Makars Mash Bar is a family-run restaurant in Edinburgh’s Old Town that offers a fresh take on Scottish comfort food. Located just off the Royal Mile, it has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike for its generous portions, warm hospitality and focus on quality Scottish produce. The concept is simple but effective: pair traditional mains with your choice of mashed potato, elevated through creativity and craft.
At the heart of the menu are slow-cooked dishes such as beef shoulder in horseradish gravy, wild boar and apple sausages, and house-made haggis that is prepared fresh each morning. Each main comes with your choice of mash, with options ranging from the classic buttery variety to bolder alternatives like black pudding mash, whisky and mustard, or a horseradish-infused version with a subtle kick. The flexibility allows guests to tailor their meal without compromising on flavour or quality.
Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for, with dishes such as roasted chestnut and carrot haggis and vegan skirlie sausages served with a rich plant-based gravy. Allergen-friendly dining is a priority, with gluten-free and dairy-free options clearly marked and thoughtfully executed.
The restaurant’s ethos extends beyond flavour. Makars sources its ingredients from small Scottish farms and food producers and even grows its own Lion’s Mane mushrooms on-site for use in vegan and vegetarian dishes. This commitment to sustainability and locality is evident in both the menu and the atmosphere.
Inside, the space is warm and rustic, with exposed stone walls, dark wood furnishings and literary touches that pay homage to Edinburgh’s cultural heritage. Service is friendly and knowledgeable, creating a relaxed environment that feels welcoming at any time of day.
Makars Mash Bar is a comforting, thoughtful place to eat that delivers tradition with just the right amount of innovation.