__We don’t want to tempt fate so we will whisper this but it looks as if we may actually get a proper summer this year. One with actual sunshine and temperatures in the twenties.

If the sun does get his hat on, here are some 5pm bars and restaurants in Edinburgh where you can dine al fresco.__

Malmaison

The terraces at Malmaison have long been popular with sun worshippers and, if the weather looks the least bit sunny, you will probably need to be quick to bag a table. Even if you don’t snag an al fresco spot, the recently revamped bar and restaurant are cool hang outs.

Malmaison regularly run a number of tempting options with 5pm. At the time of writing, visitors can claim a 20% discount on an a la carte lunch or get two courses and a glass of wine from the prix fixe menu when booking via 5pm.

The Scottish Cafe and Restaurant

The menus at the Scottish Cafe and Restaurant on The Mound show a strong commitment to using the best Scottish produce from Ramsay of Carluke pork to hake landed at Peterhead. The views of Princes Street Garden, the North Bridge and the Balmoral are also pretty appetising.

If you can wangle an outside table, you can drink in the views while dining on elegant dishes like the hot smoked Scottish trout tart with spinach, Amalfi lemon curd and a radish and dill salad.

Booking via 5pm, you could enjoy two courses from the Scottish collection menu plus tea or coffee for £15.95.

Divino Enoteca

Hidden away from the summertime buzz of the Old Town, the courtyard at Divino Enoteca is something of a secret. For our money, it really comes into its own at night when candles and strings of fairy lights give it a romantic glow. Grown-up Italian food and a stunning wine list add to Divino’s appeal.

Pan-fried pollock on braised fennel and crushed tomato with capers, anchovies sauce and black olives, all finished with basil leaves and extra virgin olive oil might be a typical main course at Divino Enoteca.

Hotel du Vin

The courtyard at Hotel du Vin always offers tranquil refuge from the crowds during peak tourist season. During August, the Fringe may be in full swing but you can usually find peace and quiet at a shady table here.

We like the British/French cooking at Hotel du Vin but could easily be tempted by their sparkling afternoon tea – £19.50 per person including a chilled glass of Champagne. Book here.

The Printing Press Bar and Kitchen

The fantoosh interior of The Printing Press Bar and Kitchen on George Street is very impressive but so are the people watching opportunities from the pavement tables.

The various tribes of city centre shoppers provide plenty of interest whether you have stopped for a quick Isle of Mull Rarebit or intend to settle in and savour one of their 28-day, grass-fed sirloin steaks from the Tweed Valley.

5pm Dining makes it very easy to book in.

56 North

At the other end of town, 56 North is deservedly popular during the sunnier months. Not only do they have pavement tables but the frontage of the bar also folds away and opens the entire bar up to the summer breeze.

We also understand that 56 North will once again be partnering with Tanqueray Gin during the Fringe to operate their Secret Gin Garden.

With more than 250 gins to choose from, there is plenty to explore on the gantry at 56 North and the food menus are equally as appealing.

Regular 5pm offers include a 33% discount on the a la carte menu and two for one burgers when booking 56 North through 5pm.

Bisque Brasserie

Last but not least, Bisque Brasserie in Bruntsfield has a heated garden terrace – perfect for those days when the Scottish summer is not quite as toasty as you might have hoped.

Bisque Brasserie is also handy for the King’s so diners can enjoy the pre-theatre menu in the early evening sun before strolling down to the theatre.

You can have two courses from the prix fixe menu for £15 when booking Bisque Brasserie with 5pm.