Bisque Bar & Brasserie

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The 2011/12 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2011) edition.

Nestled in the basement of the Bruntsfield Hotel, Bisque offers a busy bar and separate restaurant frequented by a mix of hotel guests, locals and families from both camps. The contemporary boutique-style interior feels a little dated and hard-edged but is softened by friendly service and an atmosphere that’s both warm and informal. A large brasserie-style menu roves around Europe but keeps a Scottish bias so expect to find bruschetta, coq au vin or wild mushroom risotto sitting next to smoked venison salad and breast of chicken with haggis and whisky sauce. Also included is a grill section where prime Scottish beef is offered up in various different cuts. Quality varies a little, and the eponymous traditional bisque is lacking in both seasoning and shellfish sweetness. A dish of warm black and ‘mealie’ pudding, however, fares better with quality puddings successfully paired with onion chutney. The large wine list, supplied by Woodwinters, is definitely a highlight with some interesting bottles and many wines available by the glass.

• High point: Spacious and sunny (sometimes!) outdoor dining terrace
• Low point: A little more consistency with the cooking wouldn't go amiss