B'est

After the relentless sweating over a hot stove that is the festive season for many, the idea of a relaxing escape to a friendly bistro offers some light on the horizon. Especially when the menu is happily devoid of pigs in blankets and Brussels sprouts.

Today’s Big Deal whisks you to an intimate table for two in B’est, an atmospheric little French bistro handily situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Simply the B’est

A relaxed and inviting venue with distinctive wood-panelled décor and plenty of French-themed pictures, B’est has been serving up inventive and unpretentious cuisine for over eight years. It’s a great spot for a laid-back night out or pre-theatre dinner before taking in a show at the nearby Festival Theatre.

Dining a deux

Available Monday to Saturday from 5pm until 10pm, the Big Deal is for two people to each enjoy a three-course meal from the set menu.

New creations are regularly added to the B’est repertoire, but to give an idea of typical dishes, recent menus have featured starters such as filled forest mushrooms with Stilton au-gratin or a mixed smoked fish salad, while mains include grilled pork loin with garlic mash and Stilton sauce and Pan-American hake with lemon butter, cherry tomato and crushed potato.

Desserts indulge the Scots sweet tooth with tempting creations such as crème brûlée and chocolate and caramel tart with ice-cream.

Note that some menu specials may involve a small supplement.

Happy diners

B’est has attracted plenty of positive reviews on its 5pm page. Recent contributions include the following:

‘We enjoyed visiting this quaint little restaurant. The food was delicious as was the service.’

‘One of the most atmospheric places I’ve been. Awesome food.’

Festive gift idea

As you deal with your post-festive stress disorder, it’s helpful to remind a loved one that they are appreciated. Today’s Big Deal with B’est would make a thoughtful Christmas gift, offering the tempting prospect of a relaxed evening for two and a three-course meal in chic and unique surroundings.