Scone Spy: Our cafe critic pays a visit to Paolozzi’s Kitchen at the Scottish Gallery Of Modern Art

Lots of tempting treats on the cafe counter

I found the perfect antidote to the January blues this week – a trip to the Scottish Gallery Of Modern Art.

It’s been years since my last visit and I was tempted back by the chance to see one of my favourite movies, up close and personal.

The exhibition Ray Harryhausen: Titan Of Cinema, which runs until February 20, charts the life and pioneering work of the late, great special effects superstar whose films included Jason And The Argonauts and Clash Of The Titans, the latter of which I found utterly terrifying and enthralling on its release.

Due to Covid restrictions we had to book a slot which meant it wasn’t overcrowded. Over two hours, and six rooms, I was transported back in time as we discovered how Harryhausen brought mythical beasts such as Pegasus, the flying horse, and the Kraken sea monster to life.

The finale came in the green screen projector room where we got to fight the skeleton army from The Argonauts. It’s one of the more unusual ways to work up an appetite. Paolozzi’s Kitchen, located next to the gift shop, is far too convenient to pass by so we decided to stay for a bite to eat.

The café is named after pop artist Eduardo Paolozzi whose sculpture of the Roman god of fire dwarfs everything in the room. Sitting next to his giant feet gives you the feeling of being part of an exhibit.

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The menu is select, offering a choice of soup or quiche of the day, and a selection of filled flatbread and focaccia. My beady eye was immediately drawn to the counter which offered a tempting array of cakes and freshly baked scones.

I enjoyed my curry, parsnip and coriander soup, which was flavoursome and nicely spiced, while my dining companion said his mozzarella, pesto and pepper quiche was tasty, with perfect shortcrust pastry.

But what of the scones? There were two varieties: fruit or cheese and mustard. I chose the sweet option and it ticked all the right boxes. Big enough to share, packed with sultanas with a crunchy texture on the outside, and doughy middle. In fact, you might say it was a work of art.