It’s no secret that Edinburgh is a hotspot for both visitors and locals during summertime. And as much as I love a stroll around the Old Town in the Scottish sunshine, the tourist traps and crowds can get a bit overwhelming. I’ll be the first to admit that I’d never considered what gems could have potentially passed me by among the chaos. So, on a recent jaunt to the capital with my mum, I was keen to see what I had been missing out on; turns out, it was Wedgwood the Restaurant.

While the restaurant is bright and airy by day, it's dark and intimate at night - perfect for dates.

Located on picturesque Canongate beside an old church, the restaurant had a calming and homely feeling about it. The original exposed brick wall had been restored to its former glory, and the understated interior featured large, light-loving windows, pretty foliage and elegant cornices framing the room.

We set our eyes on the express lunch menu, choosing the three-course (£30) option. The date of our visit was printed at the top, as each one is adapted on a daily basis to reflect the availability of fresh produce. There were only three options for each course, which suited me perfectly as I’m so indecisive when it comes to ordering (if only we could have one of everything). How better to pass the time while we waited for our first course than with a glass of vino? I ordered the Casa do Homem Branco (£6.25) from Portugal, a light, refreshing white which was a delight to drink on a warm day. My mum chose the Argentinian Man Meets Mountain Malbec (£7.50) - a rich and full-bodied tipple with notes of blueberry and plum.

Featuring dishes made with foraged ingredients, Wedgwood Edinburgh's menu was absolutely delish.

For starters, we were feeling adventurous and both decided to try the Douglas Fir-cured salmon, and my curiosity was rewarded. Beautifully presented, the huge salmon fillet was sprinkled with pistachios, accompanied by a colourful fennel and orange salad that was elevated using wild garlic and horseradish. The smokiness of the cured fish paired beautifully with the zesty salad and the generous portion size (not complaining) was the perfect warm-up for the main event.

Sticking with the fish theme, I decided on the lemon sole for my main. The delicate dish was served alongside crispy confit potatoes, pickled samphire and roasted tomatoes, boasting subtle, juicy flavours. Using the potatoes, which were ideal for soaking up the buttery oil from the lemon sole, I mopped my plate clean. My mum chose the confit chicken breast; it arrived on a bed of lemon orzo stew with a side of tenderstem broccoli and potato crisps. She told me that the chicken and the hearty stew were a dream combo and, of course, I always trust her judgement.

Wedgwood's lunch menu offers you a delicious taste of what the restaurant can offer.

Having already devoured two courses each, we were pleased to see a light option on the dessert list that we could just about make room for - so how could we resist? The lemon posset was a stunning finale which we both enjoyed, creamy and tangy served in a glass layered with berries, pistachio crumb and meringue pieces; a taste of summer in Scotland.

The DesignMyNight Digest

Owners Paul and Lisa Wedgwood have stayed true to what they set out to achieve: fine dining food in an unpretentious setting. The emphasis on premium, raw ingredients shines through in their carefully curated menus, showcasing seasonal dishes made with locally sourced produce and foraged ingredients. After enjoying their lunch, I’d love to go back in the evening and experience the a la carte.

Discover more of the best restaurants in Edinburgh Old Town here and sign up to our future newsletter for the latest openings straight to your inbox.