1. Castle Terrace
Nestled in the quiet streets beneath Edinburgh Castle, this modern British eatery is brought to diners by the team behind renowned Edinburgh restaurant The Kitchin. At Castle Terrace, which has made its home in a smart Georgian townhouse, chef patron Dominic Jack takes the helm, presenting diners with the freshest Scottish produce prepared according to French culinary techniques—Jack previously worked in some of Europe’s finest restaurants. There are delectable twists, too, and presentation is distinctive. The signature tartare of Shetland salmon is served sushi style, accompanied by soy sauce jelly and wasabi ice cream, as dazzling on the plate as it is to taste for the contrasts in colour, texture and flavour. For main courses, an outstanding and flavourful hampe of Scottish beef continues the Asian theme in the inspiration for its sauce while the Scottish borders hare with foie gras is a decadent dish that combines smooth liver, wild, gamey meat and extremely rich jus to melt on the tongue. Dessert is masterful and the perfect way to close a culinary feat combining balance and flair.
33/35 Castle Terrace, Edinburgh, EH1 2EL; +44 131 229 1222; www.castleterracerestaurant.com