Authenticity and affordability – two things you’re guaranteed at Ristorante Teatro. Newly re-decorated and opposite King’s Theatre, this family-friendly diner has been serving fresh, locally sourced Italian and Scottish food for the last 30 years. Like all great Mediterranean diners, Ristorante Teatro knows how to welcome its customers – the hospitality here is naturally warm and welcoming. Light Italian music plays in the background, while smart, personable waiters see to your every need. My partner and I visited on a typically buzzing weeknight, and were delighted by the exceptional food on offer.

From the seasonal ŕ la carte menu, I started with the paté della casa (homemade chicken liver paté), and my partner had the capesante piccolo (Scottish king scallops). My paté was smooth and smoky while the scallops were juicy and well-seasoned. To follow, my main of misto griglia (the house speciality of chargrilled pork chop, mini fillet steak and chicken breast) was a meat lovers’ delight, with its herby, creamy side order of pearl barley risotto. My partner’s pollo al marsala (basil-and-tomato-stuffed chicken breast), I was informed, was bursting at the seams with fresh flavours. Ristorante Teatro will happily host private functions for up to 60 people, suiting all budgets. And don’t miss out on the live Italian background music nights on Tuesdays to Saturdays, which create a romantic atmosphere.