United Kingdom

Glasgow

Cafe

Studio Sadeo’s founder, Ashley Mi Ki Mak, maps out the independent businesses you should support in Scotland's largest city.

Mak is a DJ, project director and creative producer who, aside from founding the collectors store Studio Sadeo, has worked across various roles in the music industry. Born in Glasgow, Mak spontaneously moved to London at the age of 18 and currently splits her time between Hong Kong and London. Within the music industry, Ashley has worked as an A&R and music promoter, and headed up global events for 

. Aside from music, she later launched her own company Studio Sadeo. You may also recognise the selector from her regular NTS show, where, each month, she spins slow jams, Balearic, classic R&B, footwork and more.

Independent culture is a strand of the arts that Mak knows well, and for Studio Sadeo's guide the founder broadens her scope on independent businesses, listing out the coffee and food spots you should visit in Glasgow.

My local spot and an off-grid gem owned by my pal Paul, who’s full of passion and incredible knowledge. He makes coffee machines, and grows and roasts his own beans. I get schooled every time I come in and I love it.

A quick 15 minutes from my studio is the famous Barras Market. We’re not here to shop for treasure but for my favourite doughnuts: six sugar donuts for £3.50.

On the other side of town is Ottoman Coffee House. Probably one of the most unique spots in Glasgow that isn’t so well-known. It’s run by two brothers – Imran and Irfan [Akhtar] – and sits in the Glasgow Society of Musicians building. I’d recommend getting the mixed grill and Kyoto drip coffee.

Best pizza in Glasgow without a doubt. It’s got a small menu but everything is next level.

Right round the corner is Crownpoint Studios where Sadeo is based. We’ve got two floors of incredible space and light. We really love how industrial this area is, it’s safe and a fun spot to be in.

Alfie Coffee

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