I was sad to hear that The Clock had closed down, a few months ago, but as mentioned in our Thai Kitchen write-up, there nearly always seems to be a willing next victim to take on the challenge. In the case of The Clock, it has been replaced by something called The Clock, which though not unexpected and somewhat helpful, does comes with its confusions.
Exterior
The building, on the corner of Bernard Street and The Shore has a big clock on top, so it seems only sensible for any cafe occupying the premises to use that name. The second-order confusion comes from the fact that this is the third branch of the “Clock Cafe & Bistro”, with other branches to be found in Dalry and Morningside. So, do we have all our clocks in order? Then let us begin.
Upon arrival, it’s fair to say that the change was striking. The previous incarnation was quite an open space, mainly aiming at takeaway trade, but this has many more seats and their menu is much more focussed on customers sitting in.
Roll
One alarming sight on their counter selection was that of pre-packed triangular sandwiches. There are some great sandwich purveyors, nearby, in the shape of Domenico’s and The Shore Deli, so they stand no chance of competing with such a flimsy sandwich approach.
Their breakfast menu looked entirely better, though, so given my visit was an early morning one, it was to that part of the menu that I turned my attention.
Interior
From a wide selection of breakfast options, I chose the haggis and scrambled egg roll, accompanying it with espresso. The coffee arrived promptly and was fine.
The roll was packed with filling, with two good slices of haggis and a good heap of eggs, encased in a morning roll. It had an impressive weight to it, which I think may have proved slightly challenging for on-the-hoof consumption, as I have a feeling that filling would have wandered out of the sides, rather too readily. I was safely seated, though, so revelled in the substantial goodness. The eggs were under-seasoned, but the flavour pop from the haggis more than compensated. It was an enjoyable eat.
So overall, I enjoyed my visit to The Clock, in its new incarnation. They served me a tasty breakfast, in smart surroundings. Service was quick and friendly, too. You should pop in and say hello, next time you’re looking for a relaxing, informal sit-in, in the neighbourhood.
Scores
Blythe scores The Clock
3.5/5 for food
3/5 for presentation
3.5/5 for setting
3.5/5 for service
giving an overall 13.5/20
I ate: scrambled egg and haggis roll
I drank: espresso
I wore: brown brogues
Total bill: £4
