So much more sophisticated-sounding than the Flat, this upper Tollcross restaurant does a lovely line in cool minimalism. Although ambience wins out over visibility when it comes to reading the menu, the interior is a delightfully soothing blend of dim lighting and white wood. The menu loves mixing up flavours and textures — from north African spiced lamb meatballs with spicy merguez sausage to Thai chicken salad with pineapple and prawns — and the mammoth portions lend themselves well to a fun pick-and-mix-style tasting session.
A Room in the Town, Howe Street, Edinburgh, 0131 225 8204
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They don’t do stuffy or swanky at this New Town Scottish bistro. It’s all about being flexible and making everyone feel relaxed rather than showing off. There’s a consistently homely, welcoming vibe to the venue — which means dress codes and snobbish wine lists are out and BYOB is in. The menu is traditional with a fun edge. There’s Cullen Skink with coconut and chilli for starters or deliciously memorable mains like haggis crusted halibut with pesto or chicken with apricot and asparagus. Those exercising low-carb caution should look elsewhere for dessert — everyone else can get stuck into stodgy favourites like banoffee or pecan pie with double cream.
The Town House, East Port, Dunfermline, 01383 432 282
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Diane and Paul Brown are hell-bent on creating a cosy environment in this smart split-level restaurant just off the High Street in Dunfermline. They do their best to make it seem like a chic night in — with a colourful menu, a curvy bar perfect for slouching about at with a martini and, as the cool autumnal nights draw in, they will be running jazz evenings, singles nights and wine tastings. Exclusive dinner parties can also be arranged for those occasions when someone else’s home from home seems infinitely more attractive.