I am often filled with scepticism when reading that ubiquitous footnote on a menu; 'all our dishes rely upon fresh produce'. At MacCallum’s Oyster Bar however, there is no such footnote – the freshness of the fish is a given. This established restaurant is situated on the furthest stretch of the harbour, with walls decorated with maritime sketches and large windows which provide a view of the sea (and the occasional seal) for diners.

The well-thought-out menu is complemented by tempting specials. A starter of seared scallops with black pudding in Calvados butter is presented without pretension, allowing the light flavour of the scallops to resonate. For mains, dishes such as lemon sole grilled in a butter and caper sauce and delicate sea bass and crab cake showered in a spiced Oriental sauce illustrate the kitchen’s range. A dessert of sweet summer berries with sharp raspberry sorbet provides an irresistible ending.

Pop next door to The Wee Hurrie (open from noon until 8pm every Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday), which serves up reasonably priced, cooked-to-order fresh seafood to take away – perhaps take your package of deliciousness and head home, or sit and watch the boats in Troon Harbour. MacCallum’s is fast becoming ‘the’ place to sample the finest fresh seafood in Ayrshire – I wish it was my little secret.