Il Castello and Il Positano are relaxed, informal dining venues serving up some of the finest Italian cuisine in the capital. Under the watchful gaze of owner/chef Giuseppe Votta, Il Castello has thrived in Castle Terrace for over seventeen years. As the name implies, the restaurant is located in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, and the quality of the food continues to attract a regular clientele, who rave about traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Votta’s latest venture, Il Positano, opened in Newington Road in 2007, and it’s clear from the charming service and glorious food that the intention is to recreate the warm ambience of traditional Southern Italian eateries. "Once the customers come in, they always come back", says the likeable Italian. Both venues offer a typically warm and inviting atmosphere, and the clientele (particularly in Il Castello) is cosmopolitan and eclectic, with an impressive number of international bookings. The food displays clear Southern Italian influences. Seafood dishes are the area of expertise, with daily specials incorporating market-fresh fish and shellfish. The good natured, attentive staff are happy to recommend one of the imaginative Catch-of-the-Day dishes. Extensive antipasto menus cover all bases, and there’s a wide selection of starters, from homemade pates, to rustic soups to salads. Il Castello and Il Positano utilize the finest Aberdeen Angus Scotch Beef, and both restaurants are renowned for the gorgeous, succulent steaks. There’s a wide selection of mains, including silken risottos, fabulous stone-baked pizzas and generous portions of pasta. The extensive wine lists feature exclusively Italian bottles, as well as a good selection of dessert wines and fine champagnes.