Pepe Nero

Head up to Raeburn Place and you'll find yourself in the sort of neighbourhood spot that makes you wonder why you don't venture to Stockbridge more often. Pepe Nero does Italian food without the theatre—no foam, no faffing about. The pasta's made with the sort of care that means you taste actual skill, and they're clearly not cutting corners on ingredients. It's the kind of place where you can rock up for a casual midweek dinner or book in properly for something special, and either way you'll eat better than you expected to pay for. With a 4.7 rating from nearly 500 reviews, locals have already worked this one out.