Hanam's

From its humble beginnings in Tollcross in 2005, Hanam's has come a long way indeed, considering how its clientele have faithfully followed it to its new premises, at the swanky Johnston Terrace right beside Edinburgh Castle. This family run restaurant opens a window into the fascinating world of Kurdish and Middle Eastern cuisine and its exotic culture. Along with the delicious food, another indulgence there is the hookah, where you can smoke fruit flavoured molasses in the ageless Oriental burbling shisha.

You could start with the baly merishke, crisply barbequed lemon scented wings and move on to the lamb tashreeb, a hearty casserole of tender lamb on the bone, on top of fresh naan bread soaked in a delicious sauce of onions, peppers and tomato. Do try the kebabs as well as traditional desserts such as baklava that co exist alongside more conventional sorbets and ice creams. De-alcoholised wines and champagnes feature in the drink list along with non alcoholic beers and ciders.