IT WAS another barmy Friday evening. It always seems to be heaving every time I step out the door to go out at the moment, especially when I'm looking for a quiet night.

It seemed that the hot weather has conspired against me yet again in an attempt for me to find somewhere to eat out and treat myself and my partner.

It was with some surprise then when we took our seats at The Courtyard, in Dale Street, for our meal.

Outside we could still hear the sounds of those who had not bothered to go home after work before celebrating the weekend and yet here seemed to be an oasis of calm.

Such a quiet place does not normally raise high expectations but mercifully, particularly with the evening menu, the sheer quality of the food was enough to realise that there was no need to worry.

The first thing you will notice is that the chef loves fish. There is a fair amount in there to catch the eye. It is quite a trend at the moment, so much so that you would have though that we lived on an island.

It is almost mandatory to give it at least some allowance and so I chose the Scottish smoked salmon and dill rosti with seared scallop. It was accompanied by a caviare cappuccino froth and spring baby leaves.

A great choice for a starter, I discovered, as it was light enough to not make it hard work but with enough depth and flavour to be perfect to begin a meal. The Scottish salmon was exactly as you would imagine in quality as well.

My partner went for the pan roasted breast of quail and quail drumstick, with a savoury rosemary tuile biscuit and a sage and onion jus.

She thought that the quail was very tasty and the perfect starter taking the edge off her hunger but, as with all the best starters, left her wanting more.