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The undercover cafe critic unity Grill, 37 sandgate, ayr

WHEN visitors pass through Ayr’s seaside streets, most will stop at a local chippy, then eat their battered fish or poke of chips while wandering along the town’s pretty beachfront.

But when I happened to be in Ayrshire this week, I opted to satisfy my sweet tooth at Unity Grill – a place, I soon found, you aren’t likely to feel guilty about indulging.

The small café doesn’t just serve up warm, hearty food to hungry punters, but is also run as a social enterprise, donating 100% of its profits to fighting food poverty.

What’s more, locals living on the breadline or struggling to make ends meet can also donate their time in lieu of paying for their meal, volunteering to wait tables, make coffees and serve behind the counter in exchange for food and a soft drink.

Taking a seat at the back of the room, I couldn’t help but notice how light, airy and bright the eatery felt.

Tall, plate glass windows let sunshine flood on to the rustic tables and mismatched chairs that make up the modern yet warm décor – think trendy exposed bulbs hanging from the ceiling, un-varnished wood, and planters boasting the café’s motto, “Eat well, do good”.

On the lunchtime menu there’s a good selection of meat, vegetarian and even vegan dishes, including