As the group’s first ever executive head chef, Thomson will manage its four restaurants - Quiet Man Taverns, Scotsman Lounge, The Kilted Pig and The Perch – and the nine chefs working across them.

He brings a ‘wealth of experience’ to the role as a former Visit Scotland ‘Taste Our Best’ award winner, and having held positions at numerous high-end establishments.

His most recent role was at Barony Castle (Peebles) where he worked as head chef for five years. Other jobs include Rufflets Country House, Caledonian Hotel and the QE2 ocean liner. 

Thomson said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me and it’s great to be back in Edinburgh.

“Being able to put my own stamp on things was a big factor in me taking the job. It’s really exciting to have been given a free rein when it comes to designing the menus.

“My background has been predominantly in hotels, but here I can focus solely on creating a memorable dining experience for customers without breakfast, afternoon tea or functions to think about.

“I’m also training all of the chefs so we have a continuity and consistency of standards, which is very important to me.”

Co-owner Daniel McNally added: “We were looking for someone with experience to take the food forward at The Perch and The Kilted Pig, and Willie (Thomson) fitted the criteria well.

“He’s done everything from fine dining to pub food, and we felt he was the right man to lead our new venture.”