The Mains of Drum: Drumoak

I LOVE visiting garden centres when I have a day off – especially ones with cafes.

So when my husband told me about a new one – with a restaurant – I insisted we pay a visit.

And if what was inside was as impressive as the exterior, I knew I was in for a real treat at The Mains of Drum.

After oohing and ahhing at the range of plants and “fancy stuff”, our rumbling tums led us upstairs to the large restaurant area which was stylish and very attractive.

My husband chose the soup and sandwich combo (£6.50). His large bowl of delicious courgette and brie soup was creamy and packed with flavour. The attractively presented plate of coronation chicken sandwiches, which were overflowing with a yummy filling, were every bit as good and such a generous portion that he struggled to finish it off.

I opted for the chicken Caesar salad (£6.95) – my favourite but a dish I’ve often been let down by. Not on this occasion. It was, without doubt, the best and most authentic chicken Caesar salad I’ve had in a long time. It was perfect: from the juicy slices of chicken and chunks of smoky ham to the large flakes of parmesan, salty anchovies, plump olives and delicious dressing. I cleared my huge helping with relish.

Stuffed full, we enjoyed a pot of tea for two (£3.20) as we admired the lovely views over Deeside from the open French windows.