Resident Advisors: Connie and Andy, Slow Progress
Top tips from Connie and Andy of Slow Progress Records & Coffee, a little shop on Blackfriars Street between the Royal Mile and the Cowgate with a lovely community events space out the back
This article is taken from the 2025 edition of The Skinny Guide to Edinburgh – a 116-page selection of some of our favourite things to do and places to go across the city. Pick up a copy at venues across Edinburgh this summer, or read it online via Issuu.
What’s been a highlight of the last 12 months?
The highlights of the year always include Record Store Day and hosting PBH Free Fringe shows in August. Last year we were featured on BBC 6 Music and Connie had a lovely chat with Huw Stephens live on air which was cool!
What’s coming up in the future for you?
We're hoping to organise even more fun music-related events in our backroom – keep an eye out for that!
Where do you recommend people go in Edinburgh?
We have an almost-four year old so we normally recommend the winning combo of the museum on Chambers Street and The Meadows. I also always tell people to get to the coast – Portobello, Wardie Bay or Cramond.
Where's your favourite place to eat in Edinburgh?
We love Civerinos, mainly for the garlic crust bites. Whenever people come into the shop looking for brunch, I always tell them Kilimanjaro Coffee in Newington – I'm never disappointed!
Where's your favourite place to drink in Edinburgh?
Of course we have to say our beloved next-door neighbours, Salt Horse! Their thing is beer, but they'll do you a wine or a cider as well if you ask nicely. A great vibe and lovely staff.
What's your favourite independent shop in Edinburgh?
Apart from our own shop obviously, we love Easter Greens at the top of Easter Road – it’s a fully vegan supermarket (small but has so much stuff!!), and Lighthouse Books, which is an absolute institution.
Why do you like living here?
Edinburgh has everything! But not too big and not too scary!
What annoys you about living here?
Not to be rude but it's got to be the tourists. I'm sorry! Pedestrian etiquette leaves a lot to be desired!
Do you have a Fringe survival tip?
Fold away raincoat, bottled water, account for extra travel/queueing time. Download your podcasts before you go out because there’s no signal anywhere.
Slow Progress Records & Coffee, 53 Blackfriars St
slowprogress.co.uk