The Archibald Simpson: 5 Castle Street, Aberdeen

THERE are not many places in the heart of the city centre that can boast two meals for less than £10. The Archibald Simpson is a bustling hive of activity where you have two options.

One is to sit in the main body of the bar and watch the throng of punters come and go as you eat.

Alternatively, there are side booths where you can have a quiet meal at your leisure.

Either way, the food on offer is top-notch for the price. I opted for the vegetarian sausages with chips and beans. The sausages were grilled golden brown and melted in my mouth. Add in a large helping of chunky chips smothered with beans – all for £3.10.

My friend plumped for the Scotch pie meal which again came with chips.

The pie was succulent and packed full of meat.

Thick tasty gravy was also provided. At only £3.30 it packed a lot of taste and value for the price. Add in a diet coke (£1.65) and a large Americano coffee (£1.39) and the bill came to a recession-busting £9.44.

Fantastic value, tasty food and a vibrant, friendly atmosphere. What more could you ask for less than a tenner?