McGinty’s: Union Street, Aberdeen

TUCKING into some pub grub in the middle of an Old Firm game might not sound like the ideal setup for lunch with friends.

But despite the dull roar in the background, staff made our visit to McGinty’s so memorable we are sure to return.

With waitress service closer to what you would expect from a restaurant, they were polite, friendly and ever so efficient.

Formerly Frankenstein’s, the newest bar on Union Street is less dingy than its predecessor. There are big TV screens for the sports fans – and some tables even have their own telly for up-close viewing.

My girlfriends and I were more interested in a natter and some hearty food – and that’s what we got.

One pal tucked into a steaming, big portion of macaroni (£6.25) with a good helping of cheese still melting on top, while my beefsteak pie (£7.45) came with a lovely pastry crust and juicy chunks of meat. The standard boiled vegetables were nothing special but I can’t really complain as this is traditional pub fare done pretty well.

My other mates enjoyed a spicy bean burger (£6.50) and a brie and bacon panini (£4.95) – although my friend did think there was a little too much cranberry sauce, joking that it looked like a jam sandwich!

A few rounds of drinks and it came to the bargain price of £46.