The Courtyard

The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 is now in the shops. This review is taken from the 2007 edition.

It's tucked away in what appears to be a predominantly residential neighbourhood, and the secret of the Courtyard's success isn't obvious at first glance. However, there are two factors weighing heavily in its favour - first, a clutch of office buildings a short walk away, and second, the eponymous outdoor area - kitted out with picnic tables, barbecue, a wall-mounted flat screen TV and a smattering of traditional Scottish outdoor heaters. Inside, the prospective diner can choose between the large downstairs bar and the cosy upstairs bistro, and while the decorative style leans towards Crossroads motel circa 1985, the menu is rather more contemporary and varied. The starters are a mixture of staples, such as smoked salmon or deep-fried brie, and more imaginative offerings such as black pudding and haggis layered with apple and sultana. Mains, meanwhile, are less adventurous but are crowd-pleasers nonetheless: try the substantial Toulouse sausages, served with a thick mustard mash and balanced on a pile of roast vegetables - simple, robust flavours that are satisfying without being overpowering. Alternatively, the roast duck with red wine, shallots and bacon makes for a substantial, if a little haphazardly prepared, feast.

• High point: It's easy to lose a sunny afternoon in the courtyard
• Low point: Romantic diners beware: it's very family friendly