Palmerstons — Restaurant in Scotland

This was my first time having lunch here. It was good quality produce. But, it was odd at around 12 they'd already run out of sultana scones, offering rock buns as alternatives "as they're pretty much the same, just a bit sweeter." I had a cheese and ham salad, which is sold as a ploughman's lunch. It comes with a choice of cheddar, ham or brie (you can have 2 of the 3, that was made VERY clear by the person taking the order). The menu did not list it includes a salad or calesalaw, which isn't really a ploughman's lunch). I only opted for this as only open sandwiches were on the menu, but I noticed other customers got sandwiches. At no point were we asked if everything was okay with our food or if we wanted anything else. Nor were we offered water for our dog, yet every other table received these questions where appropriate. I think I'll still to tea and cake if I'm here again (this has been my previous...

Service was really poor, server just looked like she didn't want to be there. Asked if the 'famous hot chocolate' had milk in it and was met with a blank expression. After checking with colleagues I was told 'we've no idea' despite this being an allergen. Ordered a flavoured coffee instead which had too much syrup added and was sickly sweet.

Went to the counter to pay and was ignored by all the staff for ages until I had to ask if someone could serve me.

The place was rammed and as folk could see we were about to leave we offered them our seats, helping prevent a jam at the door. A different server made her disapproval very clear and instead of asking if everything had been ok with our food etc. when I eventually got to pay, just ranted about why people need to wait to be seated...very...

Haven't been to Palmerston's for about 2 years, but took a friend today. I was raving about it to her, saying what a lovely place it's always been, but I was disappointed today. Something has changed, and it wasn't as nice as it used to be. The staff are still friendly and polite, but there were very few options for cakes, which was a highlight before. Also instead of what used to be quality music, it was just a radio station blaring out, the same as so many other cafes. We may be caught it on an off day, but it was disappointing, especially for my visiting friend. Although the food and drinks of of good quality, I think they are a bit expensive for what you get. UPDATE: this wasn't a one off experience. I went again a couple of weeks ago, and it was the same....