Zara Gladman's Perfect Day in Glasgow
Zara Gladman, creator of Glasgow's very own West End mum Aileen, takes us on a perfect day out in the city
What’s your ideal morning activity?
I’m not a morning person, so probably doomscrolling in bed. But if I’m leaving the flat, something relaxing and non-verbal. I did an outdoor pilates class in the rose garden at the Botanic Gardens once and felt equal parts smug and West End wanker. It was dreamy.
Coffee is essential. 1841 on Vinicombe Street is my current fave but there’s dozens of roasters* (ha ha!) in Glasgow. Eusebi use actual flakes of chocolate on their cappuccinos, which is always a rush.
What’s the weather like on your perfect day?
Glorious sunshine. Glasgow transforms into some kind of utopia when the sun is out. Everyone’s in a good mood. You’ll find a whole cross section of society sunbathing in the park, taps aff**, peacefully coexisting.
You’re going out for breakfast – where do you go and what are you eating?
The best brunches are in the Southside. Bramble, Cafe Strangebrew or Sunny Acre. I’ll order anything with avocado because I’m a millennial cliché. If I’m hungover then it’s a vegan morning roll from Meadow Road in Thornwood.
What would you say are the unmissable sights in Glasgow?
The Necropolis is one of my favourite places: a cemetery on a hill with great views. I had my first date with my boyfriend there (my suggestion). I’m not even a goth. Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum is a must. For something a bit different, check out Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre in Trongate – I won’t spoil it, just go! For some wholesome outdoor time, hop on a bike to Pollok Park to visit the Highland cows.
Are there any activities that are unique to the city?
A ride on the Subway (the third-oldest metro system in the world, says every Glaswegian you never asked).
Where are you going for lunch and what are you having?
Greggs, for a sausage roll 'with a wee bit of heat in it.'
It’s late afternoon, time for a drink. Where are you heading?
If the sun is shining, you’ll find me with a spritz outside Naked Soup or in the West Side Tavern beer garden. If I’m in the mood for a quiet pint then The Doublet, upstairs. If I’m in the mood for a less quiet pint, The Allison Arms.
What does your evening look like – dinner? Out to see a show? Gig?
It’s all about food for me. Beirut Star is my favourite Lebanese. If I’m feeling fancy, Ka Pao or Sebbs. Suissi is an amazing vegan Malaysian restaurant, they do the crunchiest salt and chilli chips in Glasgow. I’ll burn off dinner by dancing at a gig at The Barrowlands, one of the best venues in the world.
And then afterwards, how does the night end on your perfect Glasgow day?
If alcohol has been consumed, then chips and cheese with salt and vinegar. And don’t scrimp on the vinegar.
*Roaster [noun]: In Glasgow slang, a roaster is a derogatory term for a foolish, obnoxious, or annoying person
**Taps aff [adjective]: A Scottish slang term that literally translates to 'tops off.' It is a cultural phenomenon used to describe the mass removal of tops when the temperature exceeds 14 degrees celsius
Zara Gladman is... Aileen: Cameron's Gap Year Fundraiser, Monkey Barrel (Cabaret Voltaire 1), 12 Aug, 9.30pm