卡克图斯公寓 Smiltene

Set on the ground floor of the well-known Post and Telegraph building, this faux-industrial neighbourhood bistro was created by three friends and designed as a place they themselves would like to dine. Tasty, modern dishes are informed by the seasons, with local produce taking the lead, be it pikeperch from nearby Lake Burtnieks or locally reared lamb, while the Latvian char is a real hit. Be sure to ask the team for their advice when it comes to both the food and the wine. Occasional music performances add to the appeal, as does the terrace in the warmer weather.

The town’s former fire station is now home to this two-part restaurant experience. You start in the bright dining room, where you enjoy a modern tasting menu centred around local produce, accompanied by one of two interesting drinks flights – either a non-alcoholic option or an alcoholic version that includes the likes of cocktails. After dessert, it's then on to the dark, moody lounge-bar for the second part of the evening, where you enjoy a post-meal drink to a relaxing jazz soundtrack. The team run the place with genuine warmth and their cheery nature can't help but rub off on you.

Three Sisters run this small, remotely set restaurant and each has their role to play: Kerti does the cooking, Triin looks after the service and Kadri tends to the kitchen garden. The playful set menu is a showcase of the area, featuring top quality produce from their garden and farm – such as in the country-style mushroom, potato and sauerkraut – while superb honey from their father’s long-established hives is celebrated in desserts such as honey, apple and milk with sea buckthorn. This is a truly special place where the passion of the team is palpable, as they go above and beyond to care for