Henry’s Bar Cafe: Exchequer Row, Aberdeen

MY PAL was on a flying visit and we decided to try a new pub for tea.

Henry’s Bar is on our way to the railway station and we were soon settled into one of its American diner-style booths.

Once the waitress had brought my coke (£1.50) and my friend’s pint of lager (£2.70), we scanned the menu and specials board. I’d had nachos on my mind since spying a happy pub-goer tuck into them earlier in the day, so we decided to share a plate to start (£4.45). They arrived with a mountain of melted cheese, and we were impressed by the fresh flavours of the home-made salsa and guacamole. However, we were disappointed when the waitress told us they were out of sour cream – it would have been good to know when we ordered.

For mains, my friend opted for a baked potato with brie and roasted peppers (£4.50). She thoroughly enjoyed the combination of flavours, but would have liked a larger helping of peppers to compliment the cheese. I couldn’t help stealing spoonful after spoonful of her delicious fresh coleslaw.

I went for my pub grub favourite from the specials board – scampi, chips and salad (£6.95). The helping was huge, and the scampi was full of flavour, if a little greasy.

But with speedy service, generous portions and a bill of around £20, we left happy.