Burt's Hotel - Melrose

Built in 1722 and still the hub of town life in Melrose, Burt's has been in the safe hands of the Henderson family for more than 30 years – which may explain its rock-solid local reputation.

A daily-changing set menu is served in the elegant restaurant. For a true taste of the Borders, you could start with a plate of Teviot Smokery smoked salmon with lemon and caperberries, before loin of Border lamb with Savoy cabbage, ratatouille and redcurrant jus. Otherwise, opt for a char-grilled Scotch steak or tournedos of cod wrapped in Parma ham with pea risotto. To finish, why not try Selkirk bannock pudding scented with lemon?

You can also get innovative bar lunches and suppers in the recently refurbished Bistro Bar. Here, the menu goes walkabout for Thai prawn fishcakes, beef Stroganoff and fillet of sea bass with crab risotto and lime cream sauce. The Henderson's wine list is a knowledgeable and enthusiastic selection of carefully chosen, interesting bottles.