First Coast

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• What are these?

• Average price 2 courses:
   £9.95 (set lunch)
   £14 (evening meal)
• House wine: £9.95 per bottle

• Hitlisted
• High point: Fresh, fresh, fresh
• Low point: Location, location, location
• Food served: Mon-Sat noon-2pm, 5-10.30pm. Closed Sun.
• Private dining: Up to 22 covers
• Open since: 2003
• Also offers: Vegetarian options (at least 25% of menu), Childrens portions, Childrens high chairs, Wheelchair access, Pre-theatre menu

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

This review is from the 2007 edition.

Like the zephyr at an ocean-front bistro, First Coast is quite the breath of fresh air along gritty Dalry Road. Breezy waiting staff whisk past sandy landscapes, adding to the room's distinct seaside charm. The menu celebrates fresh, natural ingredients and is put together with a definite love of organic food and light dishes. A perfect example among the starters is the farinata - light and crispy pancakes topped with a bundle of diced tomatoes, crispy mixed lettuce leaves, rosemary and a dollop of cool crème fraîche. Still on the light side, the salmon steak is as crispy-skinned and its sweet soy and ginger sauce is a delight. The gnocchi has a punchy spin, and is stuffed with goat's cheese, then dressed with a rocket pesto, fluffy crème fraîche and crushed pine nuts. Don't be discouraged if you prefer a big hearty meal, since First Coast has thrown in lots of great meat dishes, including a reliable Aberdeen Angus sirloin steak and chips. And, if you feel light and healthy after dinner, don't worry, you can spoil it all with the sweet amaretto bread and butter pudding. Why not?