Off The Wall

Right in the heart of touristy Edinburgh, up a narrow stair on the Royal Mile, Off the Wall is a destination restaurant that has won plaudits for the excellence of its food. Chef-owner David Anderson's aim is to use the finest of Scottish, French and Italian seasonal ingredients to produce clean, simple dishes. He succeeds. The relaxed, informal dining room in colours of oatmeal and claret has leaded glass windows that give onto the Royal Mile. Dishes might include starter of seared scallops with Serrano ham, pickled cucumber and chilli cream sauce, main course of saddle of lamb with baby spinach, ragout of carrots and dauphinoise potato with lamb jus, and desserts meringue with cream and fresh mango and raspberry coulis. Chef's seven-course tasting menu, too. Superb service.