CHEF’S CHOICE

Kirsten Gilmore, chef and owner of The Mountain Café in Aviemore, chooses six of her favourite restaurants

BLAIR ATHOLL WATERMILL & TEAROOM

A working mill serving outstanding breads, bagels, scones and home baking using their own flour and oats. I plan my trips down the A9 so I can nip in for a roast beef bagel and grab a loaf of crusty bread. www.blairathollwatermill.co.uk; 01796 481321

MONTEITHS, EDINBURGH

My husband and I stumbled across this funky cocktail bar and kitchen by accident. Spotting plates of sexy Scottish food going past, we decided to eat there. Its charming and laid back atmosphere offers a relaxed romantic night with exceptional food. www.monteithsrestaurant.co.uk; 0131 557 0330

POTTING SHED TEAROOM, INSHRIACH NURSERY, NEAR AVIEMORE

This quaint wee shed in an alpine plant nursery offers the best cream cakes in Scotland. Norwegian sponges that are as light as air, stuffed with delicious fillings and often smothered in cream or chocolate ganache. www.inshriachnursery.co.uk; 01540 651287

APPLECROSS INN, APPLECROSS

I always try to sneak away west before the summer season kicks off. Service is friendly and the food is awesome, with seafood coming in daily from local boats. You will often see local fisherman enjoying a dram at the bar. www.applecross.uk.com/inn; 01520 744262

SUTOR CREEK, CROMARTY

A cute wee place hidden away on the Black Isle with a wood-fired pizza oven. They always have really inventive specials. On my last visit I had an incredible bowl of soup made with local sorrel and a poached egg. www.sutorcreek.co.uk; 01381 600855

CAFÉZIQUE, GLASGOW

This buzzing West End café does the best brekky in Glasgow. The coffee is just as good as the softly cooked eggs with slabs of Stornoway black pudding. Swing next door to Delizique for some takeaway goodies on your way out. www.delizique.com; 0141 339 7180