The Best Scampi

We've had our first proper drive in the new baby two-seater and we're impressed. As I mentioned earlier, I'll post a major review in a month or two; however, the little coupé is very nippy and more comfortable, in many ways, than the Z4. The driving position is noticeably higher, with good all-round vision, a large windscreen and large side-windows. We have driven about eighty miles on an eighth of a tank I think.

Enough of that. We motored southwards, down the east coast of the Ards Peninsula and through all the little villages to our destination for a snack meal at the Quay's Restaurant in Portavogie, County Down. It was quite busy, judging by the number of vehicles. I inquired about a table and there was no problem; we were shown to a small table at a side window.

We ordered prawn cocktail, served on a plate as a main course; and scampi, which was served with a little bowl of fresh chips, a dressed side salad and home-made tartare sauce. I'm not writing a major review on this occasion, except to say that it was probably the best battered scampi I've eaten for thirty years. It seemed to be the real thing; and there was a decent salad too.

I sampled the Dowager's prawn cocktail - we shared the chips - and it was one of the best also. The prawns were succulent, fat and juicy; the salad and wheaten bread were good as well. I didn't scrutinize the wheaten bread: perhaps someone could confirm whether it was made on the premises?

The Classic Prawn cocktail was £5.95; the Portavogie Scampi, salad and chips £10.95. Including two fizzy apple juices, the bill amounted to a neat £20.60 and we left a £2 tip.

The inevitable conclusion is that the Quay's Restaurant serves the best battered scampi that I am aware of; unless there are any further nominations? Interestingly, this establishment is the Province's most easterly seafood restaurant and bar. We must remember to wave over to our cousins in Scotland the next time.