The insider’s guide to eating out in Edinburgh

Glaswegians used to say Edinburgh was “all fur coat and no knickers”. Its true there are some pretentious restaurants, but Auld Reekie’s eateries can be just as cosmopolitan, relaxed, and rewarding as Glasgow’s. The First Post's top five have been chosen for atmosphere and good value as much as for good food. All have been nominated by people who live and work in the city. All prices are per person.

The Rainbow Arch8 Morrison St
The city’s only dim sum specialist. On Sundays, find owner Henry Tse holding court to the city’s Chinese community. Friendly staff will give excellent advice, if asked. Steamed razor clams a seasonal treat.
Evening meal of 2 courses around £14. contact: + 44 131 221 1288

The Kalpna2 St Patrick’s Square
Vegetarian Indian Restaurant serving creamy Gujurati that will sate any carnivore. Dishes are cheap, but small, order lots. Kulfi (Indian ice-cream) is shockingly sweet, but as the Kalpna make their own shouldn’t be missed.
Set meal deal: £17.50 (all you can eat). contact: + 44 131 667 9890 kalpnarestaurant.com

Le Sept5 Hunter Square
Edinburgers mourn this trad-French favourite’s move from cramped, characterful premises to a more visible spot with less soul (left), but the food is unchanged. Savoury crepes, including smoked haddock, are reliable and cheap.
Around £16 for a main course. contact: + 44 131 225 5428 eloc.demon.co.uk

The Shore3 The Shore, Leith
Edinburgh’s historic port, and the setting of much of Trainspotting, Leith now has some of the city's best and trendiest restaurants. The shore is a long-standing, unpretentious seafood bistro. Folk nights in the bar.
£25 without wine. contact: + 44 131 553 5080 theshore.biz

The Vintner’s Rooms87 Giles St, Leith
Modern French food by candle-light in a beautiful 17th-century wine auction house. Halibut with sauce jardinière was a recent delight. As befits the building’s history, the wine list is expensive.
£35 without wine. contact: + 44 131 554 6767 thevintnersrooms.com