CHEF’SCHOICE

Alistair Craig, head chef at The Horseshoe in Eddleston near Peebles, picks six of his favourite places to eat

HAKATAYA, EDINBURGH

This restaurant, tucked away on Rose Street, is relatively new. It delivers delicious, authentic, fresh Japanese food for everyone, and boasts genuinely friendly service. 0131 629 3320, www.hakatayauk.com

GARDENER’S COTTAGE, EDINBURGH

Great food in an informal setting. The menu is posted on Twitter every day for lunch and dinner, taking advantage of ingredients when they’re at their best. 0131 558 1221, www.thegardenerscottage.co

BURGER MEATS BUN, EDINBURGH AND GLASGOW

My most recent discovery, recommended by friends. Everything is made in-house using top ingredients. Delicious burgers and triple-fried chips, all washed down with great beers from ice-cold glasses. Fantastic! 0131 556 7023 / 0141 353 6712, www.burger-meats-bun.co.uk

LOCH BAY SEAFOOD RESTAURANT, ISLE OF SKYE

Local seafood is the star of the show in this small restaurant run by David and Alison Wilkinson. Simple, delicious fish dishes, with scallops being my favourite. Great puddings and friendly service make for a very enjoyable, relaxed evening. 01470 592235, www.lochbay-seafood-restaurant.co.uk

TIMBERYARD, EDINBURGH

I like the space at Timberyard – it has a refreshing, cool, contemporary feel. The menu is interesting and uses great seasonal produce, with an interesting wine list to match. 0131 221 1222, www.timberyard.co

THE DEVIL’S ADVOCATE, EDINBURGH

I really like everything about this bar restaurant. It is a great venue, with a menu of simple, tasty dishes. The booths under the stairs are the perfect place to relax and try to work your way through the extensive whisky list. 0131 225 4465, www.devilsadvocateedinburgh.co.uk