This summer treat yourself to the best picnic experience where gastronomic delights intertwine with refined sophistication amidst nature's grandeur. From handcrafted cheeses to specially selected wines, every aspect of the elevated picnic is meticulously crafted to take outdoor dining to a realm of unparalleled elegance.

Jose Dalto is a man who knows his food and his passion certainly shines through in the new summer menu at The Kitchen, the beautiful restaurant with a view at Restoration Yard in Dalkeith Country Park. Hood stole five minutes of the busy head chef’s time to find out a little more about his background, his foodie passions, his inspirations and what to expect from The Kitchen’s delicious new summer menu.

We usually like to keep things simple and light when it comes to summertime cooking - tossed salads, grilled fish, fresh fruit - but on occasion something special is required. Hood asked three of Scotland’s top female chefs to share recipes that, for them, evoke childhood memories of those glorious warmer months.