Monkey House: Union Street, Aberdeen

A MEAL in a monkey house might not sound like your idea of good eating.

But, mercifully, this Union Street bar doesn't live up to its rather colourful name.

After being driven bananas by the shops, all my mate and I wanted was a nice seat and some fine food.

With the first part seen to I decided on the nachos (£3.95) to start.

With the spicy chicken strips and cheese covering the tortillas, it was a solid effort if a little on the small side.

My mate opted for the potato skins (£3.95) which came loaded with sour cream. Slightly crispy on the outside but still fluffy in the middle, they looked good and he quickly demolished them.

I’d missed out on Burns Night, so I had to go for the haggis, neeps and tatties (£7.95) for my main course. It’s a staple of pubs across the country and the Monkey House’s version certainly didn’t disappoint.

The haggis was pleasantly spicy and the generous portion of whisky gravy added a real kick to the potato and turnip mix.

My friend was all haggised out so he plumped for another pub favourite – steak and ale pie (£7.95).

And he was chuffed with his choice with the melt-in-the-mouth beef drowning in a thick, rich sauce with a heap of chunky chips.

A slap-up meal for £23.80 – and no monkey business.