A top chef is the toast of Scotland after his Edinburgh eatery became only the fifth restaurant in the country to receive four Rosettes in the AA Guide.

HeraldScotland blogger Paul Kitching’s restaurant 21212 was the only UK restaurant to receive the top accolade in the new edition of the AA Guide. Thirteen restaurants were awarded three AA Rosettes.

The mark of excellence places 21212 among the top restaurants in the UK.

According to the AA: “These restaurants exhibit intense ambition, a passion for excellence, superb technical skills, and remarkable consistency.”

The award comes less than four years after Paul opened the restaurant with his partner Katie O’Brien.

Paul said: “I’m thrilled. The AA 4 Rosettes are a real boost to all the staff in recognizing what we’re doing here at 21212.”

Paul now joins the ranks of Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles, Tom Kitchin, Charlie Lockley at Boath House in Nairn and Herald columnist Martin Wishart, who are the only other Scottish chefs to receive the prestigious accolade.

Andrew Fairlie, who is currently ranked the UK’s top chef by Harden’s, said: “I’m delighted for Paul, Katie and the team at 21212 on their latest award. It has been great watching the restaurant develop over the years, I have enjoyed many great meals there and this is testament to Paul’s skill in the kitchen and Katie’s approach to relaxed and professional service.”

Read Paul's In Season blog