People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol Favourites: Safiya Bashir
Safiya Bashir has been freelancing at Bristol24/7 since February 2021, writing articles about everything from skateboarding, to South Asian DJs to one of Bristol’s last thatched houses.
As well as writing, Safiya has hosted the Bristol24/7 Presents series, the online panel events that have explored issues from mental health in the workplace to diversity in boardrooms with experts across the city.
Sign up for the next event on February 17, which will explore actions that businesses can take to become sustainable.
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These are Safiya’s top-five Bristol favourites:
Crofters Rights
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZP23YNgDau/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
“This has been a staple location ever since I can remember. Whether you’re popping in for pizza or want a night out, Crofters has provided many fun evenings and the annual Winter Whine feels like a Cotham School reunion every Christmas. And on a more biased note, I’m going to host my own night here later this month that is aiming to champion South Asian DJs and push their representation across the city. For those into Bhangra, Bollywood, UK Garage, Afro House – grab a ticket and come join RepresentAsian on Friday, February 18!”
Souk Kitchen
Souk Kitchen has two restaurants in Bristol, on Apsley Road in Clifton and North Street in Bedminster – photo: Martin Booth
“Since opening round the corner from my parents, Souk Kitchen has become a regular for us. If we’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary or if I somehow manage to persuade them to take me out for no reason: we’ll definitely be heading to Souk Kitchen. The Middle Eastern-inspired menu is constantly changing to ensure you’re never bored of the food no matter how often you’re there.”
The Canteen
The Canteen has recently been undergoing a refurbishment – photo: Martin Booth
“Just across from Crofters Rights is The Canteen is another of my favourite spots in Bristol. With music, a large terrace and a new vegetarian menu, it’s a great place to spend an evening any time of the year. As well as all of this, The Canteen is an important venue that puts the community at the centre of everything it does. Last year, they partnered up with the Bristol Drugs Project to help them provide essential services.”
Ashton Court
Ashton Court offers panoramic views across Bristol – photo: Sam Jolly
“My earliest memories of Ashton Court include collecting conkers and sledging down the hill on a particularly snowy winters day. Fast forward to today and it’s still top of the list of places in Bristol. Although I hate the uphill, you can occasionally find me taking part in the Saturday morning Park Run.”
Oxfam Bookshop Clifton
Oxfam Bookshop in Clifton Village sells both books and music – photo: Martin Booth
“It’s just around the corner from the new Waterstones on Regent Street but you will definitely be happy to stay in Oxfam Bookshop on Princess Victoria Street in Clifton Village for everything book related. It’s so well-stocked, books are cheap and you know you’re giving money to an important cause. I’ll always remember the time I found Fleetwood Mac record Rumours in here for a fiver.”
Main photo: Safiya Bashir
Read more: Where are Bristol’s South Asian DJs?
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