Mel Boy’s has been tucked into the red sandstone walls around the Art College for years. I can’t quite fathom why it didn’t occur to me to pay it a visit, before today.

Exterior

It’s an old adage that if a restaurant is full of people from that neck of the woods (Chinese people in a Chinese restaurant, for example), it must be a good, authentic place. I’m often tickled by the notion of how this might apply to Scottish places.

Mel Boy’s was populated solely by folks from the building trade, most of whom seemed to be ordering fried egg rolls. Was this the sign that it was a great “authentic” breakfast roll place? To an extent, the answer was yes.

Bacon and black pudding roll

A cramped little takeaway, the place clearly does a roaring trade at breakfast time, as their stock of pre-prepared sausages, bacon rashers and other items was considerable. The popular fried eggs were prepared to order.

I kept things simple with a “doubler” roll featuring bacon and black pudding. This was quickly delivered by the counter woman, who had a fine line in banter with the waiting punters. I was soon on my way, eating as I walked.

The roll proved to be plentifully stocked, with two good slices of black pudding and a profusion of bacon. It wasn’t the best quality I’ve sampled, but it was a filling and enjoyable item, nevertheless.

So overall, I enjoyed my visit to Mel Boy’s. It’s a characterful little place, and their breakfast rolls are generous. I’d be happy to pop back, next time I have a large breakfast appetite.

Scores
Blythe scores Mel Boy’s
3.5/5 for food
3/5 for presentation
2.5/5 for setting
3/5 for service
giving an overall 12/20

I ate: bacon and black pudding roll

I wore: blue and red tie

Total bill: £2.20