3 Best Restaurants in The Borders and the Southwest, Scotland

Whitewashed walls, oak-beamed ceilings, and an open fire welcome you into this converted 19th-century bobbin mill just across the river in Gattonside. The cuisine is a blend of British and Mediterranean styles with occasional Asian influences. You might have lamb served with rosemary mashed potatoes and red-currant sauce or roast chicken breast with leeks and a grilled peach. Rabbit and guinea fowl also appear regularly on the menu. The inn lies in Gattonside, Melrose's across-the-river neighbor, but a 2-mile drive is required to cross to the other side; you can reach the inn more easily via a footbridge.

The pleasant white-walled, modern dining room of this bright, airy eatery sits behind the tempting deli counter, and its windows overlook the Tweed. All-day options include salads, platters, and sandwiches as well as heartier choices such as cod with curried cauliflower and a rump of lamb with salsa verde and lemon. Leave a little space for some worthwhile desserts or take time to linger in the bar. Staff are friendly and welcoming.

A family-run restaurant in an appealing village setting, Seasons has a reputation for using local produce consistently well in imaginative ways. White walls and wooden tables create an uncluttered setting for the elegant and creative dishes offered. Deer, lamb, and beef from local farms are coupled with vegetables and herbs from the restaurant's own garden. The tagliatelle with walnut and kale pesto is a tempting alternative for vegetarians.