We have a teen and a tweenager in the house now. They’re big fans of dad’s chicken curry, and of course all the momos. Back in our Gloucester Green market days, when they were still toddling about, Yeshi always used to hold back a portion of each at the end of the day to keep them out of trouble while we packed down.

Now that they’re older, he spreads the love among their friends as well. Visitors to the house can expect superior snacks when they come by. This wins Yeshi all the brownie points, but he’s also an embarrassing dad like all the others.

When the weather is hot he’s known to pull out what’s sometimes called the Beijing bikini. This look, popular throughout most of Asia, involves rolling up the shirt to expose the belly. There’s a science behind this method of cooling down (and even a Wikipedia page about it), but our daughter in particular won’t hear it.

The other habit of dad’s that the kids find hard to bear is his fancy for passing the time of day with people that he doesn’t know. Back home in Tibet it’s normal to chat to strangers. This is how stuff gets done. Why stab about alone in the dark when the man or woman across the way may have all the answers and is probably willing to help you out as well?

Also, it just feels good to make small talk. We underestimate the positive impacts of our interactions with strangers, which can take us outside of our comfort zones and help us to see the world a little differently.

Added to all of this, if you’re ready to strike up conversation with someone by the side of the road you might just find the love of your life: this is what happened to me and Yeshi after all. If he hadn’t been so open, our kids would never be here. Perhaps they’ll grow into this particular embarrassing habit of his once they appreciate how far it has gone to giving them life.

I couldn’t find a picture of Yeshi in his Beijing bikini, so this week I’m leaving you with our Chef and Joe Wicks, the nation’s favourite PE teacher. We love that our work gives Yeshi plenty of opportunity to shoot the breeze with strangers – famous and new faces alike.

So you’re never taking Yeshi’s time when you pitch up for a chat. Just so that you know. Sorry kids.

We’re open all the usual hours this week, as follows:

Weds – Fri: 5-9.30pm (dinner only)
Saturday: 12-3 / 5-9.30pm
Sunday: 12-3 / 5-9pm

This week’s menu is up on the website – check it! Come by for take-away, dine-in or you can order home delivery through Deliveroo.

Our freezers are also packed with all the nutritious meals you don’t have time to make yourselves. Newsletter subscribers will enjoy a buy one get one free deal on some of these this week! If you’re in the market for TT discounts and freebies just subscribe to our weekly Substack to receive offers direct to your inbox.

Looking forward to seeing you all soon!

Julie and Yeshi

Opening hours this week:
Weds – Fri: 5-9.30pm
Saturday: 12-3pm 🥢 5-9.30pm
Sunday: 12-3pm 🥢 5-9pm
☏ 01865 499318

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