The Arches Café Bar & Restaurant

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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.

This venue seems to offer something for everyone – renowned clubbing for late-night revellers, theatre productions for the culture vultures and a small accomplished restaurant for the foodies. Located downstairs from the main entrance, a funky bar with a smattering of bright colours welcomes those who wish to have a drink in a cool laid-back atmosphere, beyond this the dining room has a simple feel – low wooden tables are surrounded by black leather pouffes while Scottish artwork hangs dotted around the otherwise bare walls. Start with an unusual black pudding scotch egg – the centre of the yolk is still soft while the accompanying tomato salsa is vibrant and full of crunch, with mustard aioli the perfect partner to the rich egg. Elsewhere expect quality pizzas, stuffed chicken, rib-eye steaks, roast partridge and a handful of veggie options including celeriac and parsley gnocchi – light home-made dumplings, far superior to the synthetic shop-bought variety, arrive resting on full-bodied, ruby red beetroot cream.

• High point: Great restaurant in an unusual setting
• Low point: Seating could be more comfortable