Calistoga Southside

Calistoga was Edinburgh's first restaurant to open specialising in Californian cuisine, a style that should not under any circumstances be confused with American. Instead Gordon Minnis, the owner, describes it perfectly as 'light, fresh and healthy'.

Gordon, who was formerly manager at Haldane's and Jacksons, brings his wealth of experience to bear at Calistoga with an unusual and positive attitude towards the normal high mark-ups on wines by restricting his to a mere £5 on cost, thus rendering bottles that are normally out of reach of the paying public to become accessible instead. Providentially next door to the restaurant is Sideways Wine Store where you can buy the great wines on the list. The choice is exclusively Californian, but hey! who cares? The shop also has a tasting bar where you can try wines free of charge - a great way to start your evening, but don't lose sight of your original intention.

It is considered that fusion cuisine was invented in California, not too surprising when you consider the fascinating ethnic mix there, and the selection at Calistoga demonstrates that, perfectly illustrated by starters that could include dishes as diverse as tomato and tarragon soup with buffalo mozzarella and potato chips, manchego cheese and chive fritters with cherry tomato jam, or smoked mackerel mousse with seeded crouton.

The choice of main courses is equally as inventive; how could you possibly resist the temptation of seared rib eye steak with parsnip and scallion potato cakes and ginger balsamic reduction, grilled pink bream with red potato and pesto salad, or asparagus salad niçoise with honey Dijon vinaigrette?

For the more hunger-challenged amongst us there are side dishes such as home fries with sea salt and sushi vinegar, citrus mash, house salad with rosemary, and garlic and basil baguette. But desserts await, and from a field of five choose a pina colada pancake cheesecake, or perhaps the trio of artisan cheeses with quince.

Lunch on Friday and Saturday runs from 1200 to 1430, with exceptional value at £7.5 for main course and £3 for starters or desserts each. Pre theatre is served daily from 1700 to 1815 at the same prices.

Wine tasting dinners are serious stuff at Calistoga, starting with tutored wine tasting for £29.50 that includes a 3 course dinner and coffee, topping out at £37.50 to include canapés at the tasting, 3 course dinner, cheese with Starboard and coffee, which must be helpful in sorting out the men from the boys.

Calistoga was also hit listed by "The List" magazine. However, don't take our word for it, but instead have a look at their Website, which has the latest menus on it and lots more information on Calistoga, which has established itself as another star in the culinary firmament of Edinburgh, and proving beyond any shadow of doubt that swanky premises don't matter a toss - it's all about the food - and drink.