Restaurant review: Chez Jules Bistro, 109 Hanover Street, Edinburgh

IF my mother won the lottery, a large proportion of her winnings would undoubtedly be spent on crustaceans. Lobster bisque for breakfast, lobster salad for lunch, thermidore for dinner

With the winning ticket yet to be found, this infatuation leaves my father (and their bank manager) in dismay. All of that was to change, though, when I introduced them to Chez Jules Bistro.

Everything at Chez Jules from the red and white checked table covers to the accordion player, is unashamedly French. The food is simple and rustic and the service is friendly and laid-back, making it an ideal location for a relaxed meal. Better yet, the prices are fantastic, with three-course lunches from just £9.90.

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Straying from the set menu, the Old Man and I shared a dozen snails for starters while the matriarch saved herself for her lobster. It was lucky she did too as the claw alone barely fitted on the plate.

Unable to express her joy as she tucked in, the only response was murmurings of contentment. Sneaking a nibble as she topped up the wine, I could see why she was so delighted, it was soft, tender and beautifully seasoned. The Old Man was pretty happy too when he saw the price – only £19 for a whole lobster.

The steaks were tempting, but with a carafe of white wine in front of me, I thought I would try the king scallops with crispy bacon. The bacon was a little too crispy, but the scallops were cooked to perfection. The Old Man’s delight continued as he devoured his lamb shank, which fell from the bone just looking at it. A £70 bill for an over-indulgent meal for three, Vive Chez Jules!

• Chez Jules Bistro, 109 Hanover Street, 0131-226 6992, www.chezjulesbistro.com

LINDSAY ROBERTSON