Diner 7

This review appears in the The List's Eating & Drinking Guide 2008 – in the shops now or buy online.

As the name would suggest, Diner 7 is a cosy local favourite, decked out with leather booths and a distinct neighbourhood feel. Relaxed and helpful staff chat to Leith regulars as they pore over a menu of innovative combinations and more traditional dishes. Although the atmosphere is casual, this attitude is not reflected in the menu. All the food is carefully prepared and attractively presented. The starters include a tasty crab pakora with cooling mint and cucumber yoghurt, and light spinach, mushroom and feta pancakes with beetroot salsa. The char-grill section of the menu includes American-style diner choices such as chunky prime Scottish beef or veggie burgers with a hot, hot jalapeño salsa, steaks, sandwiches or salads. Game and chestnut pie stands out among the mains, combining tender meat with crispy pastry, which become a taste sensation accompanied by a blueberry chutney. The cooking here is all about attention to detail, even down to the tangy salad dressing. Desserts hark back to old favourites, with a delicious banana and walnut sticky toffee pudding and moreish baked honey and vanilla cheesecake being particular winners. Make sure to book at weekends to avoid disappointment.

• High point: High standard of food at a very reasonable price
• Low point: Popularity may mean you are not able to squeeze in