell from Grange Wine Merchants gives us his tips on the best wine to accompany the Christmas meal. Roast Turkey With Redcurrant Gravy 6kg turkey 200g unsalted butter, room temperature 1 large onion, peeled and quartered 1 lemon quartered 3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme 1 sprig rosemary For the gravy: 200ml red wine or port 600ml turkey or chicken stock 2 tbsp redcurrant jelly • If using frozen turkey, put it in a cool place for two hours per 500g to defrost and then refrigerate, until ready to cook. A 6kg turkey will take 24 hours to defrost. Remove the bird from the fridge three hours before putting in the oven, so it can lose some of the chill. Preheat the oven to 190 C/375 F/gas mark 5. • Place a large knob of butter, At Christmas time everyone plans their dinner well in advance, but do you spend enough time planning the perfect wine to accompany your dinner? Here are some suggestions from Tom Bell at Grange Wine Merchants in Holywood. Laroche CHABLIS Saint Martin 2012 £17.99 100% Chardonnay Cuvée Saint Martin is a blend of the best plots of Domaine Laroche in the Chablis appellation. All plots are located on Kimmeridgian soil with a west to northwest orientation. 10 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
the onion, lemon, thyme and rosemary in the cavity. Rub the skin of the turkey with the rest of the butter, then season generously. Tie the legs together with kitchen string to give the bird a neat shape. • Place the turkey breast -side down, in a roasting tin and put in oven for approximately 40 minutes per kilo. Baste every 30 minutes, after the first 40 minutes of cooking. • Around 40 minutes before the end of the cooking time, turn the turkey over to brown the breast, being careful not to tear the skin. Check if the bird is cooked by inserting a skewer into a thigh. When the juices run clear, with no hint of pink, it’s done. • Put the turkey on a warmed plate, cover loosely with foil and put it in a warm place to rest for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour. It will hold the heat well, so if you only have
a single oven, you can start cooking the roast vegetables once the turkey is out of the oven. Serve with cranberry sauce or bread sauce if required. • To make the gravy, pour off the fat from the roasting tin and then place the tin over a medium heat on the stove. Add the wine, stirring vigorously to make sure you scrape all the tasty brown bits off the bottom of the tin. Reduce to around six tablespoons of liquid, then gradually whisk in the stock until you have a smooth gravy. Simmer gently for five minutes. Strain then pour into a small pan. Stir in the redcurrant jelly and simmer for around three to five minutes. Taste and season, if necessary. Transfer to a warmed gravy boat or jug to serve.
Thanks to the diverse nuances of these sources, they bring richness and complexity to the final cuvée. This wine is pale gold in colour with aromas or ripe white fruit and spring blossoms. On the palate there is wonderful ripe fruit balanced by zesty acidity with a lingering fruity finish. This wine is perfect for smoked salmon and seafood cocktails. Domaine Daulny Sancerre Rouge 2009 £16.99 100% Pinot Noir Sancerre’s are normally associated with white wine; however in good vineyards and vintages Pinot Noir is also grown and
produced. Etienne Daulny produces small parcels of Pinot Noir in his Loire vineyards to very high and exacting standards. The result is a beautifully well balanced wine. Plum red in colour with soft black fruit and berry aromas. There is wonderful soft fruit on the palate with hints of mocha and soft spice with a good overall length. This wine can be served slightly chilled and is absolutely perfect with Roast Turkey and Cranberry Sauce.
Warwicks 24 Holywood Rd 028 9065 7086
Grange Wine Merchants 49 Bangor Road, Holywood 028 9039 7579
FairyDust Gift Emporium
Stocking the Green Company Organic Cosmetics and Skincare range Paraben free, for babies, children, teenagers, men & women. Helps combat: Psoriasis, excema & rosacea.
Treats by Sam
AIRBRUSH
20% OFF! WITH PRESENTATION OF THIS VOUCHER
• Airbrush
Unwind while you shop & indulge yourself with a little pampering!
• Natural Facelift • Indian Head Massage
REFLEXOLOGY
20% OFF!
• Specialising in Paraben free skincare for problematic skin eg psorisis, acne and rosacea
WITH PRESENTATION OF THIS VOUCHER
Unwind while you shop & indulge yourself with a little pampering!
Treats by Mandy • Reflexology • Foot pamper package • Pedicure • Manicure • Gel Nails • 3 week polish
415-417 Newtownards Road BT4 1AQ Tel: 028 9073 1141 www.fairydustemporium.webs.com
B ELL A
PIZZA
FREE MARGHERITA PIZZA OR DONER KEBAB
We have achieved a Hygiene Rating of 5 (Excellent). We have very high standards of food safety management and are fully compliant with food safety legislation. All our food is freshly prepared on a daily basis.
BUY ANY 14” PIZZA & GET ONE FREE !
WITH THIS COUPON Monday - Wednesday only. Not valid with any other offers. Only one per customer. Cheapest pizza free. Expires 31/12/12
WHEN YOU SPEND £12.00 On request, 1 per customer only. Not including any other offers. Available Mon-Thursday only. Terms & conditions apply.
90 655 900 74 Holywood Road, Belfast
www.niftynosh.com Opening Hours
Sun-Thurs 4pm-Midnight Fri-Sat 4pm-Late
DELIVERY SERVICE £1.30 ORDERS UNDER £5.00 EXTRA 30p Deliveries exceeding 2.7 miles price will increase by £1.00 Please leave a light on for our drivers
Make a Christmas Wreath Debora Robertson’s book Gifts from the Garden is an inspirational collection of projects using plants and produce that can be grown easily in your garden. Learn how to make preserves, liqueurs, biscuits, herbal teas, table decorations, body scrubs and more. Here are some cracking tips for a crafty Christmas. ‘Making your own wreath is guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit. It’s very simple to do and the results are impressive. I like to use highly scented things to decorate my wreath, such as lemons, cloves and cinnamon, which give a delicious waft of Christmas as you enter the house.’ For the wreath 1 flat-wire wreath, approx. diameter 30–40cm, available from florists, suppliers online or some garden centres Moss, available from garden centres or florists Florist’s wire, thick and fine gauges A selection of thin ribbon for tying bundles and wide ribbon for hanging the wreath To decorate A selection of: apples, berries, cinnamon sticks, cloves, fir branches (which can be off-cuts from your Christmas tree), eucalyptus, ivy, lemons and/or limes, oranges, pine cones, star anise Secateurs Needle and thread Glue gun, or some strong glue Staple gun or tacks First, make the dried orange or apple slices, if you are planning to use them. Slice the fruit very thinly and dry on wire racks in the oven on its lowest setting for several hours or overnight. To assemble the wreath, begin by covering the wire form generously with moss, then tie it securely using thick florist’s wire. Next, tie in sprigs of fir and/or eucalyptus so that the wreath is densely covered. Then wind ivy around the wreath, securing it at intervals with fine florist’s wire. You can use the dried apple and orange slices singly or glued together in stacks of three. Cut a length of fine florist’s wire approximately 20cm long and push it through the centre of the apple or orange slice/s, then push it back through about 1cm from the original hole – this will give you a loop of wire to tie the slice/s to the wreath. Cover the wire on the front of the slice/s by gluing on a star anise. 12 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Glue together bundles of cinnamon sticks and wind around a length of fine wire to attach them to the wreath. Cover the wire with ribbon and tie it into a bow. Stud the lemons or limes with cloves and push a length of thick wire through the centre of each, long enough to tie it to the wreath. Tie lengths of fine wire to the pine cones, berry sprigs and anything else you want to include. Lay it flat on a table and arrange the various elements around it until you have an arrangement you like, leaving space for the ribbon you’re going to use to attach it to the door. Tie in your decorations securely, hiding any pieces of wire beneath the fir and ivy. Attach a loop of ribbon at the centre-top of the wreath and sew it on securely, leaving enough of a ‘tail’ to attach it to the door. You can hide any stitches with a generous bow. Use staples or tacks to attach the length of ribbon to the top of the door.
Gifts from the Garden by Debora Robertson (Kyle Books, £16.99) Photography: Yuki Sugiura
The Christmas Shop
Christmas Gifts - Trees - Tableware - Decorations Ornaments - Lights - Garlands - Crackers
Everything you need on your doorstep to make this festive time perfect, visit The Christmas Shop. 11-13 Cregagh Road, Belfast BT6
CHRISTMAS AT WARWICKS Order your specially hand selected local farm produce for Christmas, all expertly chosen to ensure only the best quality for your table
Fresh Farm Turkeys Chunky Chickens Ducks and Geese Whiltshire Cured Hams Dry Aged Beef and Lamb All the staff at Warwicks Butchers would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and happy new year. We would also like to thank you for your loyal support and custom throughout the year.
WARWICKS
@warwickbutchers Family Butcher 24 Holywood Road Belfast BT4 1NT Tel: 028 9065 7086
Grow your business with Bloom www.bloommagazine.co.uk • @bloommag • Find us on Facebook
Issue 9: September 2012
bloom Magazine The very latest news direct from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
What’s going on in your own neighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.
www.bloommagazine.co.uk • @bloommag • Find us on Facebook
Issue 8: July/August 2012
bloom Magazine The very latest news direct from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
What’s going on in your own neighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.
Hazy Summer Days...
www.bloommagazine.co.uk • @bloommag • Find us on Facebook
Issue 10: October 2012
bloom Magazine The very latest news direct from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
What’s going on in your own neighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.
Autumn Sensation
www.bloommagazine.co.uk • @bloommag • Find us on Facebook
With an array of content including news, what’s on, schools, food, recipes, local legends and much more...
Issue 11: November 2012
bloom Magazine The very latest news direct from the community delivered to your letterbox for free every month.
Food and cookery ranging from easy peasy inspiration to recipes to local restaurant reviews.
What’s going on in your own neighbourhood, health, beauty, local legends and much more.
Get The Kettle On
Rachel Allen has the cake sorted in this months cookboook
Bloom is a FREE magazine that will appeal to a broad demographic meaning as and when it drops through the letterboxes of Belfast, it arrives directly with parents, children, male, female, young and old.
WIN!
Coming Home
The Legend Returns
Shop Local This Season
Whatever the weather East Belfast is in Bloom
You can win the new SD Bells book! Bloom Faves
Local Legend, Rising Star, Food Focus & much much more
Shop Local
For all advertising enquiries contact Angela: angela@bloommagazine.co.uk Tel: 07719 104862
A high quality, monthly publication that will ensure the recipient will hold on to the magazine to read over the course of the month and pick up on the products and services on offer.
HANWOOD IRONING SERVICES
Sewing ROOM
The
IRONING • WASHING DRY CLEANING Does not include large items
IRONING
YOUR COMPLETE SEWING SERVICE
• 17 items £9 • 34 items £18 • 65p per item • Hangers 6p
• Garment Alterations • Curtain Making Service • Roman Blinds • Bridal Alterations • Very Competitive Rates
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
9am-4pm 8am-7pm 8am-7pm 8am-7pm 9am-4pm 10am-4pm
Delivery/collection from home or work from £2.50
Unit 19 Hanwood Business Park.
028 9041 0297
Open Mon, Wed Fri: 9-6 Tues & Thurs: 9-7 Sat: 9-5 Unit 16, Hanwood Business Park, Old Dundonald Rd
Tel: 9048 9642 or Mob 077 0615 6331
N S E P AY O D N U
S
SEATS 50+
the coffee shop
NOW TAKING CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS!
ONLY £9.95 PER PERSON MENU
CHOOSE TWO COURSES
STARTER Soup of the Day • Prawn Cocktail Melon with Raspberry Coulis
WICH SAND ERS T PLAT BLE A IL AVA
MAIN COURSE Traditional Roast Turkey & Ham with Chipolatas & Seasonal Vegetables DESSERT Choice of Dessert
OPEN : Mon-Sat 8.30am - 4.30pm/Sun 9.30am-3pm Unit 1, Hanwood Business Park (next to Eastpoint Entertainment Complex) Old Dundonald Road, BT16 1DE Tel: 028 9048 4549 www.creamthecoffeeshop.com
Christmas Gifts Heres a run down on how you could do a whole of a lot of shopping this year just by taking a bus or a dander down the road or around the corner and picking up an amazing selection of pressies and all the while supporting local business. Its a win win! Protect your hair colour and prevent fading to keep the colour you love with this gift set from Bespoke Hairdressing. Travel size colour conserve shampoo 50 ml, colour conserve conditioner 50 ml and colour conserve daily colour protect 100 ml. Pre wrapped £25.50. 67 Belmont Road. Tel 028 9065 0505.
As beautiful on the outside as what its brewing on the inside, Cafe Smart’s cast iron teapots. Holds 600ml and comes with sieve. A must for any tea buff. £29.95. 56 Belmont Road. Tel 028 9047 1679 cafesmart.co.uk
Fairtrade jigsaws £9.99, Various themes available from Funky Living. Unit 5 Bloomfield Avenue. Tel 028 9045 4959 funky-living.co.uk
Eleanor’s Attic handbags -A range of quirky bags for every occasion, made by combining remnants with colourful contemporary designs to create beautiful bespoke pieces. Available from Silhouette priced from £39.90. 75 Belmont Road. Tel 028 9002 8742 silhouettefashionbelfast.co.uk
Steampunk cufflinks available from The Refound Building - showcasing local artists and designers. 7 Wellington Place. Tel 07811 342444 refoundonline.com 16 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Also available from The Refound Building, the excellent work of Former Bloom Rising Star Arbee Cards present their local cards for local people!
SALE NOW ON
50 Bloomfield Avenue Belfast, BT5 5AD Tel: 028 9045 7719 facebook/thewhitebicycle
www.toriswardrobe.com
Xmas Gifts A selection of winter warmers avilable from The White Bicycle. 50 Bloomfield Avenue. Tel 028 9045 7719 toriswardrobe.com
Hot Towel Shave gift vouchers available from Peter Olivers. They also have gift bags from both American Crew and Men:u that range in price from £15 to £22 but their content value is twice that amount. Great value gifts from around the corner. 27 Bloomfield Avenue. Tel 028 9058 9889 peterolivers.com
Chunky gold tone vintage curb chain with mirror glass pendants and skull charms by local designer Bohemian Vixen. £35 available at Bohemian Vixen on ASOS Marketplace and also St Georges Market every Sunday. Plus there will be a Bohemian Vixen stall at the extra Xmas markets in St Georges on 1719th December and also Xmas Eve. bohemianvixen.com
Thalgo Skincare Gift Box containing Collagen Cream, Resurfacing Cream and Collagen Concentrate Serum all for £65 from Medi Cosmetic. 58 Bloomfield Avenue Belfast. Tel 028 9045 2025 medi-cosmetic.com
18 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Finish your Christmas Dinner with our 2012 Great Taste Award Winning Christmas Pudding Traditional meets contemporary. Our range of fresh breads and cakes have won coveted national Great Taste Awards in various categories for five consecutive years. The key is allowing the great Irish classics; soda, potato, wheaten and Crusty bread to share shelf space with Spelt, Multiseed, Low GI and wholemeal bread and rolls .We offer something for all and our customers from the very young to the very not so young, love the diversity. Cupcakes, Fruit loaves, Wee Buns, Fresh Cream Eclairs, Lunch time treats, savoury pies and sausage rolls. Great food for you to take home and enjoy.
Call in and place your orders for easy collection at Christmas.
At Christmas we can spoil you with delicate sweet mince pies, Rich Christmas cake and our 2012 Great Taste Award winning Christmas pudding made to recipe handed down through our family for generations. We have a great range of foodie fare for gifts and can make you hampers to order.
94 Main Street Bangor 028 91453157 69 Belmont Road Belfast 028 90473787 www.theheatherlea.com
JOSEPH SCOTT Hairdressing
Everything is much simpler when you see it in Black & White, just like the message we want to portray in this feature on Joseph Scott Hairdressing. We could talk about our awards and our products and what we can do for your image but what we really want to talk about is you and the experience you can expect to receive each time you visit the salon. Our ethos is about building relationships and trust with each of our clients, allowing you to have the confidence in us to give you the style, the colour, the cut that suits you the individual and your lifestyle. All of this takes place in an environment where we are dedicated to making your time in the salon a time for relaxation. We want you to enjoy being pampered in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where you are the reason we come to work each day. We look forward to welcoming you to the salon, be it as an existing client or as a new client looking for a salon where you are treated as a person and not like a process. Likewise - the team at Joseph Scott Hairdressing is already well established bu there are always openings for new talent who share our beliefs. Our latest addition is Kieva Rainey who has some great introductory offers. Finally we would like to take this opportunity to wish all our clients and friends a very Merry Christmas and thank them for their custom and support. For further information or to make an appointment telephone 028 9064 0123 and discover the experience at Joseph Scott Hairdressing for yourself.
Joseph Scott Hairdressing, 36b Knockbreda Road, Belfast BT6 0JB
Designer brands on your doorstep
Unit 5 39-53 Bloomfield Ave. BT5 5AA
www.funky-living.co.uk
(Coming soon)
Find us on Facebook
Find us on Facebook
Elizabeth’s Home Bakery BUY ANY ADULT SUPPER OVER £4.95 & GET A KID’S SUPPER... FREE
!
Available all day Monday to Wednesday Terms & Conditions apply
15 Belmont Road, Belfast BT4 2AA.
Tel: 028 9065 9824
29 Belmont Rd. BT4 2AA Tel: 028 9065 4871
Need Some Christmas Beauty Ideas?
‘HO! HO! HO! With Christmas just around the corner here are some of our top beauty picks.’
Gifts for £30 & under Dermalogica Stress Relief Candle Trio £18.50 Light the way towards relaxation. Dermalogica Skin Kit £25 Maybe the spirit of the Christmas Available for all skin types. season will move you to share one with a friend! Teeth Whitening Kit £30 Youngblood Brow This teeth Artiste Kit whitening kit will This handy kit contains ensure your everything you need for teeth are perfectly groomed arches. snowy white over the festive season.
Health & Beauty
Gifts for £50 & under Everyday Maxi Kit - £48 Silkening Cleansing Milk & Hydrating Tonic.
Dermalogica Shave Kit £42.50 The perfect gift for him, guaranteeing a close shave. Perfect for puckering up under the mistletoe. Acvtive Moist with 2 Free Gifts! This am/pm skin care set helps smooth and balance skin through gentle exfoliation, lightweight oil free hydration and customize UVA/ UVB defence.
Gifts for £75 & under Tranquillity Bath Oil – £65.25 This is a unique oil based formula for bath and body. Immerse yourself in the scents of vanilla, rosewood and cedar and let your worries drift away.
Welcome to The Secret Day Spa beauty page. Keeping the good people of East Belfast looking gorgeous & feeling fantastic!
Mineral Basic Starter Kit £36 Whether you’ve used Youngblood before or are just getting to know us, this collection is the perfect start to achieving a flawless finish.
The Secret Day Spa, 30 Belmont Road, Belfast. Tel: 028 9067 1914. www.bloommagazine.co.uk 23
249 Castlereagh Road 028 90 450 281 Mon-Fri 9:30am-5:30pm Wed 9:30am-8pm Sat 10am-2pm www.clrbelfast.co.uk
FullyMicrosoft equipped workshop Certified •• Hardware & equipped Software diagnostics Fully workshop •• Full refurbishments • Data Recovery • • • • •
Console Repairs for Xbox 360, PS3, Wii Disc read errors Graphical problems Overheating iPhone, iPad, iPod Repairs Smashed screens Liquid damage Battery replacements
• • • •
• Full range of EPSON compatible ink • All full sets just £10! • DVD/CD Blank Discs in store JOIN US ON FACEBOOK.COM/CLRBELFAST
Discount Beds Belfast
100’s Of Quality Beds And Mattresses In Stock Ready For Free Local Delivery 8 Templemore Avenue Belfast BT5 4FP Tel: 028 9045 3723 www.discountbedsbelfast.co.uk
The Wagamama Cookbook
Negima Yakitori
This book shows you just how easy it is to enjoy the Wagamama experience at home. Many favourites from the menu are featured as well as newly created dishes from appetisers and salads to hearty noodle soups and stir fries plus a range of exotic juices and desserts. It also includes a free 3o minute DVD which shows cooking techniques. Available now. £15.99.
heat for 1-2 minutes or until completely hot and almost smoking and add the vegetable oil. Add the chicken and red www.wagamama.com and green peppers and stir fry for 2 minutes. Add the noodles and vegetables to the work and stir fry quickly for 3 minutes Ingredients until warmed through. Add the eggs and continue t stir fry for 10g (4oz) soba noodles a further minute or until the 2 tablespoons yaki soba sauce eggs are just cooked. Serve with 1 small onion, peeled and cut the pickled ginger, shallots and into half-moon slices 4 spring onions, trimmed and cut sesame seeds. into 2.5cm lengths large handful of bean sprouts 15 small cooked peeled prawns Ingredients 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 boneless, skinless chicken 275 (10oz) boneless, skinless breast, cut into strips chicken thigh meat ½ red pepper, trimmed, 12 spring onions deseeded and cubed Salt and white pepper ½ green pepper, trimmed, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil deseeded and cubed 4 tablespoons yakitori sauce 2 eggs, beaten 6 bamboo soaked in cold water To serve for 2 hours 25g(1oz) pickled ginger
Yaki Soba
Negima Yakitori
1 tablespoon dried shallots ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
Cut the chicken into 2.5cm (1in) cubes. Trim the green end root of the spring onion and cut into 2.5cm (1in) chunks from the Cook the noodles in a large pan of boiling water for 2-3 minutes root up. Thread the chicken and spring onion pieces alternately until just tender. Drain and refresh under cold running water. onto the skewers (3 pieces of chicken, 2 pieces of spring onion Put the yaki soba sauce, the onion, spring onion, bean sprout on each). Season. and prawns in a large bowl and Heat a heavy-bottomed frying mix the noodles. pan or griddle over medium Heat a work over a medium 26 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
heat for 1-2 minutes until hot and almost smoking and add the oil. Cook the skewers, turning frequently, for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Drain on kitchen paper, brush with the yakitori sauce. Serve immediately.
Chicken Ramen Ingredients boneless, skinless chicken breasts Vegetable oil, for oiling Salt and white pepper 250g(9oz)ramen noodles 1 litre chicken or veg stock 2 pak choi, trimmed and roughly chopped(or 2 handfuls of spinach leaves) 12 pieces menma (canned bamboo shoots) drained 4 spring onions, trimmed, sliced Preheat the grill or griddle pan. Lightly oil and season the chicken breasts and grill for 4 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Allow to rest for 5 minutes, slice on the diagonal and set aside. Cook the noodles in large pan of boiling water for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Drain, refresh under cold running water and divide between 2 bowls. Heat the noodles and ladle in the stock. Top with the sliced menma and spring onions.
Ebi Katsu
Chicken Ramen
Cha Han
Ingredients 1 heaped tablespoon flour, seasoned 1 egg, beaten 25g(1oz) panko breadcrumbs 10 raw tiger prawns, peeled, deveined, tail left on 4 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons ebi katsu sauce Put the flour, beaten egg and breadcrumbs into three separate bowls. Dip each prawn first in the flour, then the egg and finally the crumbs. Put on a clean plate lined with kitchen paper and press the crumbs onto the prawns to stop them from falling off, chill until ready to use.
Ebi Katsu
Heat a heavy-bottomed frying pan over a medium heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot and almost smoking and add the vegetable oil. Shallow fry the prawns in 2 batches, until golden on both sides. Arrange on a plate with a small bowl of the ebi katsu sauce and lime halves.
Cha Han Ingredients 200g (7oz) boneless, skinless chicken thigh meat 1 tablespoon yakitori 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 8 cooked, peeled prawns 2 tbsp canned sweet corn 2 tbsp mangetout, finely sliced 4 button mushrooms sliced 2 spring onions cut into 2.5cm 2 eggs, beaten 75g (3oz) cooked Thai fragrant rice Salt 2 tablespoons light soy sauce Miso soup and pickles, to serve Combine the chicken and the yakitori sauce in a bowl. Work
gently with your fingers for a few minutes, turning the meat in the sauce. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (1 hour is even better). Remove the chicken, reserving the marinade, and cut the meat on the diagonal into thin slices. Heat a wok over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until almost smoking and add the vegetable oil. Add prawns, sweet corn, mangetout, mushrooms, spring onions along with the chicken and stir fry over a medium heat for about 5 minutes until the vegetables just start to wilt and the chicken is cooked. Add the egg and continue to stir fry until scrambled.
Add the rice. Season with salt and soy sauce and stir fry until everything is mixed evenly and the rice heated through. Divide between 2 bowls and serve with miso soup and pickles.
WIN A COPY OF WAGAMAMA!
You can win a copy of The Wagamama Cookbook. Simply answer this question: How long is the DVD that accompanies the book? Send your answers along with your name and contact number to info@bloommagazine.co.uk or post to Bloom Magazine, 308 Albertbridge Road, Belfast, BT5 4GX. Closes 31/12/12 www.bloommagazine.co.uk 27
C&L LANDSCAPES
FULL LANDSCAPING SERVICE
WE SPECIALISE IN: FENCING • NEW LAWNS WOODEN DECKING GENERAL GARDENING MAINTENANCE
TEL: 028 9045 2019 MOB: 07802 569513
Electrical Contractor & Oil Service Engineer • All types of electrical works undertaken • Oil fired boilers serviced & repaired • Fast, reliable & professional service • Emergency breakdown service available REWIRES • FIRE ALARMS • INTRUDER ALARMS • EMERGENCY LIGHTING • COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL • INSPECTION AND TESTING OUTDOOR & DECORATIVE LIGHTING
All enquiries welcome - Competitive prices
CLASSIC D E C O R AT O R S
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR
Member of Constructiononline • Over 20 years experience •
For a Free Estimate
Call 07711 808422 028 9032 2189
WINDOW CLEANING • ONE OFF CLEANS • 4, 8 or 12 WEKLY • FRAMES & SILLS INCLUDED TDH CONTRACTS Cleaning Services
Call Thomas on 07934 825984
Contact Alistair 079 0222 0492 awjthompson@hotmail.com
BURNS HEATING & PLUMBING
For your free quotation: Reliable Quality Service • Central Heating Installation & Repair • Natural Gas Installation & Repair ALL ASPECTS OF DOMESTIC PLUMBING
BEFORE
FULL BATHROOM DESIGN SERVICE TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS
24 Hour Emergency Call Out Service
Tel: 028 9070 2778 Mob: 07718 760499 26 Bapaume Ave, Belfast BT6 9JE
Are you a tradesman who would like to promote your business in East Belfast?
Do it here from £35 PHONE 07719 104862
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
PLUMBING MAINTENENCE •Outside taps •Supply & fit new taps •Electric showers •Burst pipes •Toilets/cisterns BATHROOM REFURBISHMENT •Remove/discard old suite & tiles •All pipework alterations •Reposition new bathroom suite HEATING SERVICES •Complete system powerflush •Radiators replaced/serviced/ repaired •Thermostatic radiator valves/ repairs/supplies BOILERS - OIL - GAS •Boiler service - parts •Replace oil/gas boilers •Oil tank relocation •Boiler house reposition
111 Mealough Road, Carryduff, BT8 8LT Tel: 028 9081 7899 E: lisa@rjspatterson.com www.rjspatterson.com
HS Studio Hair
Tanning
Nails
The HS Studio is situated in a unique location in East Belfast with a comprehensive selection of treatments and products including Label M, L’Oreal, Organic Colouring, Fantasy Tan and Lauren’s Way.
Tel: 07854 431830
4 Kincora Mews, Belfast BT4 3NG www.hsstudio-belfast.co.uk Appointments Tuesday - Saturday, afternoons & evenings
Whats On
Plan your time with our handy guide...
TODDLER GROUPS
Mondays Sydenham Parent & Toddler
Bloomfield Avenue Tel: 028 9065 2321 www.stdonards.com £1 for adults. Tea/coffee/juice biscuits and homemade scone.
Funded places available for Sep 2013 for children in final pre-school year. Info session for parents 6th Dec 1-2pm or by appointment Tel 028 9045 7564.
Strandtown Baptist Tots
Knock Parent & Toddler Group
10-11.30 Cregagh Park, BT6 9LF 028 9079 2793.
Wednesdays
Fridays
Wandsworth Mums & Chums
Busy Bees
Tots ‘R’ Us
smallTALK @ orangefield
St Columba’s Mums & Tots
Mon 10-11.30 £1 per family Tea/coffee/juice/toast. Inverary CC BT4 1RN Tel: 028 9047 1456
St Finnians
10-11.45am Wandsworth Community 26a Belmont Church Rd BT4 3FF £1 per family.
Calvary Baptist Mums & Toddlers.
10.30-12.00am. £1 per family. 100 Dee Street, BT4 028 9073 2331
Tuesdays Albertbridge Congregational
10.30-12.15 Woodstock Link Donation £1
CFC Mops & Tots
9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays from 11/9/12)
CFC Mops
9.30-11am (term time - alternate Tuesdays from 18/9/12) 10 Belmont Rd, BT4 2AN Tel: 028 9067 1838 www.thisiscfc.com
Mersey Street Presb. Parents & Toddlers
10.15- 11.45am (term time) Strandtown Baptist Church, 1 Clonallon Court Belmont Road, BT4 2AB Tel: 028 9080 8380 £1 per adult
10 -11:30am Knock Methodist Church, Knock Road, BT5 6JA Tel: 07867 551366 jackie.blair@karrington.net
9.45-11.45 (term time) St Columba’s Parish Church 29 Kings Road BT5 6JG Tel: 028 9065 1412
Willowfield Mother and Toddler Group
Mondays
10-12pm Woodstock Road, BT6 8PR Tel: 028 9045 7654 office@willowfieldchurch.co.uk
Thursdays Bloomfield Methodist Church 10-11.30am £1 per family Grand Parade
Tel: 028 9065 8946.
St Donards Church
Flutterbies Playgroup
30 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
10.30am House of Worship 127a Orby Drive, BT5 6BB Tel: 07791 776307/07980 984506 www.houseofworshipireland.com
10-11.45am O’field Church & Community, 464 Castlereagh Road BT5 Tel: 07745 076911 shajam38@yahoo.co.uk www.orangefield.org.uk
10-11.45am term time Mersey St Pres BT1 1EX Tel: 028 90 657025 aburcombe@gmail.com www.merseystreet.org.uk £1 donation 10am-12
10-11.45am Knock Presbyterian Church 53 Kings Road, BT5 6JH Tel: Pamela 07921 067927 or Gillian 07803 117619. www.knockpresbyterian.co.uk
Cregagh Mums & Tots
10-12pm Cregagh Community Centre Mount Merrion Avenue Tel: 028 9040 1444
28-30 Cregagh Rd
EVENTS ETC Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668 Zumba 6-7pm Aerobics 7-8pm Yoga 8.15-9.30pm
Tuesdays Belmont Tower www.belmont-tower.co.uk
Core fitness 9.30am-10.30am Childrens dance classes 4-7pm Zumba Classes 6-7.15pm Pregnancy Yoga 7.30-8.30pm
Wandsworth Community
Kids Irish dancing 4-6.30pm, Aerobics 7.15-8.15pm Tai Chi 8.15-9.30pm
Plan your time with our handy guide...
Whats On
Wednesdays
Thursdays
Bloomfield Methodist Church
Belmont Tower www.belmont-tower.co.uk
12.30 Over 50’s Lunch Club 3 courses for £3. Grand Parade Tel: 028 9065 8946.
Belmont Tower www.belmont-tower.co.uk
Baby massage 10am-1pm Yoga with Eleanor 5.45-7.45pm 39th Old Boys 7-9pm
McArthur Nursery
Open day on 12th Dec 2-4pm Tel: 028 9045 1965
Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668
Sewing Group 10am-12noon Flower Arranging 1.30-3.30pm, Yoga 7-8.30pm
Art classes 10am-1pm Baby Sensory Classes 7-13 mths Thurs 10-11am 0-7 mths Thurs 11.30-12.30 Yoga with Sharon 6-8pm E Belfast Historical Society 13th Dec 7.30pm Xmas entertainment.
Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668
LA Dance (kids Hip Hop) 5-6pm Aerobics 7-8pm Core Combat 8.30-10pm
Fridays Belmont Tower www.belmont-tower.co.uk
Belcanto School of Singing 10-1pm
Wandsworth Community
Busybees musictime for babies 9.45am-10.45am £3.95 per family. Computers for beginners 10am12 and 1-3pm, Childrens Ju Jitsu 7-8pm Boxing 8.30-9.30pm
Shiloh Hall 07725 914458
76 The Mount, BT5 4ND Coffee Morning 10:30-12 noon
Saturdays Cregagh Community Centre
Musical Bumps. Music for babies and toddlers. www.muscialbumps.com
Wandsworth Community 028 9065 1668
Jump Jiggle & Jive 9.30-12.30, Childrens Art Class 10am-11am & Ignite teens dance 1.30-4.30pm
No.36
Fresh, Local, Homecooked Nosh Home cooking at its best using fresh local ingredients. Daily specials on breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Festive food, sweet treats & drinks available.
Now taking orders for home baked Christmas hampers 36 Belmont Road, Belfast, BT4 2AN Tel: 028 9065 7476 no.36belmontroad@hotmail.co.uk
32 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
MISTY WINDOWS?
All the staff at Dial a Dog Wash would like to wish their customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! The heated mobile parlour that comes to your home - No Hassle - No Stress
•Single & Double Glazing Repairs •Window & Door Maintenance •Replacement Window Frames & Doors •Glass & Mirrors Cut to Order Est Handles, Hinges & Locks abli
Call Us Now!
197
she
6
d
02890 486338/07788 172 748
E: info@roymcnaughtglazing.com www.roymcnaughtglazing.com Unit 7, Hanwood Business Park, Old Dundonald Road Dundonald, Belfast, BT16 1DE
We take care of all your dogs grooming needs in one of our beautiful customised mobile parlours. We offer everything your special loved one could need!
• Hydro-bathing • Shampoo & Condition • Clipping • Deodorising • Grooming Our Promise: We promise to take care of your pet whilst it is in our care and kindness will always be shown towards your dog! Call Ruth today: 028 9079 0459 or 07503 178082. www.dialadogwash.com
Better Light
the energy saver
36-42 Castlereagh Road Belfast BT5 5FP Tel: 028 9046 0605 Exciting new lighting showroom opens in Belfast, Specialist supplier of Decorative lighting, Commercial Lighting and LED Lighting
End of Year Sale
All DISPLAY ITEMS MUST GO UP TO 50% OFF Call in anytime for free advice on all your lighting requirement Over thirty expertise in the lighting world
F: 028 9095 0827
T: 0788 560 7976
Yo GU gr ur AR ea d A t o og NT r i sm EE ts e D FR llin EE g !
Condensation building up inside?
Food Focus
Far Left: David & Sarah Left: Seafood dish. Below: Crubeens
Classic, Honest, Bistro Food David and Sarah Adams very nearly left Northern Ireland with plans to start a new life 10,000 miles away. Fate dictated that wasn’t to happen, but as a result, East Belfast has one of the finest places to eat in the form of Bistro Este. ‘My history with food goes back to when I was in school,’ says chef David who runs Bistro Este with wife Sarah. ‘I was working in restaurants in the evenings from when I was 14. My dad was a chef too. It grew from there and I worked in London for four years including The Odettes, then The Cotswalds and came back to NI before going out to work in Spain. I stayed for 10 years, met Sarah, got married and had kids while we ran our own business there. When I first came back I took on the job of head chef at the fine dining restaurant in the HQ of Ulster Bank. After that we were going to emigrate to Australia and were halfway through organising it all when the Australian government stopped any more chefs coming into the country due to changes in immigration policy.’ Sarah says they continued with their goal of working on their own project despite this initial setback. ‘After Australia fell through, David went to look at a 17th century pub in Shropshire, where I’m from originally. It was beautiful but needed so much work. The weekend he was away I spotted the premises on the Newtownards Road. We fell in love with it and had the keys in a week! It just felt right, it was a manageable size and we knew this area well. It all just clicked into place. It was mid recession, people thought we were mad, but we were off and running.’ Bistro Este epitomises the locally sourced philosophy; meat from a butcher around the corner, veg from the Ravenhill Road, fish from Ewings on the Shankill Road, bread from the bakery at the bottom of the street, eggs from Carrowdore and butter hand churned in Dromara. It’s open 6 days a week for breakfast lunch and dinner. On Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings Este is a BYO restaurant and with no corkage, so many people come and avail of the £17.95 for two courses and treat themselves to a nice bottle. ‘The no corkage, that’s very important to us. We have always said we would never charge corkage. The Thursdays are growing now too. We have plans for that night in the New Year.’ The couple are constantly reinventing what they offer but always with seasonality in mind. Recent specials were linguine of Strangford Lough lobster or rose veal. Some favourites are mainstays, as David explains. ‘Our signature dish is the daube of beef which is shin marinated for a couple of days in red wine and aromatics then slow braised for 12 hours. I took it off the menu for a while and I got complaints!’ Lough Neagh eel is actually very popular. We also do crubeens which are slow braised pigs trotters stripped down to make our own sausage which is then deep fried to create a crispy curst. It’s classic, good, honest bistro food. We’re always sourcing new things, I’ve just met a contact who shops in a food market in Paris and is able to deliver next day into Ireland. That’s going to give us some amazing options for our New Years menu. We don’t mess about and pretend were something were not. We’re currently ranked first out of 380 restaurants in Belfast on Trip Advisor and I think we surprise people. It’s fulfilling because we put so much into it, to have such great feedback means a lot.’
54 Upper Newtownards Road. Tel 028 9047 3670 bistroeste.co.uk 34 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Attic Hair
149a Holywood Road (Above Boys to Men Barber) Belfast
Nicky Nutt 07582 977496 Gael Harris 07530 638640 A personal hairdressing service in an intimate environment. By appointment only.
Come Visit us at our NEW Clinic Specialist Anti-Ageing Skincare Laser & Beauty Clinic
BOOK NOW (028) 9045 2025
Extensive Range of Non Surgical Treatments
Party Perfect Wrinkle Removal from ........... £180 Professional Laser Teeth Whitening................................. £175 Collagen Stimulation Therapy from........................... £250 Registered Clinic
NI’s Leading Skincare Clinic
Festive Glow Ageing is Optional Exclusive Red Light Anti Ageing Treatment Limited Offer Now £45 Also Available Online The next generation of skin care
Perfect Christmas Gift Ideas
SPECIAL OFFER Microdermabrasion Limited Offer
Was £60 Now £29 Also Available Online
Gift Vouchers Available
Full range of skincare & beauty treatments available. Visit our website for more details www.medi-cosmetic.com
58 Bloomfield Ave, Belfast T. (028) 9045 2025 | 683a Shore Road, Jordanstown, BT37 0ST T. (028) 9086 1186
Rising Stars
String Fellows Speak to anyone and you won’t come across many who don’t have some sort of emotional connection to music. For some it’s on a purely listening basis, but for others who become inspired to play, Vincent Gilbert and Neil Kearney are two music aficionados you might need a word with.
V
incent and Neil’s knowledge of the guitar makes them the first port of call for those wishing to learn this beautiful instrument. So where did the partnership begin? ‘Neil and I started playing together in pubs and clubs many years ago,’ says Vincent. ‘Neil used to own The Guitar Emporium in Belfast and he was looking for a smaller place in Holywood which together we thought would be an ideal spot. That was three years ago and we’ve been here ever since.’ Whether you’re a beginner, professional, young, old or just curious, a visit to the shop is an eye opening experience. From vintage classics to locally produced handmade masterpieces, the diverse range of instruments is an inspiration in itself. ‘Most are of a high quality and people come in, have a coffee and a chat about what we have before making their decision. We have some very knowledgable people and also many beginners coming in, it’s a good mix. We do sell some very special guitars like The Lowden’s and also a range of vintage guitars. The electric guitar is around 60 years old now so they are becoming rare and collectable. You could be sitting here on a Monday and the next thing someone walks in with a 1965 Stratocaster! George Lowden is a legend in the business, he became interested in building guitars at the age of ten in 1961 and later began professionally in 1973 in High Street Bangor. He’s based in Downpatrick now and his guitars go worldwide, there’s a six month waiting list to get one. We’re the only stockist in Northern Ireland. We get people in from all over the country and we ship guitars too, most recently to the Isle of Wight, Holland, Spain, all over really.’ Vincent and Neil also run gigs in the shop which can seat up to 40 people. Many are by private invite and they’ve had the likes of Paul Brady, Foy Vance, Gareth Dunlop, Brian Houston to name a few. ‘If they’re here doing something they call in or we give them a call to do a gig. We have videos of most of them on the website.’ On top of this they also offer lessons for all skill levels on the premises and are beginning to also offer more of an insight into all areas of playing like setting up for playing live gigs. ‘It’s fundamental to make sure you sound good. So many people come in here and play, some of the kids are incredible. Some of them have learnt in a year what took me 30 years! But if they want to take it to the next level, we can teach them the technical side of things.’ Vincent and Neil play regularly in the likes of The Dirty Duck in Holywood and The Metro in Belfast so live and breathe guitars 7 days a week and are clearly passionate about what they do. ‘We have guitars here for under £100 and some running into thousands, but we are very particualr about guitars we stock, even our cheapest are very playable, that why we brought them in. After that people come in again as they improve and move up the scale of quality, we have an ongoing relationship with each client that you’ll never get on the internet.’ 112 High Street, Holywood - Tel: 02890 424245 theguitarrooms.com 36 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
FIVE STAR REASON TO SELL YOUR HOME WITH JOHN MINNIS... Everyone knows that selling your home can be one of the most stressful events of your life - we JOHN MINNIS ESTATE AGENTS recognise this and have partnered with The Merchant Hotel, to ensure that the whole experience becomes a little bit more relaxing. Worries about solicitor’s fees, surveys and getting stuck in a ‘chain’ will wash away with the best pampering possible…
JOHN MINNIS strive to ensure that the house selling (and buying!) process is a stress-free as possible for everyone involved.
Package includes: • Half-day’s indulgent package at The Merchant Hotel, Belfast • Access to the exclusive hydrotherapy area • Relaxing facial • Tranquil body treatment • Tasty lunch.
The sumptuous voucher will provide a well-deserved treat once the transaction has completed and keys have been exchanged. To speak to us about selling your home contact: Belfast Branch: 028 9065 3333 Holywood / North Down Branch: 028 9042 8888 Bangor / Ards Peninsula Branch: 028 9188 8881
johnminnis.co.uk Ts & Cs: This partnership will run from 18th October 2012 until 18th April 2012 any client registering their property to our books and completing their transaction within this period will be presented with this Merchant Spa Experience voucher on settlement of accounts. No cash alternative. No home completed after the outlined dates will be included in the offer.
Local Legend
The History Man
We meet local historian Aidan Campbell who is three quarters of the way through documenting the history of East Belfast in his series of books raising funds for Marie Curie. Aidan is originally from Woodvale in North Belfast and came to live in East Belfast around 20 years ago. His first foray into history research came when he was a student in 1977, as he explains. ‘For my thesis I completed ‘The Giants Causeway Tram’ which was a business history 1883-1949. I investigated how it came about and why it came to an end. That was my first piece of history and research along those lines.’ Following this he worked for international soft drink brands, managing sales nationwide which led to a lot of travelling. He then worked for himself for 15 years as a management consultant. Aidan had to then retire through ill health due to being diagnosed with a brain tumour four years ago. ‘It damaged my balance centre, I had to learn how to walk again and couldn’t eat or swallow solid foods and my memory was affected. They were tough times and I didn’t think I was going to make it but I came out the other side and I have got back on track. I get tired easily and have to pace myself but I put all my business skills to good use now to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care where I have been a volunteer for 12 years after seeing how they cared for a friend of mine a while back.’ Aidan made tea and washed the dishes at Marie Curie Hospice for eight years. While there, colleagues were discussing how it would be the 40th anniversary of the Marie Curie Hospice at Kensington Road in 2005. The manager said it would be really nice to get a couple of pages of history as to how the Marie Curie Hospice came about for inclusion on the website. ‘With my research experience I took on the task of working on it. Then I started to meet people, discovering fantastic photographs. Suddenly the two pages turned into a manuscript so someone suggested writing a book to raise funds. Only thing was I didn’t have a clue how to write a book! After more research I realised I needed to self publish to get it out there. I also managed to secure two very kind sponsors who covered the printing costs.’ The book, called ‘Beaconsfield’ after the name of the grand house that used to stand on the site, sold well. Aidan then started giving talks around East Belfast and word spread. Soon people were coming to him with material and photographs which led to the second book entitled ‘Knock’. A series followed including Cherryvalley, Gilnahirk, Castlereagh, Cregagh and most recently launched Stormont which coincides with the 80th anniversary of Parliament Buildings. The content in each and every book will take any East Belfast resident’s breath away. The archive material and comprehensive information is a wonderful insight into the roots of our community and the series has been a phenomenal success raising almost £90,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care. ‘Now that the books are a success, it’s lovely because people come up when my wife Christine and I are out shopping and ask if I’m the man that writes the local history books and tell us they might have something for the books. I’ve done 175 illustrated talks to date and the readership is getting bigger. I was speaking to a lady once who provided me with some interesting material for a book and commented ‘I never really thought our lives were interesting back then, until I saw it in your book.’ So sometimes people just need a different perspective on things and when the story is told, they see it differently.’
Aidan continues to be a volunteer at Marie Curie and can be contacted at the Hospice. If you have old photographs or information, contact Aidan and you too can be part of history. All the books are available at Hillmount Nursery Centre or from the Hospice, Kensington Road, Belfast. 38 www.bloommagazine.co.uk
Peter Oliver Hairdressing
223 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast BT4 3JF t: 028 9067 1058 e: peter@peterolivers.com www.peterolivers.com Open: Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri: 09.30-17.00 Thu 09.30-20.30 Sat .8.30-16.00 Peter Oliver is pleased to welcome new stylist Alyson Hamill to the team at Ballyhackamore. Alyson is a very creative stylist who has been trained to a high level with Toni & Guy.