Busy bistro best in show

And it’s easy to see why they keep coming back as the friendly reception is not the only selling point.

A varied menu and extensive specials board gave even two relatively fussy vegetarians a fair few options to choose from.

I went for the grilled goats cheese salad for starters which came with a slice of toasted fresh bread and balsamic glaze drizzled over the warm goats cheese.

The presentation of the dish was impressive and the flavours were classic and well thought out.

The bistro was quite busy at the peak of lunch service but staff were attentive and nothing was too much trouble.

Next up was a pick from the specials board which changes every weekend. I had a bit of a dilemma as macaroni cheese is one of my all time favourite guilty pleasures and I did have to think twice about going for the cajun spiced butternut squash and roasted red pepper risotto.

But when it arrived, I knew I made the right choice. I’m not exaggerating when I say it was the most delicious risotto I have ever tasted.

Served with fresh home made garlic bread and a side dish of parmesan flakes, it was presented beautifully and tasted great.

I tried a little bit of the macaroni too, which was also lovely.

It’s clear to see that real pride is taken in thinking through everything from the weekly specials menu to how the dishes are presented.

All the food is fresh and made to order, even the chips are home made, which means you sometimes have to wait a little longer but I would have to argue that the wait is well worth it.

Quality is high on their priority list and after sampling just a couple of dishes it’s easy to say that it certainly pays off.

Local farmers in nearby Linlithgow supply some of the produce and a team of talented chefs make the most of what’s in season locally.

After chatting with the owner, Jill, I realised that the ‘piece de resistance’ is her afternoon tea which comes with a selection of fresh sandwiches, cakes and even a panna cotta desert.

The prosecco that goes with it is a welcome little treat as well.

She also opens for dinner on Thursday through to Saturday which partners well with the Hippodrome Cinema just along the road, for anyone who fancies dinner and a movie in the quaint little town of Bo’ness.

The Town Bistro is open for lunch 12pm - 3pm on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, and it opens at 10am for breakfast Thursday through to Saturday.

I’ll certainly be paying it another visit in future, the afternoon tea looks too good to miss and after a great experience over lunch, I have high expectations for the Town Bistro.