Restaurant REVIEW

1 LOCATION

A five-minute walk from the promenade and just a couple of minutes from the town centre.

2 first Impressions

Bigger than it seems from the outside, with good use of the available space. Sleek and modern, but still homely. A well-stocked and impressivelooking bar is the first thing you see upon entering.

3 service

Happy and attentive staff who checked with the kitchen when we asked questions about ingredients in some of the dishes.

4 menu

A lovely selection, including breakfast, lunch and vegetarian/vegan menus. An emphasis on local and seasonal produce – always a good sign.

5 TASTE

The vegetable tempura starter had a light and crisp batter and the accompanying mango, pineapple and chilli sauce was beautiful, but the portion size really should have been larger. The cauliflower fritter was more of a soft breadcrumb burger. It was lovely and the cauliflower taste was subtler than expected. The borlotti and chickpea stew was nice, but could have done with more smoked paprika in the seasoning, while the pestotopped ciabatta was a strange accompaniment. The sage cake, which was like a burger made of stuffing, was tasty and rich, and the roast vegetables and new potatoes made it a hearty portion. The apple crumble was delicious, too.

6 price

Good value on the market menu with two courses at £12.50. A la carte is more expensive.

7 Ambience

Relaxed vibe, with nice lighting and demure colours. Despite being quite small, it doesn’t feel cramped.

8 something SPECIAL

The specials board is sure to offer up fresh twists on classics and there aren’t too many places where clootie dumpling is on the desserts menu.

9 TOILETS

Only one cubicle each for gentlemen and ladies, but spotless and modern, although small.

10 verdict

A sophisticated addition to Ayr’s restaurant scene which is worthy of return visits to further investigate the range of menus. 16/20