Damascus Drum — Restaurant in Scotland

We stopped in here for some lunch whilst in Hawick. It’s a small little bookstore/cafe. Thankfully the 4 of us managed to squeeze in with our buggy and dog. They offer salads, mezes, soup, filled bagels and toasties and daily specials. They also have a selection of sweet treats. Cafe is mostly veggie/vegan but they do offer some meat options. They prioritise local produce which is always a positive. According to their website, they only cook in virgin olive oil and butter which was nice to read and shows that they are not sacrificing quality and health for cheap, highly refined, deodorised, chemically filled alternatives. I went with a salmon and cream cheese bagel and the soup. Both of which were quite nice. I believe it was a broccoli and Stilton soup which I’ve never had before but would certainly have again. I also had a cake which was lovely. The staff were pleasant enough but not that conversational. I am not sure if there is a language barrier which may explain the lack of chat. It’s mostly old books they have but I did see a few newer ones. We didn’t end up buying any but I did have a skim through...

One of a kind. Small, a bookshop/library with food! Recent extension of hours from 3pm to 5 (I'll check if I'm wrong). A small selection of edibles on offer, but always a pleasure to sample the delights, and contrary to other establishments, (well behaved) dog friendly. Even children (same criteria applies)! Can get a little busy lunchtimes, but I've never had to wait. Highly recommended, though if you are a book lover hide the wallet, as temptation is all to prevalent whilst sampling the Guinness cake. Regular readers will know I'm a bit of a coffee snob, and this place lives up to my...

3 of us dining, 2 were vegan, although they were catered for, choice was very limited, very large portion though, the large platter of meze was delightful, as was the pastrami special panini. The cafe itself is very relaxed, hundreds of books to brouse and read / buy, some lovely rugs to buy also, chess to play if you so choose. Our first visit will not be our last, just a broader vegan choice is needed, myself being a meat eater I do also really enjoy plant based meals, as do others I am sure. Vegan meals aren't just...