Concrete Wardrobe is a treasure trove of craft as art for the home at the bottom of Broughton Street. It specialises in quality, one-off or short-run pieces by Scottish-based designers (50A Broughton Street, New Town, tel: 0131 558 7130, concretewardrobe.com).

Whether buying a rose-tinted valentine dram or a warming tipple for yourself, Royal Mile Whiskies is the real deal, standing out amidst the tartan gimmickry on the High Street. The staff know their malts and the shop stocks many, to suit all tastes - and wallets. (379 High Street, Old Town, www.royalmilewhiskies.com)

It's Burns Night on 25 January and a great Burns supper needs a great haggis. Try award-winning Crombie's for a succulent "Great Chieftan o' the Puddin'-race" - they do a vegetarian version too (97 Broughton Street, New Town, tel: 0131 557 0111).

For a truly modern take on kilts and tartan, 21st Century Kilts at 48 Thistle Street in the New Town is the only place to shop. Just ask Robbie Williams and Alan Cumming. Book an appointment (http://21stcenturykilts.com/) to avoid disappointment.