IT’S the little, unexpected things that can sometimes make a meal, as I found when taking a friend out.
We decided on Henry’s, a small bar just off Union Street.
What it lacks in visibility, it makes up for with its warm attempt to keep you as a customer.
I went for the Cajun chicken (£7.25) – strips of chicken breast coated in spices. It was very tasty and well-cooked, with the coating nicely charred in places, while the chicken itself was surprisingly moist.
It was served with a mountain of freshly-cooked chips and the little touch – a pot of spiced mayonnaise that was both cooling and spiky – an excellent accompaniment.
The missus picked the special of Cullen skink (£3.50), soup that is simple, but so often done badly. Not this, though. Rich, creamy and full of potato and smoked fish, served with a large ciabatta, it was a meal in itself.
Our friend had a BLT on toasted ciabatta (£5.50), which was heaving with filling, and served with salad and the ultimate nice touch, homemade coleslaw.
I decided to avoid pudding, but couldn’t resist sneaking some of my missus’ tiramisu with ice-cream (£3.75).
Indulgent and sweet without being sickly, it was perfectly balanced. As was the bill, coming to a fair £35.55 including drinks.
The small things – the homemade touch, and service with a smile – go a long way.