The Guildford Arms dates back to the 1890s and boasts an elaborately carved bar and luxurious Jacobean-style ceiling, both of which make the pub truly unique. The Gallery Restaurant is set on a mezzanine above the main bar and just like its sister restaurant, Above at The Abbotsford, it has real character. The eating area is plush and classy, with black and white leather seats and flickering candles, and offers an intimate dining experience.

When it comes to the food, the Gallery Restaurant certainly lives up to its impressive setting. Starters include everything from a hearty bowl of mussels to sumptuous chicken liver parfait with chilli jam and toasted brioche. Mains are equally generous and include treats like coq au vin with Stornoway black pudding, grilled sea bass with crispy smoked bacon and roasted red pepper sauce, fillet steak medallions with tarragon butter and risotto of mixed vegetables with basil and mascarpone. For those who fancy true meaty indulgence, there is also a range of steaks and lamb cutlets available from the chargrill. Anyone with room left for dessert can sample sweet delights such as raspberry pannacotta, banoffee tart and sticky toffee pudding. A great selection of Scottish cheese is also available.

It seems this restaurant has everything – a cosy bar area, an elegant dining room and, most importantly, fine food and drink. It’s a gem in the heart of Edinburgh.