There's one thing about Maison Bleue, absolutely no chance of missing it. Quite how they managed it I know not, but blue it is, very prettily done up with plenty of flowers on the outside in season, right in the heart of Edinburgh's atmospheric Old Town. Not for the first time do Scottish and Gallic influences join happily together.

Inside the historic origins of the building are enhanced by impressive stone arches, a spiral wooden staircase and unique interior design scheme. In the kitchens a comfortable blend of French, North Africa and Scottish cuisine creates memorable meals that linger on the palate and in the memory.

The a la carte is the main source of business, and it quickly becomes apparent that diners are faced with la mission impossible as one dish after another sets the tastebuds tapping, starting with bleue-abaisse soup, Bleue's signature version of the Marseilles fish soup, whole fish chunks served with a crouton and spicy rouille sauce. Haggis balls fried in beer batter, served with clapshot potatoes and whisky sauce make the point for Scotland, whilst Moroccan breewats rely upon spinach and goat's cheese wrapped in filo pastry and served with a light salad are simply delicious.

Four varieties of brochette all place equal strain upon the decision making process, but salvation is at hand with a mix of all four. There are few more rousing dishes than a seafood gumbo, a hearty fish and seafood stew from the Bayou with chorizo for extra zest and a Creole shrimp sauce. A tagine centres round a whole lamb shank with exciting spices, nor does Bleue pass up on the fish and chips, over baked chips and a nod to France with garlic mushie peas.

Steaks are in a class of their own, Aberdeen Angus guaranteed, and though the accompaniments vary my guess is that those who like their steaks with chips only could be accommodated. This is not one of those establishments where staff sulk when clients express a preference.

This being quality Edinburgh it would be unlikely that a cheeseboard from the excellent Ian Mellis would be missing, supplemented by market additions that might have escaped even his eagle eye.

Le Banquet Bleu offers three courses at £25 with a vegetarian option at £19.90. Be sure not to miss the surprise calamari, medallion of venison and the saffron risotto. A lunch and pre-theatre menu more than amply prepares equally for the rigours of the day or enjoyments to come from Edinburgh's packed cultural life. Special occasions are honoured, and haggis 'Vietnamese style with a whisky sweet and sour dip' can hardly fail to rouse interest.

A supple and masterly wine list covers a well selected range from £14 to special treats around the £50 mark and bears all the evidence of having been well discussed with the chefs. Nor are they miserly with their recipes which they share with customers, one free recipe each month sent by email.

Their Website is well organised and will fill in all the gaps about this delightful and friendly place, a wonderful place to visit and allow good food and wine to work its magic on your day.