Scone Spy: Our critic checks out Cafe Francoise on Glasgow’s Byres Road

It seemed the whole world and their dog was going for brunch in Glasgow’s west end last weekend.

My friend and I walked the length and breadth of Great Western Road, and most of the way down Byres Road, in search of a scone stop-off. Queues snaked out of cafe doors and round corners at every place we passed.

Our scone odyssey finally lead us to the door of French bistro Cafe Francoise where, thank the pastry gods, we spied a table for two and a pile of homebaked scones waiting to be devoured by yours truly.

Firstly though, I’d like to talk about the decor which, with pastel-coloured walls and ornate chandeliers, was so quintessentially French, we felt like we’d stepped inside a Parisian painting. The menu was equally traditional, with French favourites, including oven baked croissants with fillings such as mushroom and garlic with bechamel sauce, croque monsieur (a hot sandwich made with ham and cheese) and steak frites (grilled rump steak, garlic butter and French fries).

The devil on my shoulder was whispering about melted fromage but, as I am watching my waistline, I somehow mustered up the willpower to order the salade niçoise instead, and I’m glad I did. This was no soppy salad. Crunchy fresh beans, juicy olives, potatoes and crispy salad, tossed in a light dressing, and topped with salty anchovies, creamy eggs, and pan seared tuna steak, it was simply stunning. My companion was equally impressed with the roast beef sandwich which they declared “the best I’ve ever had”.

The French are, of course, famous for their patisserie and Cafe Francoise had a cabinet filled with mouthwatering gateaux and tarts but thankfully the humble scone still made an appearance.

I must admit the presentation fell short of expectations but it did not disappoint on taste. Very sweet compared to some, with a good raisin ratio, it was très bon indeed. Extra points for the delicious salty butter.

After a great cup of coffee, we returned to the cold, grimy streets of Glasgow once more but we both agreed, we enjoyed our little trip to Gay Paris!

Scone score

A sweet scone, delicious with the salty butter.

★★★