Broadstraik Inn: Elrick, Westhill

AUTUMN colours may still be clinging to the trees, but the hubby and I were on the hunt for some winter comfort food when we slipped inside the Broadstraik Inn.

Tucked into a cosy window seat, my other half opted for a cup of Scotch broth (£3.50) before attempting to tackle a massive steak pie (£9.95).

The grilled North Sea fish mornay (£9.95) sounded like the perfect warming treat to help me forget the dipping mercury levels outside.

I usually find Scotch broth a bit boring, but chunky carrots and flavourful lentils gave hubby’s soup a delectable rustic edge I could hardly resist. I found myself stealing bites off his plate again when our mains made it to the table. Light, buttery puff pastry topped tender chunks of steak steeped in rich gravy. Coupled with mounds of creamy mash and peas, the whole creation looked and tasted like it came straight out of my granny’s oven. On my own plate, the fish was moist, flaky and very fresh. The sizeable portion was swimming in a creamy cheese sauce, which was equal parts sharp and tangy. A sprinkling of chives and spring onions proved the perfect topping for my helping of buttery mash.

We washed the lunch down with a can of Coke (£1.70) and a bottle of pear cider (£3.60), and were well prepared for the chilly outdoors once more.