Gulabin Lodge

From the genuine, professional service to the array of quality seafood, there is a lot to love about this smart restaurant decorated with a wicker shoal hanging from the ceiling and photos of fishermen on the walls. Fabulous produce, much of it Scottish, powers dishes that accentuate the flavours of their core ingredient with a few well-judged, finely made accompaniments – such as Shetland halibut accompanied by slow roasted tomatoes and salsa verde. As always with the best seafood restaurants, keep an eye on the specials board for more fresh delights.

Queen Victoria made this area fashionable when she started visiting Balmoral Castle in the 1840s, and this restaurant inside The Fife Arms hotel certainly has its own brand of eclectic chic. Murano chandeliers hang from the ceiling and a huge stag oversees proceedings, while the staff are dressed in tartan that matches the cubist painted walls. Come in winter and you'll be welcomed by the glowing embers of the fire. Prime Scottish ingredients from lobster to venison are presented in classical dishes that often incorporate the smoky aromas of a wood fire.

This former railway hotel may date back to 1866, but the inside has a super-smart modern look thanks to the owners of nearby Ballintaggart Farm; pass through the small library-cum-lounge and you’ll find a cosy, homely restaurant. 'Scottish' and 'seasonal' are the guiding principles of the cooking, which harnesses local ingredients from Isle of Mull crab to Perthshire wild mushrooms to power the generously sized and flavoured dishes. The owners are also wine enthusiasts and an impressive selection of whiskies and cocktails are on offer too.

As the name suggests, this restaurant is housed in the former manse to the nearby Blair Castle. This building is impressive in itself, a substantial property situated within 10 acres of grounds and boasting a restored walled garden. The restaurant occupies a newly built orangery, which despite the country house feel to the surroundings has a pleasingly relaxed air. The cooking is Scottish to the core, with produce like Skye langoustine and Perthshire mallard used in dishes with nothing superfluous on the plate. Add in the rooms and chatty service and you have a perfect base for exploring the H

Located in an end of terrace cottage dating back to the 18C, this appealing restaurant blends its characterful, dark oak panelled walls and ceiling with a bright, contemporary look. Unfussy, modern cooking proudly name-checks Scottish ingredients and comes with plenty of flavour. Be sure to try their delicious homemade haggis.

Café

Italian