With the festival coming into full swing, Tara Nowy, model and daughter of Marillion frontman Fish, gives the run down on her favourite places in Edinburgh, from trawling in vintage shops to eating sushi.
What’s your fondest childhood memory of Edinburgh?
It would definitely be a day trip I had with my granddad when I was around nine years old. I had never properly seen Edinburgh before but I just remember roaming the cobbled streets and being told stories such as that of Greyfriars Bobby, visiting the museum and having a tea and scone in the cafe. It's probably when I realised how magical Edinburgh is.
If you had 24 hours in the city what would you do?
It’s dependant on the time of year, because in August I would just be trawling the different shows. But any other time I would definitely advise just having a wander and take in the beautiful city!
There are so many gorgeous shops and little cafes and often art exhibitions. The Brass Monkey is always great for a sneaky pint, it really has that old man pub vibe which I love.
If you prefer a great coffee and some of the most amazing bread and German cakes - including Baum Kuchen - then head to Falko on Bruntsfield Place. At night there are often live gigs on. A favourite place for me to go to is Whistle Binkies. I have seen some great talent there such as the Victorian Trout Conspiracy, or The Jazz Bar for a more chilled out night.
Where’s your favourite place to buy clothes?
It would probably have to be Armstrongs. It's a complete and utter treasure trove! I can spend hours sifting through the rails. For hats it would definitely be Joyce Paton's Boutique. Her designs are absolutely stunning and can also be found in Jane Davidson on Thistle Street, another go-to store for a carefully selected collection of pieces from designers such as Missoni, Dries van Noten and Diane von Furstenberg.
What would be your perfect Friday night?
Catching up with friends somewhere like Joseph Pearce on Elm Row - it’s great for sundowners. Then maybe a meal in a Japanese restaurant. I would follow that with a live gig or a boogie in Cabaret Voltaire, which is probably my favourite club in Edinburgh. But if I fancy something a little more grimy, Sneaky Pete’s is my go-to club.
Favourite place for food?
Sushi is my absolute favourite, hands down. I could eat it every day for the rest of my life and never get sick. Sushiya by Haymarket is literally a cupboard but does a fantastic "tataki", Yes Sushi on Hannover street is excellent and good value, while Kampai is a bit more expensive but a lovely place to take a date.
If I am having a day where all I want is meat and carbs then I go to Oink on Victoria Street for a big juicy pork-packed roll topped with apple sauce. You can't miss it as they have a whole roast pig in the window!
The Cool Guide to Edinburgh, by Caroline Young (Thistle Publishing) is available on Amazon now.
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