David Bann

The first choice for vegetarians in Edinburgh since 2002 is still blowing the competition out of the water.

The 2018/19 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £7.95 (+p&p).

There’s something rather grown-up about dining at David Bann. It could be the classy, understated décor, or the stylish lighting – the unusual absence of musical accompaniment almost certainly plays a part too. Pudding doesn’t usually start the meal but perhaps it should; the parsnip and blue cheese pudding is a neat little cylinder of loveliness surrounded by a light pea sauce. A main of Puy lentil shepherd’s pie with roasted vegetables is comforting but bested by spiced quinoa, spinach and walnut courgette wrap with a substantial rice arancino and rich beetroot chickpea purée: each and every element contributing to the overall flavour. Desserts are done well. A made-to-order hot apple and cinnamon tart is a delicate indulgence while ginger and lime homemade ice-cream in a chocolate ganache bowl atop orange drizzle cake deftly manages the tricky task of balancing strong flavours. There’s a solid, reasonably priced wine list and a pleasingly diverse range of beers, topped off with friendly, efficient service.