If you want to try some traditional Scottish food but don't particularly fancy scoffing down a deep-fried mars bar, Howies is an excellent option. Specialising in contemporary Scottish food, the menu changes monthly and offers international flavours from fresh local produce. I would reccommend "pan seared breast of duckling with steamed Chinese bok choi and a honey, soy and kaffir lime glaze". The prices are extremely reasonable - very good value for good food and for the whole restaurant experience. If you have room left for dessert please choose the Banoffi Pie - it will forever change the way you see bananas and desserts for life!
Parrots
(200m away)
This restaurant is, as the name might reveal, absolutely mad about parrots. There are parrots in all shapes and sizes: teddy parrots; parrot paintings; parrots photos and parrot mosaics. Thankfully though, Parrot is not on the menu but you will find a parrot hand-doll on your table just in case you are in a playful mood. This is one of those few restaurants where you can have a three-course meal with wine and still come away with change from £20. The food is simple and well made with both traditional Scottish and more spicy dishes. They also have an excellent vegetarian selection. Best of all though are the deserts called Macaws, they consist of a massive muffin with ice cream, fruit and other devilish goodies plus a glass of liqueur...It's to die for!!!
Montpeliers
(150m away)
Montpeliers is a well-kept secret of Bruntsfield. This modern and stylish restaurant and bar is a firm favourite of the locals in Bruntsfield. Although the place looks very high-class you don't have to be a millionaire to eat here. There's both a day and an evening menu with the evening menu being a bit more fancy and expensive. If you're on a budget it's reccommended going for lunch. There's an extensive menu of tastefully presented food. Whatever you order, make sure sure you try the sweetpotato wedges. And don't miss taking a trip to the classy and clean bathrooms - always proof of a good restaurant!!!
