SETTING From the pavement cafe tables, step inside the smart, spacious, split-level cocktail bar and bistro, passed the neat row of gilt-edged stools. Head up the stairs to the glittering, glamorous ballroom restaurant: chandeliers, leather Chesterfield-style booths and banquettes, neo-classical paintings, mirrors, the scent of fresh flowers, blending an elegant, classy ambience with contemporary, casual style. The grand old George Hotel (recently voted, ‘Edinburgh Hotel of the Year 2009’), is today a sophisticated and sassy place to stay, eat and drink.

FOOD The menu, divided into Tempus begins, Tempus continues and Tempus finale, is unashamedly British, promoting Buccleuch Estate beef and Scottish seafood, while celebrating traditional favourites with a modern twist. My partner selected one of the house signature dishes, potted shrimp with saffron butter and toast. The spicy shrimp pâté is presented imaginatively in a mini-Kilner jar, beside a generous portion of creamy yellow butter and two thick slices of warm toast. Seriously impressive. My glass plate of thinly sliced Loch Fyne smoked salmon with watercress salad is simply ambrosial (I am a smoked salmon addict!).

We continue with baked monkfish with Swiss chard, smothered in a rich, thick caper and walnut sauce served in a deep soup bowl, and pan-fried bream, well complemented with succulent juicy artichokes and a mountain of sweet baby clams – a delectable fishy feast. Side orders offer a taste of homely comfort food - real chunky chips, Dauphinoise potatoes and cauliflower cheese served in cute wee dishes.

For the finale, you can expect some irresistible puddings such as plum crumble, crème brûlée and Luca’s ice cream. We share an excellent cheese board (Dunsyre blue, a meltingly ripe soft brie and Morbier) with crackers and seedless grapes. Downstairs the Bar menu offers all the classics - fish and chips, burgers, mussels, salads, sandwiches. In keeping with tradition, there’s also the popular Tempus ‘Toast to the Roast’ Sunday lunch, with live music.

Christmas Menu available from December 1 - £30 for three courses. View menu here.