The port of Leith has not always enjoyed unqualified success in establishing itself as the new swinging Edinburgh but this is certainly not due to any lack of effort on the part of the Chinese influences at work in Palace Chine, part of the Ocean Terminal development.

Edinburgh's first Chinese herbal restaurant is an important part of Palace Chine and whilst it is perfectly possible to eat more conventional Chinese cuisine, many are drawn inextricably to the prospect of concealing a healthy appetite beneath a veneer of healthcare.

Dishes are distinguished by explanations of What This Can Do For You. Given the import of some of the promises made more cautious folk might feel they would prefer to stick to the conventional path, but it's a free world and the choice is yours. Perhaps the staff have been trained to maintain reserve when it comes to some of the wackier innuendoes round the table, suffice to say they are inscrutable and efficient, nor do they write prescriptions.

Whichever path you take you can be assured of plentiful helpings of well-cooked and presented food with a good variety of original dishes, particularly on the medicinal menu.

There are signs that with the imposition of restrictions on natural health products emanating from the ivory towers of Brussels, eating your way to good health could become a valid option