IF SMALL plates, wine and good times are your thing then check out The Black Grape which has opened on Edinburgh’s Canongate.

The Black Grape is the brainchild of award-winning entrepreneurs Stuart Hunter and Cameron Taylor who have teamed up with restaurateur Murray Ainslie.

After 12 successful years with The Compass Group, Murray is a highly respected figure on the Edinburgh hospitality scene, having launched and operated some of the some of the city’s most popular bars and restaurants.

“It's a challenge to open a restaurant in this economic climate, but we’re firm believers that quality offerings will always succeed,” he says.

“Whether you’re a local or a tourist, we believe our great food, polished service and stylish interior will ensure we really stand out from the crowd.”

The 60-cover bar and restaurant focuses on small plates designed for sharing. Shining a spotlight on great produce, bold flavours and quality cooking, the team serve up a menu of tempting dishes including: beef tataki, yuzu hollandaise and crispy shallots; BBQ fillet tail, peppercorn sauce and black pepper oil; nduja arancini, fennel and lemon; and fried potato skins, caviar and sour cream.

Its wine list explores some of the world’s most intriguing vineyards and has been curated in conjunction with award-winning wine merchant Hallgarten. Class Magazine’s former Bartender of The Year, Joey Medrington, has also worked with the team on a range of classic drinks that pair perfectly with the dishes on offer.

The Black Grape, says Stuart, is “a culmination of years of dining out and socialising”, adding: “We’ve created an offer inspired by some of our favourite restaurant experiences across the world.”

Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, the spacious interior flows over two levels.

Suppliers include Welch Fishmongers, Shaw’s Fine Meats, IJ Mellis, Company Bakery, East Coast Cured, and foraging expert Coeur Sauvage.

www.theblackgrape.co.uk