Good morning lovely people
Good things take time. A bit like Nonna G’s Christmas pudding. The pressure to make one this year for home, that lives up to her memory and her scrutiny, will keep us entertained well into the New Year.
Christmas is one time of the year, we can all agree, we never have to wait for. Some other things we have to wait for or come as a complete surprise. These are often very much more appreciated.
I can’t ride a bike. My baby brother (six years older than me) lovingly restored his bike for my 9th birthday. He touched up the paint work, mended the puncture took him weeks. The excitement was like a Gala Day when he came into the kitchen in the Wemyss Cafe in Port Seton (it had a small garden at the back where he’d been working away). “Carina come outside, your bikes ready”. It was like Rocco. I’d run to anyone that said my name. It didn’t take long to get outside and see someone had stolen the bike.
I’m determined to learn, many things, especially riding a bike. It will happen eventually and will be a shock to many. A bit like Victor receiving his Cavaliere from the President of the Italian Republic earlier this week. He is now Knight of the Order of the Star of Italy. A huge honour, celebrating his commitment to Italian heritage and to sustainable practice in Scotland and in Italy over the 20 years. Recognition was given for the support of all our artisan suppliers in Scotland for our venues at The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant at the National Galleries of Scotland and up at Cannonball Restaurant. He’s as happy as a nine year old getting a bike!
Continuing our celebration, can I share that our new cook book is officially available for pre order. I started back in 2017. I was aiming for 2019 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of my family arriving in Scotland. Missed that deadline. Then Covid came along. Here we are almost seven years later and I can honestly say it’s better than I could have imagined, thanks to all the amazing people who helped us get it finished.
The Contini Cookbook. A collection of recipes from George Street, family stories and an insight into some of our favourite Italian treasures. Over 103 recipes including the secret to our Contadino.
Alina and Ambar have done an amazing job with the food photography. All taken in the restaurant over six months so you can feel the change in the seasons in each image.
A huge thank you to the team at Birlinn. An Edinburgh publishing house (editorial and design), beautifully printed in Glasgow. Truly wonderful to work locally. The book, like Cavaliere, is something we are all really proud of.
I would like to invite you all to the official launch on 6 November at Contini George Street, 4pm to 6pm. We’ll be sharing a glass of Prosecco and some delicious crostini for anyone buying a book. You can toast Victor too when you come. Alternatively you are able to pre order online and dispatch will be shortly after this official date.
Keep well and it’s never too late to finish what you started
Carina
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