Happy New Year
Good morning lovely people
2024 was a busy year on every front and cancelling Hogmanay didn’t stop us either. 20 years at Contini George Street, 15 at The Scottish Cafe and 10 at Cannonball, and add a 30th wedding anniversary and a 21st birthday too.
In with the new and out with the old. (Sadly lots of the same old political outcomes will be thrust upon us this year. No choice but to get on with it.)
Last year Nonna G arrived at her desired destination, if she isn’t in heaven we’d have heard. As one door closes another one opens and our amazing niece Sofia (who makes our olive oil) delivered a beautiful new bundle of perfectness in less than 30 minutes. She’s such a clever mummy.
Last year also saw our MPs voting in favour of proposals to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales. The UK bill mandates approval by the High Court while in Scotland the Bill leaves the decision entirely in the hands of doctors. I’m trying to get my head around the fundamentals that differ north and south of the border, both look like it will become law. I discussed this with my brother who’s 63. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis when he was 18. He has been wheelchair bound longer than not. There have been many times that those of us watching his suffering could have wished for his burden to be eased. Looking on, it has looked unbearable. His strength, will and fight for life has won every time. His suffering is at the far end of this brutal disease which makes his recovery, each time, even more miraculous. His wise words, hardly audible, shared “Why are we spending more money ending life than preserving it?”. Another very emotive turning point in our society.
Our team that got us through 2024, like my big brother, are my superheros. Alina leading the charge. We had a very strong sales year in 2024 (thank you all) but challenges exist. Job mobility has never been more fluid. New workers rights and budget costs being introduced in 2025 will add further complexities. Interesting times.
Victor and Gardener John have the Kitchen Garden planting planned 2025. We’ll have more produce than ever and Beekeeper Andrew has helped Victor deliver bumper honey. Global warming has helped us here. The 700 olive trees in Picinisco will be getting necessary pruning over the next few months. We’re certifying organic, something we’ve never done for the Kitchen Garden (although it is) but due to production and labelling in Italy we feel it’s the best route.
Our kitchen refit at Contini George Street will take place this week. We won’t be open until 13th January. The teams at Cannonball are ready to look after you for breakfast from 11am, lunch, Cocktails and dinner. If you quote Contini on booking we’ll have a little glass of Prosecco waiting for you. The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant is open as usual and with Turner in January celebrating 250th year there is much to see.
2025 will have new challenges. As always we’re ready and willing. How lucky are we to live and work in Edinburgh. This year will be packed full of fun and many great reasons to visit.
Keep well and we’re very much looking forward to looking after. Sharing good food with friends and family. Life is precious, let’s all make the most of it.
Carina