My Bristol Favourites: Mia Vines Booth

Mia Vines Booth is Bristol24/7’s new Editorial Assistant.

Before starting work at Bristol24/7 – originally as part of the Kickstarter scheme – Mia graduated with a history degree from the University of Bristol, where she wrote one of the best undergraduate dissertations of 2021.

These are Mia’s top-five Bristol favourites:

The Cube

Inside the Cube – photo: Bristol24/7

“This unassuming venue plays host to some of the wackiest and wildest films, plays and theatrical productions. The makeshift bar and cosy cinema attracts the most left-field of cinephiles. So if director Q&As at Watershed and that costly Mubi subscription aren’t quite cutting it for you, head here.

“For a taste of what to expect, my most recent visit to the Cube was ridiculously surreal, as creatures ‘scraped up from the murky depths of the sewers’ were ‘hosed off and dumped onto the stage for one to ogle and jeer at’.

“The Cube also runs workshops and the space is entirely volunteer-led so for those looking to get into film and curation, drop them a message – but beware, many of the Cube’s events are not for the fainthearted.”

M32 Flea Market

Find crafts, jewellery, plants, vintage records, antiques, pre-loved clothing and food at the M32 Flea Market – photo: M32 Flea Market

“The M32 Flea Market is one of the most important dates in my calendar. Taking place on the last Saturday of every month, the market is situated next to IKEA, underneath the M32 just off Stapleton Road in Easton.

“It’s an absolute goldmine for thrifters. I’ll usually bring a £20 note and a couple of big bags that are often filled within minutes of arriving. Past purchases (some more questionable than others) include a spiralizer, a suede jacket that has become a staple in my wardrobe, a novelty teacup and endless garish accessories.

“It’s a wonderful project that has turned an abandoned plot of wasteland into a thriving community spot for both locals and travellers from far and wide. Get there early and don’t be afraid to haggle.”

Strange Brew

Strange Brew used to be a car showroom – photo: Strange Brew

“Strange Brew has recently been on everyone’s My Bristol Favourites lists for a reason. Having opened again after lockdown with a meticulously-curated first-rate lineup, it has DJs and creatives from all over fighting for a spot.

“The Fairfax Street venue has mastered the day to night crossover, skilfully blending artist workshops, live music, talks and DJ sets in a seamless progression of acts.

“Strange Brew prides itself on carefully selecting acts that often cater for a niche audience of superfans. However even with my embarrassingly novice DJ knowledge, word gets out fast about their gigs. My last three trips there included the Bristol-raised DJ Batu and London-based DJ Call Super. Special shoutout to my flatmate for his excellent recommendations.

“This place is having a moment. Get tickets early and keep an eye out for events in the back room. That’s where the magic happens.”

Cafe Cuba

Mia (right) sampling the mojitos at Cafe Cuba – photo: Mia Vines Booth

“For someone who is not much of a cocktail drinker, Cafe Cuba on Stokes Croft has successfully won my heart with their phenomenal mojitos. They are not only the best in Bristol but the best in the UK for me, rivalling only those made in its original birthplace of Cuba, where I’m sure the infamous La Bodeguita del Medio make the meanest mojitos for a considerably lower price.

“Fully loaded, with an expertly accomplished balance of sugar syrup, lime and mint, Cafe Cuba doesn’t hold back on their mojitos. The garnish even includes a Cuban flag to take home with you, and the owners are always so welcoming and friendly.

“Add some fried plantain or avocado to line the stomach, because Cafe Cuba doesn’t hold back on the rum.”

Spike Island

“Once you’re in, it’s difficult to leave Spike Island. I’ve always found galleries to be enormously peaceful spaces and can only compare the feeling to what I imagine religious people must experience when they walk into a place of worship.

“The gallery’s latest residency, the LA-based artist Candice Lin, mesmerised me with her works that draw on histories of trade, colonialism and migration through a highly sensory experience.

“Emmeline cafe is equally arresting for the senses, boasting delicious pastries, frittatas and salads. As John Stuart Mill rightly pointed out, it’s not just minds that need feeding.”

Main photo: Mia Vines Booth

Read more: In photos: Spike Island Open Studios 2022

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