Restaurant at Balbirnie House

The kingdom of Fife, one of the understated treasures of Britain's natural heritage, has some pretty fine man-made additions as well, of which Balbirnie House is one. The experience of dining in The Orangerie allows for a formality which is uplifting rather than daunting.

The cuisine, though covered by 'modern' is in fact an eclectic collection of essentially classic dishes with dashes of culinary derring-do, witness seared scallops on a Thai mussel curry with coriander rice or a cured beef bresaola with rocket leaves, shaved parmesan, lime and virgin oil dressing. Main courses could include peppered pork fillet with that wonderful Scottish blue cheese, Dunsyre, for the souflee, port gravy and spinach, or one of their magnificent steaks with a choice of vegetables and Bearnaise sauce.

The extensive wine list displays care and discernment, with house wine at £13.95.