In the midst of the first lockdown, I moved across the city to what has been named the "eighth-coolest neighbourhood in the world" - Dennistoun.

Located in the heart of the East End of Glasgow and a walkable distance from the city centre, Dennistoun feels like a cosy community unto itself, without being isolated from the wider buzz of Glasgow.

Some of the best brunch spots in the city are located in Dennistoun. Scran on Alexandra Parade serve up a mouthwatering menu, priding themselves on "simple food, cooked well". Tibo Bistro on Duke Street too have a range of delectable offerings, alongside hosting open mic-nights, exhibitions and filming projects to help promote artists and give back to the community. Mesa, Strange Brew's sister café, is perfect for a Sunday brunch with their eclectic menu in a laid back space. And if you're vegan, you'll definitely want to head to Rawnchy - their raw vegan cakes are as delicious as they are stunning.

If you like Italian cuisine, you’re in luck as Dennistoun is home to some of the best Italian spots in Glasgow. The well-loved Celinos on Alexandra Parade is a must-visit, serving up authentic Italian cuisine and a fully stocked Italian delicatessen. Amore too is located on Alexandra Parade and is an essential spot to check out, serving up delicious, fresh Italian cuisine in a gorgeous setting. Coia's Cafe too is a much frequented eatery - make sure to try their homemade ice-cream! 

If you fancy a drink, there’s a whole range of characteristic and unique pubs to take your pick from. Redmonds serve up an enviable variety of craft beers amongst their wide range of drink offerings - and if you’re unsure what to go for, their friendly staff are sure to help you out. A cosy pub with a modern feel, make sure to pop in on Wednesdays for their pub quiz, and the weekend for their DJ sets.

Nearby on Duke Street, the Palais is the perfect place to go for post-work drinks - also offering up a menu in traditional pub style made with all local produce. 

And of course, I couldn’t mention the range of pubs without including the fact that Dennistoun is home to two major breweries - both the Tennents factory (among Scotland’s oldest ongoing businesses) and Drygate brasserie, bar and brewery. 

For a break from it all, Alexandra Park is one of Glasgow’s underrated gems, and is the perfect place to relax on a summer’s day and watch the world go by. It’s also home to the beloved swans of Alexandra Parade, who are much loved by the community.

While positive attention is welcomed, there is admittedly a risk that when a location is started to be seen as “cool”, that gentrification can rapidly follow: with rent prices and amenities rising to the point that locals residents are priced out of their homes.

However, community groups such as tenants union Living Rent Dennistoun exist, uniting residents across generations to take collective action against sky-rocketing rents, uncleaned streets and closes and unscrupulous landlords. 

In a sense, it goes to show - while Dennistoun is a locale that has undergone many changes throughout the years, what undoubtedly remains is a sense of community spirit and pride amongst residents new and old, that is unwavering.