Howies West End

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• What are these?

• Average price 2 courses:
   £6.95 (set lunch)
   £16.50 (evening meal)
• House wine: £10.95 per bottle
• BYOB: £3 corkage

• Food served: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 5.30-10pm; Sat/Sun noon-3pm, 5.30-10pm
• Open since: 2005
• Also offers: Vegetarian options (at least 25% of menu), Childrens portions, Childrens high chairs, Pre-theatre menu

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

This review is from the 2007 edition.

This Edinburgh-borne 'chain' of restaurants is justifiably now a household name for reasonably-priced, good quality Scottish cuisine. With outlets near the Royal Mile, Southside and the East and West End (as well as in Aberdeen and St Andrew's) they are fast becoming the restaurant equivalent of Starbucks in Scotland. All create a similar relaxed environment, with pine or mahogany-effect tables, stripped wood floors and a buzzing, bustling atmosphere similar to a Parisian brasserie. Nevertheless, each of the Howies restaurants has its own individual character depending on location and design, and all have an unfailing knack of producing honest takes on Scottish cookery from time-honoured recipes. There is no froth here. Starters are traditional with a modern twist, such as Cullen skink with a Mull cheddar crouton or haggis spring roll with chilli jam. Main courses use fresh, good quality, local ingredients. Venison is cooked pink and served on a crispy and decadent fondant potato. Pumpkin and parmesan risotto is creamy without being clawing, and comes with roast root crisps. Desserts include the now legendary 'Howies banoffee pie', and an effortlessly light croissant bread and butter pudding and traditional Cranachan maintains a high standard. Service is cheerful and the atmosphere relaxed, and there is a bring-your-own policy. Lunches are extremely good value, making this a popular option for quick business lunches. The Howies restaurants offer superior cooking, casual ambience and friendly service at an affordable price.