Visit La Garrigue, arguably the most authentic French restaurant in town and be transported into the Languedoc region of France. Enjoy the food, sample the 'Terroir wines' and the warm service. Winner 'Les Routiers Guide; Scottish restaurant of the year'.

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• What are these?

• Average price 2 courses: £5

• Hitlisted
• High point: Genuine French produce served up with warm hospitality
• Low point: Trying to leave without a pile of specialist goodies
• Food served: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-4pm. Closed Sun
• Open since: 1999 (Dec 2004 under
• Also offers: Vegetarian options (at least 25% of menu), Childrens portions, Take away

The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 is now in the shops.

This review is from the 2007 edition.

There is something irresistibly romantic about the French eating experience, and this gem of a café certainly lives up to that reputation. The sense that you're somewhere authentic is with you the minute you step through the door. Enter to the sounds of French music along with a plethora of carefully-sourced deli goods, including tins of pâté, bottles of Breton cider, jams and cheeses. The takeaway or sit-in baguettes range from hummus and olives to goose or pork rillettes, alongside the more straightforward ham and cheese (although even these come cured, smoked or cooked). Alternatively, try one of pre-prepared dishes just waiting to be popped under the grill. Savoury crêpes nestle beside tartiflette - a pungent winter warmer of potato and lardons, topped with strips of reblochon cheese - and tantalising tarts including a crumbly Emmental and tomato. Everything is served in the traditional (unadorned) French way by the friendly and knowledgeable owner-operators, Amanda and Craig Nash. The pastries to accompany your large cup of strong coffee are hand-made by an artisan baker who only supplies one other deli in Edinburgh. There are fondue sets to hire, French chipolatas for the barbecue, and regulars lingering for a chat. What more could you want? It truly is the real thing.