AFTER checking out the rare breeds at Doonies Farm on Aberdeen’s coast, all the sea air left my friend Barbara and I ravenous.
When she suggested lunch at the Cove Bay Hotel, I was happy to take her up on the offer.
I am loathe to admit, but it was my first visit to the 200-year-old hotel.
We were shown to our window seats in the cosy and quaint Smugglers lounge – which afforded us the most stunning sea view.
We settled in and ordered a lime and lemonade (£1.65), and a St. Clements (£1.65).
Barbara didn't need to ponder over the menu. She was having her usual, fish and chips (£7.20).
As it was a first for me, I took my time looking over the impressive menu but I eventually went for the fajitas (£7.95).
That decided. I was enthralled by Barbara’s wonderful story of the hotel’s friendly ghost, former landlady Ruby Spark, when I heard the sizzle of my hotplate approach.
My fajitas were the best I’ve ever eaten.
Slivers of steak and king prawns, marinated with Cajun spices, onion and peppers.
Barbara gave full marks to her fresh haddock, which overlapped her plate, and came served with chips, peas, and fresh salad.
With no room for dessert, we finally wrapped up our lovely afternoon with coffee (£1.50), and the rest of the ghost story.