Plumed Horse (Leith Restaurant) earns its spurs with top award - AA Best Restaurant in Scotland: The Scotsman: 30/09/09

The original Plumed Horse opened in 1998 in Crossmichael, quickly picked up a fine reputation for excellence and duly received a Michelin Star which was maintained up until the end. It was a brave move to close that restaurant and move Lock, Stock & Stove to Leith, Edinburgh's main culinary and social satellite.

Tony Borthwick, Scottish Chef of the Year 2005, and his small new team have not been phased by the extreme stage change. The belief that hard work, ability and consistency will always pay off. It has.

Since the relocation the Plumed Horse has maintained its gallop. This friendly family eatery, fronted by Ian Bruce, whose father was born in Hawthornbank Place, off North Fort Street, has been awarded 3 AA Rosettes and regained the all important Michelin Star. That gives Leith its third.

The old port has recently and affectionately been dubbed "The Michelin Mile" due to the close proximity of The Plumed Horse, Martin Wishart and The Kitchin.

"Leith, a fine place to holiday. Maybe you could squeeze in the odd trip up to the city; just for a wee change, now and then. Certainly there's enough good eating and drinking to keep you near the Water of Leith for a good few days."

The ever-growing reputation of the Plumed Horse is steadily bringing in a loyal and varied clientele. So, be careful. You have to book well in advance especially for weekends. There is a booking facility on the Plumed Horse website.

Please say you saw this on the
Leith Links website!