Nestled in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant city centre, Mara is a stylish wine bar and restaurant, offering a refined yet relaxed setting, whether you’re popping in for a leisurely lunch, evening gathering, or a couple of afterwork drinks. Mara is the creation of husband-and-wife team Ross and Carolina Cochrane, combining Ross’s award-winning culinary expertise with Carolina’s curated selection of Italian wines.
Mara brings a warm ambience, showcasing a casual backdrop of wooden seating and plush, chocolate brown seating. A bar sits in the heart of the room, offering countertop dining as well as several more seats in the main dining area. It’s the kind of space that feels custom-built for lingering.
The menus at Mara centre around Italian-influenced small plates crafted with fresh Scottish produce. Diners can expect a seasonal array of snacks, tasting plates, and desserts that showcase bold flavours with elegant presentation. Those visiting for a drink and a light bite can enjoy olives, garlic flatbread with hot honey, or homemade focaccia with white bean hummus, alongside small plates such as salami with dressed rocket, MARAncini with truffle and parmesan, and mackerel with fennel and pink grapefruit.
Mara’s charm lies in its simplicity, each dish consisting of just a few key ingredients that have been expertly cooked. Larger plates include duck leg with cannellini beans and leek, king prawns with chilli and garlic, and risotto with autumn squash and goat’s cheese. Sweet offerings such as the signature MARA tiramisu and affogato round off the experience, while a cheese plate featuring Isle of Mull cheddar is the perfect choice for those looking for a savoury finish.
The wine list is a standout feature, offering an extensive range of Italian whites, reds, roses, and sparkling wines from regions including Piemonte, Toscana, Sicilia, and Lombardia. Each bottle is selected to complement the menu and elevate the dining experience. Guests can also enjoy Italian-inspired spritzes and premium Malfy gins - meaning that there’s bound to be something for every taste.