291 Byres Road, Glasgow (avenue-g.com, 0141 339 5336)

291 Byres Road, Glasgow (avenue-g.com, 0141 339 5336)

First taste

The decor may be white, grey and black inside and out but the welcome in Avenue G is anything but cool.

Opened three years ago, it's a small but efficient cafe which is known for its coffee, food and service as evidenced in the steady stream of customers who happily wait for tables. The spectacular salads, sandwiches, sharing platters and other savoury dishes they produce and present so stylishly demonstrate a commitment to showcasing the very best locally sourced ingredients.

One slice or two?

With a touch more panache than the average selection (both in terms of finish and taste) individual cakes include pear and ginger, lemon and pistachio and chocolate, orange and almond. Portuguese custard tarts, granola bars, scones and some very seductive-looking truffle topped brownies are also there to tempt you. Average price is £2.80 per cake.

Critic's choice

Admittedly it's not the prettiest bake on a slate plate but the Portuguese custard tarts will win your heart. Deep vanilla scented custard set to perfection in light, flaky pastry only goes to prove it's what's on the inside that counts.

catherine.lawson@heraldandtimes.co.uk

Twitter: @clcakecritic