What is it: I was quite surprised when the Central Market restaurant on this site shut down a few months ago as it seemed to be doing quite well. Islena describes itself as a subtly Spanish-themed bar and restaurant offering Mediterranean food and drink inspired from northern Spanish regions. The decor is based on a chiringuito or Spanish beach bar with large windows, rustic wood-clad walls, cool blue colours, and cafe-style furnishings, creating a fresh and open feel. If you don't look out onto Bell Street, you could almost be sitting in a cafe in San Sebastian.

Verdict: The owner has another successful venue around the corner so knows what he is doing. People might argue it's hard to take a theme like this and transfer it to Scotland because of the weather, but I disagree. Sometimes a bar should be a place to transport yourself to somewhere different and just indulge in a bit of food and drink fantasy. I enjoyed the attention to detail here; a lot of thought and care has gone into making it authentic.

Drink: I very much enjoyed a glass of Vilarnau Cava from Barcelona for £5

Food: Good, fresh, authentic Spanish cooking. I went for the whole salt-baked sea bream with

lemon and Salmoriglio for £15.

Prices: About right for this part of the city and because of the small plates priced from £4.50, you can have as little or as much as you like.

Alfresco: Great space outside to sit and watch the world go by.

Children: More than welcome if dining with adults.

Perfect for: Enjoying some authentic Mediterranean food and drink with a group of friends.

Avoid if: You were looking for a dark corner to enjoy your pint and read your newspaper.

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