Barony Bites, 50 Main Street, West Kilbride (01294 823822)

Barony Bites, 50 Main Street, West Kilbride (01294 823822)

First taste

Opened in 2011, Barony Bites is a tasteful extension to The Barony Centre, a sumptuous converted church. With a minimalist art and craft gallery in what was once a place of worship, the full grandeur of the architectural space can be appreciated before enjoying a light snack or home baking (the celery soup and goats' cheese and red pepper toasties are heartily recommended). Beautiful original sandstone features line one side of the cafe while the other side is glass, looking out over a pretty decking area where you can relax beside a few weatherbeaten gravestones.

One slice or two?

A regularly changing selection of home baking fills the small cake counter. Brownies, bakewell tart (normal and gluten-free), coffee cake, coconut macaroons, scones, carrot cake and fruit loaf are typical of the options available each day. The average price is £2.50 per slice.

Critic's choice

The tea and cherry loaf is reminiscent of the kind of straight-out-of-the-oven treat your gran used to make. Chunky cherries, plump sultanas and a hint of mixed spice make it just the thing for a cold autumn day.

catherine.lawson@heraldandtimes.co.uk

Twitter: @clcakecritic