What's Black, White & Offers Kickass Gelato? | Mad Penguin Aberdeen

Who is a penguin's favourite family member?

Aunt Artica!

No we're not talking bad wrapper jokes, chocolate biscuits or even penguins themselves (shocking right?), today we're talking about a brand new business taking the sweet scene in the Granite City by storm and really stepping up the game where frozen desserts are concerned, Mad Penguin!

I had the pleasure of being invited along to Mad Penguin the day after opening to sample their gelato range in store, meet the owner, Mike, and hear a bit more about the brains behind Mad Penguin. And after having a paroose of their Facebook page, seeing just some of the delicious flavours they offer, to say I was excited would be a gross understatement.

We visited the store on a cold, rather wintery evening, but I wasn't going to let a little cool air and wind and rain and you know the general demeanor of Scotland in winter keep me from my cool, refreshing dessert!

When we entered we were greeted by the cheeriest staff members and perhaps the biggest selection of gelato flavours I've ever seen in my life! A far cry from the run of the mill flavours we're used to in the 'Deen, here you'll find no Mars bar ice creams, Irn Bru icicles or indeed Mr Whippys in sight, instead what you'll find is far more sophisticated, far more exciting and FAR more flavorsome (and dare I say healthy?!)

Made from real, natural ingredients, sourced as fresh and locally as possible, Mad Penguin staff can not only tell you exactly what's in each and every gelato in store but perhaps more impressively, can cater to any and all audiences in search of a sweet fix. From a soy range for the lactose intolerant to a sugar free range for diabetics, suffice to say Mad Penguin are changing the lives of many one gelato at a time!

Mad Penguin's Soy, Sugar Free and Lactose Free range!

After sampling what I can only call a ridiculous amount of gelato I secured a few firm flavour faves, namely the Pear and Star Anise, Watermelon, Baileys, and finally the Orange, Lemon and Juniper Berry - these are just some of my personal favourites - if these however aren't for you I guarantee they'll have something more to your taste, and if not? Don't fret as the flavours change as much as owner Mike changes his mind and get his mad scientist experimenting hat on!

It was such a pleasure speaking to Mike after our tour of their premises, it has certainly been a labour of love and has been a long time coming. Having studied the art of gelato in Italy for a number of years Mike wanted to bring an authentic Italian experience to his business and of course cater to the masses without excluding anybody - which he has certainly mastered. Mike and his staff are so friendly, so accommodating and so passionate about what they do it just makes me beam having them as part of the independent business scene in Aberdeen - particularly when what they're selling is so damn tasty! In the future Mad Penguin are planning to cater for breakfast audiences too in the form of fresh yoghurts, granola and all sorts and they already have kick ass coffee connoisseur, Paul covering your caffeine bases (Rose flavoured latte guys..... and that's all I'll say)

If you're up the Deen way please I implore you, take a visit to Mad Penguin, you certainly won't regret it but I can't promise you won't leave without a new addiction!

You can find Mad Penguin in the Netherkirkgate area of Aberdeen and of course on Facebook and Instagram if you fancy a nosy!

And of course you can find me lurking undoubtedly inside Mad Penguin but if you're tastes are more digitally based then you can find me on Twitter, Instagram and more from the blog on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, why did the Mad Penguin cross the road?

H.Elizabeth x

Eat Local, Eat Filthy | Filthy Gorgeous Aberdeen

You know those mad food combinations you often dream about, you know the ones, cookies with crisps, fries in chocolate milkshake (this apparently is a thing!) deep fried delights and cheese on pretty much everything?  Those combinations you think, no that's mad I'll just settle for a plain chips and burger? Well dash it all to hell, in Filthy Gorgeous nothing is off limits and I for one am thankful, hungry and admittedly a little terrified of what this new Aberdeen eatery may do to my waistline. But on this day, this day of the #FGbloggerbrunch I didn't give two hoots.

Filthy Gorgeous comes from the (probably filthy) mind of Darren Campbell who, having spent much of his working life in various restaurants and all walks of the foodie scene, saw a gap in the market and decided to fill it with his very own Filthy Gorgeous. Not to be mistaken with popular dive burger joints, Filthy Gorgeous has a neatly presented distinctly indie decor complete with a sparkling chandelier and rounded off with a very modern photo booth (you know in case you want a before and after photograph of your culinary choices) and was a joy to sit in with my fellow bloggers for the afternoon.

The menu however, is quite another story. Distinctly filthy food, burgers and hot dogs with cereals, maple syrup and cheese galore and crazy culinary creations such as fries topped with marshmallows (correct fries TOPPED with marshmallows) sugared bacon milkshakes and even dead unicorn sundaes (we'll get to that later) of course I couldn't wait to give all of these a go, but alas my stomach cannot contain so much food so some tough decisions had to be made, but here are were my choices for that particular afternoon;

Main Event; I Dream of Weenie, a frostie crusted Chicago style smoked beef frank, cheese fondue with maple onions

Sides; Sweet Potato Fries with marshmallow & bacon shrapnel

Dessert; Dead Unicorn Sundae, jack and chocolate ice cream, a scoop of bitter cherry sorbet, Persian fairy floss, marshmallow, magic sprinkles and a sugar cone.

 

Unfortunately being the ninny I am and being altogether too excited for the food I didn't notice their milkshakes on offer so I had to sit through my meal staring jealously at the other girls who weren't too impatient to order one. Luckily I managed to get a great shot of Sarah's (blogs vlogs etc) Moopocalypse Cow milkshake which boasts chocolate fudge milk and chocolate ice cream topped with crumbled brownies (below)

As far as burger joints go, usually I'll roll my eyes and go 'ugh not another one'  but Filthy Gorgeous is unlike any burger joint I've visited thus far, unafraid of delving into the unusual, unabashedly filthy and what can I say they're simply a gorgeous new eatery all round and well worth a visit if you're up the Granite City way!

You can find Filthy Gorgeous on the booming Netherkirkgate in Aberdeen's city centre.

And of course you can find me and my very own Filthy Gorgeous self on the usual socials, Twitter,  Instagram and Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, eat filthy, eat gorgeous, eat mallow fries!

H.Elizabeth x

BBC Good Food Show Scotland | Granite City Girl Giveaway

Hello everyone, as some of you know last year my friend and I attended the BBC Good Food Show Scotland in Glasgow and had a blast (and admittedly far too much to eat and drink!) Between the shopping stalls, pop up restaurants, live demonstrations, cocktails, abundance of samples, interviews and book signings there is something for everyone's tastes!

In celebration of it's return to Scotland in November I have teamed up with the Good Food Show again this year to offer 5 lucky foodies a Sunday ticket granting you access to all of the culinary delights this years show has to offer.

All you have to do is FOLLOW Granite City Girl on Twitter and Instagram then COMMENT your fave foodie pleasure below and winners will be announced October 28th right here on the blog!

Until next time folks, feeling those foodie vibes!

H.Elizabeth x

Dining in the 'Deen | Abzmeet and the Adelphi Kitchen

I've always heard rave reviews about the Adelphi Kitchen but I've never braved a visit myself. I suppose in my head I had conjured up images of teeny tiny, posh portions and a vast array of fish that, as a hardcore advocate of battered cod from the local chippy, I would never dare touch. In fact it wasn't until an invitation landed in my inbox to sample the Adelphi Kitchen's menu that my interest was peaked and so it was that one rather miserable looking Sunday afternoon myself along with a fair few familiar faces from the Abzmeet gang headed along to the Adelphi Kitchen for a feed!

One thing that was immediately evident from our visit was the passion and dedication that the team feel for the restaurant. From the just so decor to the deliciously crafted summer punch (admittedly alcoholic....hic) and finally to the loving way they discuss their business, sourcing only the best catches and cuts to serve in the restaurant, experimenting consistently with new preparation and cooking techniques (they sincerely are a credit to their craft) and finally making sure the Adelphi experience is just so for all who come through the door.

We were treated to a vast array of fish from mussels, spiced halibut (YUM!) and langoustine to things a bit more out there like baby squid, which unfortunately despite my love of deep fried calamari I was not brave enough to try but loved watching my blogging counterparts giving it a good go. We sampled meat dishes where I discovered my new favourite thing to put in my mouth ever...haggis bon bons, oh and their take on macaroni cheese, really guys, if you never listen to anything else I recommend you... please try their macaroni I implore you! I attempted to share everything with Mairi of Copper Pink, however as an only child (and a hungry hungry person in general) I don't think I did very well (sorry!) particularly when deserts came a callin'

Desserts deserve a paragraph of their own so here goes. Served in a tapas style once again I attempted my sharing saga (ha!) but surely it's every blogger for themselves when laid down before your very eyes are chocolate mousse cake with home-made aero rhubarb chocolate, a creamy AH popcorn panacotta and a lemon meringue pie. Now usually I'm not a fan of chocolate desserts, they're too rich and dehydrate me something TERRIBLE, but this cake....this cake gets my vote ten times over! It was hands down my favourite part of the meal and I only wish I had a full sized one to myself (sorry guys sorry I was hungry okay?!)

 As a final parting gift we were given some of their delicious home-made chocolate fudge to take away (which I DEVOURED!) in a cute etsy style paper bag which was just the cherry on top of a foodie filled day with Adelphi.

When I can find someone willing enough I will definitely be visiting the Adelphi Kitchen again, even if just for some punch and chocolate cake! It is one of the Granite City's hidden foodie gems and has such a unique and quiet location which would be great for a dinner date, celebrating a birthday or you know just if you're hungry (as you do) Have you ever dined at the Adelphi? Let me know in the comments below if you have and if so what did you eat? I'm salivating again already! As usual catch me everywhere, on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for food and faced and sometimes even faces full of food!

Until next time folks, Adelphi away!

H.Elizabeth x

Not another blogger event | Spring Grazing with Giraffe

Spring, spring, spring. With each new spring and lamb bleat in the fields there's another new menu popping up at another restaurant, and when that happens, you can bet we bloggers are there with bells on and our forks at the ready. This week Giraffe invited the Abzmeet gang and a few others along to sample their brand new spring menu, featuring starters of all varieties, mains of all tastes, creeds and religions and desserts so delectable you can't help but order one of each! (maybe just me) And let's not get started on the cocktails.

For we Aberdonians and fellow Granite City gal pals (and boy pals I ain't sexist!) our Giraffe restaurant is situated on the upper level of my much beloved shopping centre Union Square. In amongst a sea of Italians, pizza huts and budget restaurants is one of me favourite places to go for a 'nice meal' so when they came a callin' you know I  was one of the first to answer. 

We arrived on the evening and got the choice of sampling a starter, main and cocktail or main, dessert and cocktail... guys is that even a choice?! The food I ended up going for on the night was their main of a new Harissa Chicken Burger which is basically a spiced chicken burger with an assortment of garden weeds and a side of chips...I am of course exaggerating! What I mean is there is a lot of veg in the burger but it's lovely all the same if you're into eatin' greens. And to finish off a dessert of white chocolate and passion fruit cheesecake which was DELICIOUS but very very filling and perhaps one to miss if you haven't got the sweetest of sweet tooths. 

Now I dedicate a paragraph to my cocktail.... my cocktail. Finally I chose one that wasn't a bum! Usually I'm a terrible judge of cocktail, I'll see a flavour I traditionally like for example lemon, strawberry or mint and go for it right away only to find it's whisky based, tequila infused or generally just a bit too much for me to handle. Quite a running theme in my life I dare say. Tonight though, tonight I struck gold...well yellow as it was a mango cocktail I went for. The cocktail I chose, mainly because most others chose it, was a Mango Mule, and all I'll say is it's a vodka, mango, long, tall glass of deliciousness and I was only sad I didn't have 2, or 4!

Overall I'm pleased to see Giraffe moving away from the sort of homely, warming dishes I usually associate with their brand and they're offering something a bit lighter, fresher tasting and generally spring-y. Though if you're not into Portuguese style dishes and cooking at the very least I recommend popping in for a cocktail...and a dessert, you won't regret it!

As per you can catch me on the usual channels chatting beauty, travel and probably cats and more beauty on Twitter, see more looky looks on Instagram and Facebook and of course more from the blog on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, I wanted to pop in a giraffe noise here but I'm not sure they make one!

H.Elizabeth x

Foodie Feasts with Union Square | Bloggers Safari Supper

I live for these sort of events. Well at least it seems like it recently, between feasting at Cue a few weeks ago to sampling the new culinary delights of Yo! Sushi and to last week where I joined my fellow Aberdeen bloggers for a Safari Supper at Aberdeen's Union Square, and yes, it's just as fun as it sounds!

Cocktails at Las Iguanas

Naturally the first stop on our safari was going to be Las Iguanas. Last year I fell in love with the Las Iguanas menu, particularly their cocktails so I was super excited to be visiting again. Unfortunately and as is a tradition with me I chose a bum cocktail.... opting for a Vanilla and Ginger Mojito sounded like a safe choice right? Nah, mine tasted more like a cough mixture and to say it made me a bit boozy would be an understatement. It's quite a feat to accidentally choose a rubbish cocktail really it can be considered pure talent considering Las Iguanas literally have dozens to choose from, next time I'll be opting for something less leafy green and more rainbow!

Starters at Yo! Sushi

Swiftly moving (stumbling) on from our pre dinner cocktails we visited Yo! Sushi. Now as you guys will know if you've been a regular reader, I actually sampled the new Yo! Sushi menu a couple of weeks ago, which you can read a little more about here. But today I threw caution to the wind and thought what the hell, lets try something different, so I got a Katsu.... which I devoured and accidentally filled myself up with.

Burgers and shakes at Byron Burger

Having never been to Byron but having heard a lot about it on the blogosphere lately I was quite excited to give them a go. Particularly since the Byron in question throws all kind of shade at their next door neighbour 'Handmade Burger' by pitching themselves as serving 'proper burgers' with a big fat sign oooh gurl!!! Here I think I was the only one who didn't opt for a shake, but I was also the only one who stuffed myself silly on starters tut tut, but they looked divine. Instead I had my trusty old diet coke and a cheese burger with my favourite Monterey Jack cheese and some sweet potato fries. To say they blew Handmade Burger out of the water simply wouldn't do them justice.

Dessert at Carluccios

Suffice to say by the time dessert rolled around I was just that, literally rolling around. Carluccios have secured their rep for THE place to visit in Union Square when dessert comes a callin' from fondants and cheesecakes to meringues the size of your face! But guys I couldn't, I just couldn't so unfortunately I copped out with a couple of sorbet scoops, mandarin and lemon. Lemon, now I LOVE lemon, but this lemon was not for the faint of heart or weak of tongue because it nearly blew my face off. But on the bright side made for a totally refreshing dessert.

My one regret? Not being able to eat more because of that darn katsu! Why this isn't the done way for dinner I'll never know! Next time I'm out for supper I'm definitely going safari. Big thanks to Bradley for organising such a fabby foodie event and of course all of my fellow Aberdeen bloggers who made the evening an absolute delight.

Have you ever safari'd your supper? Let me know what your ideal pit stops are along the way in the comments below, come share them with me on Twitter or if you'd just like to see me stuff my face a bit more (always guys always!) be sure to keep up with my posts on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, I'm well and truly safari'd!

H.Elizabeth x

Cake with a Cause | Easter Cake Off with RGU & Drugs Action

Eat cake for a good cause? I'm there with bells on and my fork at the ready, and that's just what the Aberdeen public have in store at the Easter Cake Off in association with RGU and local charity Drugs Action on the 19th of March at The Park Cafe, Hazlehead!

Not only are we going to be able to have our cake and eat it too, but those with a bit of Berry skills in their baking will get a chance to show off their talents all in the name of charity! There will be a bake off style cake competition with the 'show stopper cake' winning the grand prize! But if you're like me and you're more boozy in the kitchen than berry, don't worry there's something for you too. Whether you're looking to entertain the kids for the weekend with an Easter Egg Hunt, looking to relax with your gal pal as I will be doing with a top notch afternoon tea, or even if you're just looking for a day out then why not come along?

If you do fancy yourself as a bit of a Mary Berry or heck let's not be sexist, a Paul Hollywood, then get in touch to enter your cake in the comp by emailing rguevents.da@gmail.com, or you know get in touch with me and I'd be more than happy to judge your cake bake skills! Hurry up and book your tickets here though, they're selling like hot cakes (sorry guys I had to!)

Of course I'd love to see you along there, drop on by if you have the chance and come say hi to me and my very own gal pal, Anastasia of Natbees, we'll be the ladies of leisure with our tea and cream cakes!

Until next time folks, scone anyone?

H.Elizabeth

Right on CUE | Meat the new Faces of BBQ

 
Here come the meat sweats guys! You have been warned.

If you have been keeping a spy on my Instagram feed of late you'll have noticed I have been a bit of a pig! And why not, Aberdeen has been booming with new restaurants, take aways and become and all round foodie heaven these last couple of months, and last weekend I was lucky enough to be invited along to one such delight, CUE.

'Food is close to every breathing and passionate person’s heart, unquestionably Barbecue and wood cooked flavour evokes a bygone instinct, a carnivorous streak. The Pitboss peers into the blue haze from within the smoker. From your seat in the CUE you can smell the sizzling pork shoulders and sausage rings filling the air. The aroma makes your stomach growl with anticipation of the garlic sausage and moist brisket on order. Watering mouth and you know you have ordered more than you can eat, you relive the mantra: “Rub Me, Smoke Me, Sauce Me, Eat Me'  - So say the pioneers of 'this Barbecue thing' in the Granite City.

Tucked away in a cosy nook in the centre of Aberdeen you'll find the smokiest, sizzling new meat joint there is, offering a little bit of everything from a fun family atmosphere, guaranteed at only the greatest barbecues, cocktails for the sophistocat in you and let's of course not forget a beast of a meat feast (if that's your thing that is!) which is exactly what the brains behind CUE had in store for our visit.

Cooked and cured to perfection using their state of the art smoker imported all the way from 'murica you can have meat and eat it too, enjoy beef, briskets, sausages, pulled pork, and don't worry there are plenty of delectable dishes for the veggies too, CUE seem to have all of the BBQ bases covered, paired with their co owners saucey brand, Angus & Oink and they've perfected the recipe for a total winner! My personal favourite and recommendation  from their menu would be anything containing pulled pork and Angus & Oink BBQ Sauce, or if you're feeling particularly daring their Voodoo Mango sauce packs a sure fire punch destined to put a tear in even the most hardened spice addicts eye.

Are you salivating yet? Told you there would be meat sweats, so if you're looking for a steak, beef or even just a burger with a little bit of sizzle, spice or smoke there's only one place for you in the Granite City! Right on CUE for spring and of course the upcoming festivities for Mothers Day and the Easter Holidays there's fun for all of the family, whether you're popping in for a quick cocktail, sitting down to an epic family feast or even if you're just nipping in to have a gander at the murals and their restaurant mascot, Unihog.

Okay guys now that the meat sweats have well and truly set in I'll bid you a BBQ do, all in all I enjoyed my time at CUE, and as a meat and BBQ lover I can't wait to take my hubby along to enjoy a good ole' Granite City night out. I just also want to say a big thank you to Just Julia for organising another great blogger event  and to Scott from Angus & Oink for the very informative and enjoyable tour and of course the team at CUE for the fabulous food and great atmosphere! Hopefully you'll manage to get yourselves along to CUE when you next have a BBQ craving, or perhaps you already have, I'd love to hear what you thought of the menu, be sure to leave your thoughts and salivations in the comments below, come share with me on Twitter or if you'd just like to keep up with my meal plans be sure to follow Granite City Girl on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, I'd have to say they're right on CUE.

H.Elizabeth x
 

Pure Gym | Pure Loser Weight Loss Course

Today I'm coming at you with a rather special 'what to expect post' as you guys will probably know in the past I have covered a wide range of things from pure gym including kettlebells and spin most recently and I'd like to share my most recent gym going endeavour with you which is a little different to the usual half hour class and you're outta there that I'm used to, and that ladies and gentleman is the Pure Loser 6 week course.

It was the New Year (figures!) when I saw Pure Gym advertising their weight loss programme, I was always quite put off of trying it before now because the programme was very restricted and focused solely on what you can't eat rather than easing you in with a balanced diet, but since their course restructure the options feel a bit more open and therefore I was far more willing to give it a bash. The course itself lasts for 6 weeks and costs £20 in it's entirety, and includes a binder full of foodie and fitness info, a food diary, nutritionals as well as a weekly weigh in to keep you in check.

The first week the course was explained to us and we had our first ever weigh in and body fat measurements taken, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that in week one I had lost 3lbs which was fantastic as my weight plateaued months ago! Our trainer and holy spiritual weight loss guide, Andrew, is great he is full of tips for the week and recently introduced us to my new favourite snack psyllium husk with mixed seeds (don't worry domestic goddess post pending!)

I'm not going to lie the toughest part has been keeping myself in check during the evenings, I went vegetarian for a week and a bit but hubby wasn't all too pleased with the amount of quorn I was serving up nightly, he eventually had enough and succumbed to a McDonalds (and a Dominos, and a Burger King etc...) Since I work a 9am to 5pm job and attend the gym until around 7.30pm most evenings, I'm shattered by the time I get home and need to get myself into more of a routine of Sunday batch cooking - maybe you guys could act as my Sunday alarm and reminders? (please!)

To date I have lost 4.5lbs and ideally I'd love to lose 3 more before the formerly fat lady sings, I have upped my game in the gym, cleared my cupboards of smackery and asked my husband to hide everything else (though I reckon he has just hidden things in high places!) so as Shia says, JUST DO IT!

Have you guys ever joined a weight loss programme or had personal training sessions at the gym? I'd love to hear how you got on and how you managed your work / home / gym balance! Be sure to leave all thoughts and kindly comments in the box below, come share your experiences with my on Twitter or if you would just like to keep up with how I am getting on be sure to follow Granite City Girl on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, JUST DOIN' IT!

H.Elizabeth x

Domestic Goddess | Home made Chilli Wedges

This post has been quite a long time coming, as you'll have noticed we haven't had a 'domestic goddess' post on the blog for a good while now, but don't worry that doesn't mean our household has been surviving solely on McDonalds and takeaways, that just means we've been busy bees experimenting in the kitchen to come up with some more lovelies that are easy to make, taste fantastic and bonus points, they aren't going to give you that spare tyre some of my older recipes would, Creme Egg Brownie I'm looking at you!

Given my recent health kick and my general obsession for all things food, I thought I would combine the two and share my favourite dinner accompaniment, or rather my favourite thing to stuff my face with after a long ass day, home made chilli wedges.

Equipment
Baking Tray
Chopping Board
Colander
Sharp Knife
Fish Slice  

Ingredients
4 Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes
Olive Oil (I use garlic infused)
1 Cal Oil Spray
Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Paprika
Chilli Flakes

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200C 

2. Wash your tatties thoroughly and chop them in half lengthwise and then another couple of times lengthwise (obviously it will depend on the size of your potatoes) then cut them in half. 

3. Add them to your plastic bowl with a few teaspoonfuls of your olive oil and give them a good coat (use your hands but remember to wash em first!)

4. Add a dash of salt and pepper and some paprika to the potatoes, you can use as much or as little as you like depending on how spicy you like your food. Then finally sprinkle with a good dousing of chilli flakes (can you tell I like my food spicy?)

5. Spritz your baking tray with a few of your 1 cal spray and spread your potatoes evenly across the tray. Add them to the oven and keep an eye on them for about half an hour.

6. Serve with sweet chilli or garlic sauce (my all time favourite!)

These have been my favourite thing to throw together and chuck in the oven recently, and the beauty is you can have them any way you like. With cheese, with garlic or any spice or herb you choose, the sky is the limit, just don't go crazy with wedgie power!

Hopefully you have enjoyed this little 'domestic goddess' comeback, I just wanted to give you something easy oozy for beginners who maybe work late, go to the gym or just straight up can't be bothered! If you'd like to see more recipes and easy foodie ideas on Granite City Girl be sure to leave your thoughts in the comments below, I really love hearing from you guys, you can also catch up with me on Twitter or more from Granite City Girl on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks.

H.Elizabeth x

The Horn | Scotlands Favourite Greasy Spoon

There are very few people in Scotland who can honestly say they have never enjoyed a fry up or a legendary bacon sarnie from the Horn. Located just 20 minutes outside of Perth, the family run cafe has been famed throughout Scotland and beyond for their friendly atmosphere, hearty portions and let's not forget the gigantic cow on the roof you simply cannot miss! I for one treasure childhood memories of car trips with my family on days out to Edinburgh, Glasgow or even just to Dundee, where we never forgot to make that effort to travel the extra 20 minutes to visit our favourite fry up joint. So you can imagine my excitement when my family asked me on yet another road trip recently to Livingston, where upon I was informed we would indeed be visiting The Horn.

Obviously, this is a sentence I never thought I would type when I sat down and created Granite City Girl, but I have never been more excited to see that big cow than I was on our road trip to Livingston, in fact I was so excited, I only had half a bowl of coco pops that morning, I mean wow right? My body was ready for bacon!

The Horn was every bit the shabby chic eatery I remember, in my head at least, the original greasy spoon of Scotland  from the big coo outside to the fake horses heid on the waa' and finally to the best bacon roll I have ever had. Personally I reckon the picture speaks for itself but just in case I need to clarify it a little further, that up there is a big mofo of a bacon roll that I literally had to pick bits of bacon out of or risk dislocating my jaw to get my mouth around, and let me tell you I'd probably say it was worth it if I had!

Now I know, I can already feel the health nuts and vegetarians of the world judging me, but not to worry I didn't forget about you guys. The Horn is unique as a wee pit stop on your way North / South because you can even fit in a little shopping spree while you're there. They have everything from souvenirs for the kids and family such as tea towels and aprons, to name plaques, jams, chutneys, spreads, all manner of foodie gifts and let us not forget their plethora of flavours in their ice cream parlour, perfect for your sweet toothed travel companion.

It's funny, you know when you hear of people visiting a special place from childhood and just not getting that same magical feeling you did back then? You know like everyone and Storybook Glen aka, Aberdeen's nightmare fueled 'wonderland', well I just didn't get that with The Horn, nope, it was still the same deliciously greasy, bacon filled eatery I have always remembered, but if your first visit is in adulthood and you're expecting the ritz, then give this a miss!

As usual I love getting to know you guys so leave me your favourite travel moments or greasy spoon eateries in the comments below, come share your favourite foodie places on Twitter or of course if you'd like to see more of me, my family and you know bacon then be sure to keep up to date with Granite City Girl on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, gettin my grease on!

H.Elizabeth x

Big shout to my mum, dad and grandma for thinking of bringing me along for the journey even if I was a bit of a Shrek donkey through the duration of the drive!

Family Road Trip | Baxters Highland Food Village Fochabers

 
Is there anything better than spending time with your family? Writing this I can already see my family rolling their eyes, well I have to get it from somewhere. Every weekend my parents spend time with my grandma and often take her out for the day, whether that's a jaunt to the shops, a trip to Dundee, out for lunch or maybe just chilling inside watching tipping point (it always seems to be on when I visit!) and sometimes, quite often actually, I'll tag along for the ride (you know, that and the free food)

So on this particular day when I tagged along we braved the journey Northward (it was snowing) for about an hour to Fochabers to visit the Baxters factory and their food village; note, if I hear the words, 'food' and 'village' in the same sentence I'm there! Having only recently visited the BBC Good Food Show I was still very much in the foodie mindset and on the hunt for some more culinary delights.

The Baxters Highland Village is home to a variety of specialist shops and sort of reminded me of a mini German market with an obvious Scottish Twist. From stores selling scarves, handbags and Highland fashion designer pieces to cook shops with a plethora of crockery, a cafe and let's not forget what we all came for, food stores and stocks a plenty, I was in my element. We took a visit to their newly opened seasonal Christmas store, which in all truth looked like Santa Clause had thrown up all over the shop, from baubles, trees, decorations, wreaths, plaques and ornaments to scented sticks you can literally hang on your tree this place had it all! Short of a real life reindeer  this would be a perfect Santas grotto / workshop away from the North Pole. Thankfully I was able to compose myself enough to not run out of the store with all of the glittery goodness and take a few snaps in the process.

Visiting the food village was enough to make the journey worth while, with chutneys, jams, spreads and samples a plenty I could have easily spent a small fortune on things I would just eat from the jar, and lets not get me started on their range of teas, coffees and hot chocolates! The Baxters food store stocks brands from independent retailers up and down the country which I love as it gives you a chance to try something a little different and can be considered a must visit and a haven for fellow foodies. Everything seemed to be quite pricey for the products they were selling, retailing a pumpkin spiced hot chocolate at £5.99 and I simply couldn't justify it with a cupboard full of hot chocs and coffee flavourings at home, so off we popped to the confectionery section - something we can ALWAYS justify. As luck would have it Baxters happened to stock my all time, new favourite chocolate brand, Seed and Bean who I discovered at the BBC Good Food Show in November - and given it is a little more difficult to come by in Aberdeen I plan to savour my Cornish Sea Salt and Lime bar throughout the festive season... maybe. 

We didn't stick around for lunch, none of us were very hungry on account of a lush McMuffin breakfast (oops) and Fochabers was just so cold and wintery we weren't sticking around in search for an eatery in town, so we headed on back to Inverurie for dinner, cake and a much needed hot chocolate. Overall I enjoyed my wee family day out (thank you Dad for braving the icy roads for our enjoyment!) I really think this would be a great family day out nearer Christmas, if the weather permits of course, it all just feels so festive and has put me right in the mood for Christmas.

What do you love to do with your family, have you ever visited the Baxters Highland Village? I'd love to hear where you go for your own little adventures, be sure to leave your comments below, or come share them with me on Twitter. As always you can follow more of my foodie faves and adventures on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, om nom noming my way up North.

H.Elizabeth x 

Ladies who Brunch | Brunch at All Bar One Glasgow

If I'm completely honest with you these Glasgow foodie posts are honestly a way for me to keep my taste buds and memories of the fabulous food of that very magical weekend alive, not that I'm using you guys to relive my foodie fantasies or anything... ahem... So today the memory I'm choosing to revel in and get jealous of my past self because of is our trip to the ever stylish All Bar One, St Vincent Street in Glasgow's city centre. 

All Bar One really does have all a bar can offer, with the ability of carrying you through from breakfast to brunch and a slap up supper right through to cocktails and nibbles after work. The stylish surroundings (of which the biggest mirror in the world was my fave) and spacious layout mean day or night All Bar One can be your go to and it was certainly our go to after a rather stressful train journey and hike in the pouring Glasgow rain! 

Our order was taken pretty much straight away and it was lovely despite being breakfast / brunch having table service and not having to go up to the bar to order (does this make me lazy? Probably) We ordered from the breakfast menu, and I suppose I lied a little on the title of this post because it was far too early to be considered brunch... but doesn't it just roll off the tongue better when you say brunch?  Breakfast for me conjures up images of droopy eyed individuals sat with a bowl of sad looking cornflakes and a black coffee... brunch just happens to be breakfasts glamorous later sister. Okay fine! It was breakfast.

I ordered the Eggs Benedict which as opposed to the more traditional bacon came with a gorgeously textured thick ham which wasn't fatty or unfavourably chewy in the slightest (can you tell I have a 'thing' about ham?) The eggs also came served with a sprinkling of mixed seeds which offered a great contrasting crunch to the texture of the eggs and toasted muffin that accompanied, and may I also just say, that egg and hollandaise sauce, oh my goodness that egg and hollandaise sauce! In fact I have never experienced such a sadness linked to food when I finished my breakfast that morning but having said that I really do think it's an experience you all should try for yourselves!

The food was so reasonably priced and a great thing about All Bar One is that usually if you check online prior to visiting you can download a 2 for 1 voucher or something similar that will make your breakfast experience even sweeter....well cheaper at least. So after taking a couple of selfies in the biggest mirror in the world we left All Bar One Glasgow full and content and ready to face the day ahead (the BBC Good Food Show in case you were wondering) 

Well guys, my mouth is now well and truly watering and I'm sitting here as I type resenting my past self and it was literally only a week ago. Now I'm back to life and reality sat on my sofa with my own sad looking bowl of cornflakes, puffy eyes, clutching the worlds biggest black coffee trying to get to grips with the morning ahead.... nothing like the All Bar One experience I tell you, but who knows, maybe in the future my husband will become something of an amazing chef and we'll purchase the second biggest mirror in the world... a girl can dream right?

Hopefully you have enjoyed reading yet another Granite City Girl travels / foodie post and perhaps you'll pop into an All Bar One in your area or in Glasgow particularly. Be sure to leave me some of your favourite foodie joints for breakfast / brunch in the comments below whether your thing is McDonalds or Malmaison tell me what is the best breakfast / brunch you've ever had is (it might even be that bowl of cornflakes we spoke about earlier!) Otherwise ladies and gents you can catch me on Twitter or more from the Granite City Girl blog on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, I'm in search of the next best brunch.

H.Elizabeth x

Girls Day Out | BBC Good Food Show Scotland

These type of posts are my favourite, whether I'm reading them and sharing in someone elses memories of a fun weekend, a part of their childhood, even just a trip to a restaurant or writing them and reliving my own I could quite happily waste away hours, even days reading and writing and simply soaking up all manner of memories. And you know my favourite type of memories? Foodie memories and that is what I'm bringing you today so sit back, relax and pray for a future with foodie-vision.

So as you guys probably guessed or read from this post a few weeks ago I attended this years BBC Good Food Show Scotland (because England get their own mini shows all over the country but Scotland are of course just one big city... rant over) and stuffed my face silly with samples of sweet and savoury delights all of Scotland has to offer.

The BBC Good Food Show Scotland has something for everyone, and I'm not just talking about the food, there are stalls for shopping and sampling, celebrity chef interviews, cookery workshops, cocktail workshops, pop up restaurants, live demonstrations and of course the opportunity to take in all of the culinary delights this country has to offer. Admittedly I hadn't planned the day quite as well as others perhaps would have and we missed out on quite a few of the activities but had great fun shopping and sampling as well as sneaking a peak or two at the celebrity interviews and live demonstrations.

Now I hate to be a name dropper! But we discovered a couple of quite amazing brands at the show this year and I just want to shine a spotlight on one such brand called Seed and Bean who are a 100% ethical and organic confectionery company formed in Derbyshire who make the most amazing chocolate flavours I have ever tasted in my life. It was a bit of a struggle to sample because their stall was heaving! What I mean by heaving is that my friend almost got beaten up by some angry vegans who were so desperate for some chocolate they abandoned all queuing etiquette we Brits are known for, trust me though when I say, it was worth it. I came away with a Cornish Sea Salt and Lime chocolate bar and I'm sad to say it was finished within a couple of evenings in front of the TV. Swiftly they have been added to my Christmas list *cough cough*

I urge you, if there is a Good Food Show near you in the future do go along, even if just for the free samples! You'll discover an amazing plethora of new and exciting foods, local, organic, fair trade, home made, home grown, vegan, vegetarian, chocolate, chips, chutney, vodka, gin, sausages, sweeties, cupcakes, ice cream and that was just breakfast... 

Be sure to let me know in the comments below if you have ever visited a Good Food Show or perhaps if your city just happens to have an amazing farmers market, I do love a foodie chat. As usual you can catch me Tweeting about food and getting fat on Twitter and you can always see more of what I'm stuffing my face with if you keep up with Granite City Girl on Bloglovin. 

Until next time folks, think I've gained the Good Food Show stone!

H.Elizabeth x

BBC Good Food Show Glasgow | Granite City Girl Reader Discount

Hello everyone, as you can undoubtedly tell it is not Wednesday or Friday (at least I hope not!) but today I am coming at you with a special little post that includes a reader discount for tickets to the BBC Good Food Show which is coming to Glasgow's SECC in November (6th - 8th)

Now you guys know how much I love food, well you know maybe you don't but guys, I love food! So when the BBC Good Food Show got in touch to collab and give me an offer to share with you lovely lot how could I resist?

The BBC Good Food Show Scotland is a showcase of culinary talents from across the UK and spotlights exceptional chefs, bakers and candlestick makers (no not really, sorry!) There are a whole host of events taking part throughout the weekend from interviews, demonstrations, book signings and if you've got time a spot of shopping! This year sees the likes of our baking faves Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry in attendance as well as Scots favourite Tom Kitchin. For the full line up of celebrity chefs, events and general happenings of the weekend be sure to head on over to the BBC Good Food Show Scotland website

Granite City Girl Reader Discount

So on to the juicy, steaky goodness part of this post, all you lovely lot have to do to is use the code MVS2 to get 20% off tickets booked from their online web store. The promo code expires on the 1st of October so if you'd like to get your hands on these foodie goodies be there or be square (oh yeah, that's right!)

I hope to make it down myself for the weekend with a couple of my friends so I'd love to know if you are heading down too, who knows we could meet, drink and get fat together! Do let me know if you have decided that yes I am a human person, I like food and I'm doin' this thing in the comments below, share your foodie inspos with me on Twitter or if you'd just like to keep an eye on this space for more discounts (wink wink) you can follow Granite City Girl on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, feeding my inner foodie.

H.Elizabeth x

Girls Night | Coast to Coast VIP Evening

Where to begin, oh my goodness where to begin? As many of you know I was recently  invited to come along to Aberdeen's Union Square to a VIP evening to celebrate the launch of their brand new American style restaurant Coast 2 Coast. As you guys will have seen from my Aberdeen Events post, the evening basically promised plenty of fine dining, entertainment and booze (by god was there booze) and trust me when I say they did not disappoint.

For the launch night I was given a plus one, which was great as I didn't want to be wining and dining billy no mates, so I brought along my friend Jodie for a good old catch up and you know I just wanted to treat one of my friends! We arrived on time for our reservation at 8pm and were offered a glass of prosecco or orange juice as we were shown to our table which was a lovely secluded spot where we could have a good natter and a catch up at the front end of the restaurant. The inside of the restaurant is very swish and stylish with vinyl blacks and reds and had everything from big family booths, to long party tables to smaller more intimate areas for dining as a twosome. We were truly given the all American dining experience, from the level of service to the quality of the food and everything was more than impressive to say the least.

Once we were seated and all settled in we were introduced to our waiter for the evening who wasted no time in bringing over our cocktails, a strawberry cheesecake daiquiri and a raspberry mojito - both of which were to die for (not that I had both of course... ahem) After our drinks and a lovely chat we were brought over a platter (yes a platter) full of starters, which had everything ranging from salted breaded pretzels, chicken wings, ribs, prawns and calamari - portions large enough to feed four, but despite our lacking in numbers we powered on through! Everything was lush, though I would say if you were a vegetarian you may struggle a little bit but I'm sure there were vegetarian alternatives available but for us it was a veritable meat fest mmmmm!

Brining with him ever more drinks in the form of white wine, our waiter explained we were allowed to have anything we liked from the menu for our mains, so I opted for a Cajun Chicken Melt Wrap with sweet potato fries and my friend had a lovely pasta dish, whose ingredients escape me. The wrap was amazing and complimented by the sweet potato fries was just heaven on a plate for me, they weren't scared with the portion sizes and I seriously feared for my dessert and worried I  just wouldn't be able to handle the final course! Fear not though we pushed on through and I enjoyed a gorge vanilla cheesecake with honeycomb pieces and a caramel drizzle (drool)

We spent a good 20 minutes or so chatting before saying our goodbyes to Coast to Coast and promised we would be back soon, everything from the decor, to the staff and of course most importantly the food was brilliant down to a T and after judging the prices on the menu for a bit I decided yes it would be well worth the cost.

Do you have a Coast to Coast in your town, if so I'd love to hear about your experiences, or perhaps you're a fellow Aberdonian and you're off to try the all American treat, be sure to leave your comments about the restaurant and your overall thoughts below, come share them with me on Twitter, or if you'd like to see more culinary delights and carry ons be sure to follow Granite City Girl on Bloglovin.

Until next time folks, I'm going costal!

H.Elizabeth x