Cove Bay Hotel: 15 Colsea Road, Cove, Aberdeen

MY LOON had just landed his dream job, so I decided to take him to the Cove Bay Hotel to celebrate.

It’s been almost two years since my last visit to the 200-year old hotel, which boasts its own ghost, former landlady Ruby Spark.

I must say that by the time the varied menu arrived, I'd forgotten all about Ruby.

I plumped for the beef fajitas (£11.25), while Ryan liked the sound of the Cullen Skink soup (£5.15), followed by a baked potato with beans and cheese (£7.25), but easy on the cheese.

The aroma of his soup tantalised me, so much so I couldn't resist a few dunks in with his uneaten bread roll. He confirmed the chunky soup was “really tasty”, and I couldn’t help but agree. My taste buds went into overdrive as I heard the sizzle of my hotplate and smelled the Cajun spices rise from the fajitas.

Although Ryan’s main was not a culinary masterpiece, he, like me, really enjoyed his meal.

With full tummies there was no point looking at the dessert menu, but we rounded things off with a cappuccino (£2.30) and a regular coffee (£1.99).

All in all, with our bill coming in at just under £30, I couldn’t help but think we’ll be back soon. Only next time, he’s definitely paying!