Polly’s Pantry
Aberdonagallery, Forestmill, Clackmannanshire
Getting lost down the twisting country roads of Clackmannanshire and taking in its beautiful countryside can be a fun way to spend a Saturday morning but, as my stomach began to growl, my enthusiasm began to wane. It was time for a scone, and fast.
As we rumbled round a green field filled with sweet-looking miniature ponies, we saw a sign ahead that mercifully put an end to our wanderings – a placard attached to a rickety fence that read: “Polly’s Pantry.”
Alas, upon entering the picturesque converted farm building, we saw that, while this gem might be hidden, it was anything but a well-kept secret. It was absolutely packed with customers, and we were worried that us wannabe lunchers would be turned away at the door.
Luckily, the friendly staff managed to squeeze us in. Despite its evident popularity, the converted loft cafe did not feel cramped. With plenty of light coming in from the skylights and beautiful local art on the walls, the ambiance was warm, welcoming and cosy, when it could have easily have felt hectic, crowded and claustrophobic.
The dishes on the lunch menu were all made up of hearty Scottish ingredients, but each had their own cool artisanal twist.
My ham and cheddar flatbread was simple enough, but fine ingredients and an interesting use of fruit chutneys gave it an extra special twist.
After that, we moved on to the ultimate test: the all-important scone. Opting to keep it simple, we ordered two plain scones with jam and cream. They were a perfect blend of density and airiness, and were extremely scrumptious. As was the homemade jam, available to buy and take home in the farm shop below. I even almost came to fisticuffs with Mrs Scone Spy over the shared pot of delicious clotted cream.
Filled to burst, we managed a quick turn around the farmshop before we headed out, and bought a pot of locally made honey. Like the rest of our trip, our visit to the pantry it was wonderfully sweet, with plenty of country charm.
Scone score A magical blend of density and airiness.