TOOTS had the post summer blues and was bringing the mood down at Tec Towers.

She had already been on a shopping trip for new kitten heels, and had her nails painted in her trademark scarlet, but she was still moping about.

There was nothing else for it but to whisk her off to a fancy restaurant - that was sure to do the trick and would give me a bit of peace as well.

With no shortage of new joints to choose from, I thought I would push the boat out on this occasion. I'd had a good turn catching a sneaky mole in a top secret mission, so had a few spare spondoolies this month.

The new Dakota hotel in West Regent Street had a bit of a buzz surrounding. Described as a boutique hotel, I knew Toots would lap it up.

"Darling, grab your furs and clutch as I'm taking you somewhere classy," I called to her ladyship.

Quick as a flash her mood had changed and her beaming smile was back showing off those pearly whites.

We sped off from Tec Towers and neared the Dakota building. It was beginning to give me the chills though as it was very close to a place I knew very well. The old cop headquarters at Pitt Street was just across the road, but thankfully some of my old flying squad pals were long retired.

We arrived at the stylish hotel and were immediately welcomed by a friendly face.

Asking if we were checking in or dining, she directed us to the bar area.

We had time for a pre dinner drink before sampling the food delights and were shown to a cosy, dark table.

It is a bar full of character and very plush with waiter service. Toots ordered up a glass of fizz.

It's delivery was full of theatre with a chilled glass and champers carefully poured at the table.

I have to say Toots didn't look out of place in this swanky joint and I was glad I'd put on my best George at Asda suit.

They are very hot on keeping the customer informed and we were told someone would be along soon to show us to our table.

We headed downstairs to the restaurant which was spacious and bright. Staff here have certainly been to charm school, leaving The Moll and I feeling like first class guests.

We had a look through the menu - which has everything from Scotland's rich larder to choose from.

Toots passed on a starter, which was a shock, but I couldn't resist trying the steak tartare.

We then took the fishy options with The Moll going for lemon sole, while I opted for the sea bream.

This place has swift service and I was sipping on a dry rose wine,when my starter arrived.

I was a little apprehensive going for raw meet, but I thought I would be adventurous for a change.

While I'm not convinced I liked texture, the flavours were delicious. Just the right amount of seasoning and light spice, it was a very light dish.

The place was beginning to busy up and clearly word had got out that this was the in place to try.

I was looking forward to the main event.

Our dishes arrived and they were piping hot.

Toots had scored a winner her whole lemon sole off with bone looked and smelled like top scran.

She oohed and aahed with every bite. I was offered a morsel and had to admit it was a tasty fish.

My sea bream came on a bed of spinach with a Hollandaise sauce. It was all thoroughly delicious and the highlight for me was the Jersey Royals on the side.

We were two very happy diners and Dakota certainly brought a smile to Toots' face.

Dakota Deluxe Glasgow

179 W Regent St, Glasgow G2 4DP

0141 404 3680

Food 4/4

Service 4/4

Atmosphere 3/4

Starters

Beef Tartare £10

Mains

Fish of the day £19

Whole lemon sole £24

Drinks

Two rose wines £7 x 2

Total £67