Stew beauty
The undercover cafe critic
Scone Spy relishes a culinary blast from the past.
RAINlashes the car windscreen with such ferocity the wipers can barely keep up. When I pull into the car park of the Garlogie Inn I struggle to open the door against the buffeting wind. Sitting at the side of the B9119 Aberdeen to Tarland road, this traditional whitewashed hostelry overlooks breathtaking Aberdeenshire countryside and from the roadside it appears warm and inviting. I’m guessing though that it will be near-empty, given the weather and the fact this is only just past noon on a workday Thursday.
But, crossing the threshold, it’s clear that this place is loved by regulars and passing trade alike who are here in huge number with only a few tables free. The place is buzzing with diners in for a late morning coffee or an early lunch. Under a beamed ceiling, with the wind whipping leaded windows and candles flickering in little glass lanterns, I settle into a seat. On the table opposite an elderly gent tips his hat at me and smiles. Grateful for a friendly face on a dreich day, I nod an acknowledgement. Seconds later a waitress appears at my shoulder with a menu.
“What a day!” she says, handing me a menu and drawing my attention to the options on the blackboard. “I’m only here for a cup of
tea and a scone,” I say weakly until, glancing at the board, I spot my all-time favourite – stew with dumplings and mash. Immediately I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, the very same dish simmering on the stove. I’m swept by a nostalgia so strong I could almost weep.
I can’t help but have lunch and decide to follow with a scone and a cup of tea. “Good idea,” my kindly waitress agrees, and she’s off to place the order. I see a son treating his elderly parents to lunch, while nearby a group of young ladies have gathered for a catch-up and a coffee.
I feel warm, welcome and content, and the stew doesn’t disappoint. It’s a hearty and tasty offering on a blustery winter’s day.
But the scone is the crowning glory of this impromptu meal. On this day The Garlogie was offering three choices, apple and cinnamon, plain or cheese. I went for the apple and cinnamon. It was huge, with a slightly crisp exterior, but light and crumbly inside and absolutely delicious. Better still, it was served warm with lashings of butter and jam – scrumptious! Owners John and Thelma Quinn have been running the Garlogie Inn for 32 years having bought and refurbished it in 1986.
They say they pride themselves on their great service, delicious home-cooked food and relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Scone Spy can vouch for that!