Deep in Glasgow’s business district, nearly all the grand former building societies, mutual associations and insurance offices have been transformed into eateries and drinkeries. This particular one used to be Leonardo’s. It’s now a large, cheery office-lunch and after-work joint, with plenty of inhibition-removing cocktails and interesting beers. The menu is modern Mediterranean delivered with flair and care. Who could resist the parmesan and caramelised onion doughnut for starters? You don’t get them in Greggs.
The Apple Inn, 89 Portland Street, Troon, 01292 318 819, www.costley-hotels.co.uk
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Lots of fish, plenty of mashed potatoes, delightfully old-fashioned desserts . . . the Apple Inn knows what the sedate denizens of the Ayrshire coast want when they venture out for a meal. They want rich and they want luscious — we’re talking cream, cheese and extra bacon on top — and owner Bill Costley makes sure they get it. Out-of-towners have been known to quibble over some of the portion sizes, but when they see the out-of-town-sized bill, they tend to shut up.
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Olive Branch, 91 Broughton Street, Edinburgh, 0131 557 8589, www.theolivebranchscotland.co.uk
This corner of trendy Broughton Street has seen a number of restaurants, bistros and cafes come and go in relatively quick succession, but the most recent arrival looks like being a keeper. Bright and airy, with pavement seating, Olive Branch’s breakfast and brunch menu includes a bacon and mushroom sandwich — an excellent cure for a night of overindulgence — or healthier options, such as muesli with banana and yoghurt. Fear not if you can’t get out of bed before noon, you’ll still be in time for the evening menu which includes sausage, mash and bean cassoulet, and sea bream with new potatoes, spinach and lavender beurre rouge.