Makars Gourmet Mash Bar: Edinburgh’s Celebrated Scottish Comfort Food Haven
Edinburgh’s beloved spot for hearty Scottish classics paired with gourmet mash varieties in a warm, inviting setting.
Makars Gourmet Mash Bar in Edinburgh offers a unique dining experience centered on classic Scottish dishes paired with a variety of gourmet mashed potatoes. Known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and commitment to quality, it caters to diverse dietary needs including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Located on Bank Street, this moderately priced restaurant is famed for its tender slow-cooked meats and inventive mash varieties, making it a beloved local gem and award-winning casual dining spot.
A brief summary to Makars Mash Bar
- 9-12 Bank St, Edinburgh, EH1 2LN, GB
- +441312261178
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-8:30 pm
- Friday 12 pm-9:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-9:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-8 pm
Local tips
- Try the slow-cooked lamb shank with smoked Applewood cheese mash for a signature dish experience.
- Book ahead during peak times as the restaurant is popular and can get busy, especially evenings and weekends.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners will find thoughtfully crafted options, including house-made gluten-free Scotch eggs.
- Pair your meal with locally sourced Scottish beers or wines to complement the flavors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Makars Mash Bar location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Makars Mash Bar
A Celebration of Scottish Culinary Traditions
Makars Gourmet Mash Bar is a standout destination for lovers of Scottish cuisine, focusing on hearty, comforting dishes that highlight the best of local ingredients. The restaurant’s signature concept pairs a selection of high-quality meat and plant-based mains with an array of nine distinct mashed potato varieties, ranging from classic butter and cream to more adventurous blends like smoked bacon and spring onion or mild smoked Applewood cheese. This innovative approach elevates the humble mash to the star of the meal, offering guests a personalized and flavorful dining experience.Warmth and Welcoming Ambience
Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town on 9-12 Bank Street, Makars exudes a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The interior blends a casual, relaxed vibe with attentive, friendly service that makes diners feel at home. Though the setting is informal rather than formal or upscale, the dedication to quality and detail in both food and hospitality creates a memorable experience. The restaurant is well suited for solo diners, couples, families, and groups seeking authentic Scottish comfort food in a lively yet comfortable environment.Diverse Menu with Dietary Inclusivity
Makars is fully accommodating to guests with dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free options without compromising on flavor or quality. Notably, the kitchen produces its own gluten-free Scotch eggs and cultivates Lion’s Mane mushrooms on-site, underscoring its commitment to local artisan producers and sustainability. The menu features slow-cooked lamb shanks, spatchcock chicken with whiskey peppercorn sauce, and their own custom-made haggis, alongside plant-based alternatives, ensuring a broad appeal.Local Sourcing and Award-Winning Recognition
The restaurant champions local Scottish artisan producers, sourcing meats, cheeses, and other ingredients regionally to ensure freshness and support local businesses. This dedication has earned Makars multiple TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards across consecutive years, ranking it among the top casual dining venues in the UK and the world. The combination of quality, innovation, and authenticity has made it a culinary landmark in Edinburgh.Signature Dishes and Flavor Profiles
Signature dishes include the slow-cooked lamb shank infused with rosemary, tomato, and red wine, served with a smoky Applewood cheese mash, and the spatchcock chicken marinated in wild garlic with wholegrain mustard mash and a rich whiskey peppercorn sauce. The mashed potatoes are praised for their creamy texture and depth of flavor, complementing the succulent, tender meats perfectly. The menu also features seasonal sides and locally sourced beers and wines, though gluten-free beer options remain limited.Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to Makars Gourmet Mash Bar can expect a relaxed yet lively dining experience, with a focus on comfort food that feels like a warm Scottish hug. The restaurant’s approachable style, combined with its culinary excellence, makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Scottish fare in a casual setting. Whether dining inside or enjoying the mild Edinburgh weather on the outdoor seating, guests are treated to a feast of flavors and a welcoming atmosphere that invites repeat visits.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lady Stair's Close
0.0 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
David Hume Statue
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.1 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.1 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
Mercat Cross
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
Adam Smith Statue
0.2 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Barrie's Close
0.2 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
The High Street Wellhead
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Anchor Close
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting Anchor Close in Edinburgh, a historical alley showcasing stunning architecture and the city's rich cultural heritage.
The Witches Well
0.2 km
A poignant cast iron memorial outside Edinburgh Castle honoring the thousands accused and executed as witches in Scotland’s dark past.
George IV Bridge
0.3 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Pont George Ⅳ
0.3 km
Historic elevated street and bridge connecting Edinburgh’s South Side to Old and New Towns, rich in architecture, culture, and city views.
Museum Context
0.3 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum on the Mound
0.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s iconic banking history and the fascinating evolution of money in a free, interactive museum atop The Mound.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.0 km
Experience the history and charm of Edinburgh at Deacon Brodie's Tavern, a traditional pub offering local ales and hearty Scottish cuisine.
The Writers' Museum
0.0 km
Explore Scotland’s literary heritage in a charming 17th-century house dedicated to Burns, Scott, and Stevenson on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
Lady Stair's House
0.0 km
A serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh’s Old Town, home to the Writers’ Museum and a rich literary heritage.
Lawnmarket
0.1 km
Stroll the cobbled Lawnmarket, where Edinburgh’s Royal Mile meets centuries of linen traders, philosophers, and hidden closes in the shadow of the Castle.
Gladstone's Land
0.1 km
Step into 17th-century Edinburgh at Gladstone's Land, a towering tenement rich with history, art, and stories from the Royal Mile.
The Jolly Judge
0.1 km
Discover the charm of The Jolly Judge, a cozy pub in Edinburgh offering local ales, traditional Scottish dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The News Steps
0.1 km
Historic stone steps linking Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, echoing the city’s vibrant newspaper heritage and urban character.
Scottish Experience
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and magical Harry Potter memorabilia in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Lawnmarket.
House of Scotland
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and crafts at House of Scotland, a vibrant gift shop nestled on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Patrick Geddes Centre at Riddle's Court
0.1 km
Historic 16th-century merchant’s tenement transformed by Patrick Geddes into a vibrant learning and cultural centre in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
0.1 km
Experience the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, a vibrant symbol of Edinburgh's football heritage and a must-see historical landmark.
Advocate's Cl
0.1 km
Step into history along Advocate's Close, a steep medieval alleyway in Edinburgh’s Old Town, rich with legal heritage and stunning views.
Statue Of Fifth Duke Of Buccleuch
0.1 km
An ornate Victorian bronze statue honoring the 5th Duke of Buccleuch’s legacy, set in Edinburgh’s historic Parliament Square.
Milne's Court
0.1 km
Discover Milne's Court, Edinburgh’s pioneering open courtyard from 1692, nestled on the historic Royal Mile near the Castle.
Essential places to dine
Makars Mash Bar
0.0 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
The Devil's Advocate
0.1 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
Ondine Restaurant
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Howies Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.1 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Maison Bleue
0.2 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Ecco Vino
0.2 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.2 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Amber Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.2 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
The Cellar Door
0.3 km
Discover modern Scottish cuisine in a cozy, historic underground setting beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
Under The Stairs
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.3 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
The Piper's Rest
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
I Love Scotland
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
Heritage of Scotland
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Olde Edinburgh
0.1 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
The Court Curio Shop
0.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.2 km
Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
Eden
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Fringe Shop
0.2 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.2 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.2 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.3 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
Great Scot
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage and craftsmanship at Great Scot, a vibrant gift shop on Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bow Bar
0.2 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Three Sisters
0.3 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Copper Still
0.3 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.3 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
The Oz Bar
0.3 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Frankenstein
0.3 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.3 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Cask
0.4 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Whistlebinkies
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.4 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Royal Mile Tavern
0.4 km
Traditional Scottish pub on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile with over 100 whiskies, hearty fare, and nightly live music until 1am.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.4 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.5 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Ballie Ballerson
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Liquid Room
0.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
0.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
La Belle Angele
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.4 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.4 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.4 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
El Barrio Latino
0.4 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.4 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Opal Lounge
0.5 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
0.6 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.6 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.8 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
