Mharsanta - Authentic Scottish Dining in Glasgow's Merchant City
Experience authentic Scottish flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City at Mharsanta.
Mharsanta is a celebrated Scottish restaurant and bar located in Glasgow's vibrant Merchant City. It offers a genuine taste of Scotland through its use of seasonal, locally sourced produce, serving traditional dishes like haggis, Cullen skink, and steak & sausage pie. Known for its warm hospitality, generous portions, and relaxed atmosphere, Mharsanta provides an immersive culinary experience with a full bar and live music, open daily from noon until late evening.
A brief summary to Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
- 26 Bell St, Glasgow, G1 1LG, GB
- +441415529900
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the Scottish Steak & Scallop Sharing Board for a hearty and authentic taste of local flavors.
- Visit during weekday afternoons for a quieter dining experience and attentive service.
- Reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends, to secure a spot in this popular venue.
- Explore the gluten-free dessert options like the vegan chocolate brownie for a sweet finish.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & 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 Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
A Taste of Scottish Heritage in the Heart of Glasgow
Mharsanta stands as a beacon of authentic Scottish cuisine nestled in the bustling Merchant City district of Glasgow. This restaurant prides itself on showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Scotland by using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features classic Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties, Cullen skink, Shetland Island mussels, and the much-loved steak and sausage pie. Each dish is crafted to reflect the heritage and flavors of Scotland, offering guests a genuine and hearty dining experience.Ambience and Atmosphere
The interior of Mharsanta combines a relaxed and welcoming vibe with touches of Scottish character, including traditional music that enhances the dining experience. The space is designed to be comfortable and inviting, making it suitable for a variety of occasions from casual meals to special gatherings. The presence of live music and a full bar adds a lively and entertaining dimension to the venue, appealing to both locals and visitors seeking to immerse themselves in Scottish culture.Menu Highlights and Culinary Excellence
Guests can enjoy a diverse menu that balances traditional Scottish fare with contemporary touches. Popular dishes include the freshly landed baked Scottish fish and chips, pan-fried seabass, and prime Scottish steak options like ribeye and sirloin. The restaurant also caters to special diets with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Desserts such as traditional cranachan and vegan chocolate brownie provide a sweet finish to the meal. The generous portions and quality of ingredients consistently receive praise.Service and Hospitality
Mharsanta is known for its attentive and friendly service, with staff often described as polite and knowledgeable about the menu and Scottish food culture. The team’s dedication to hospitality ensures that guests feel welcomed from the moment they enter. While service can be busy during peak times, the overall experience is enhanced by the staff’s professionalism and warmth.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 26 Bell Street, Mharsanta benefits from excellent transport links within Glasgow, including nearby bus routes and street parking options. Its central location makes it easily accessible from major train stations and city center hotels. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and offers amenities such as free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating, and private dining spaces.Cultural Significance and Recognition
Mharsanta has earned accolades including the Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award for 2025, recognizing it as one of the top 10% of restaurants in Glasgow. It serves not only as a dining venue but also as a cultural ambassador for Scottish cuisine, attracting food lovers from around the world who seek an authentic taste of Scotland in a vibrant urban setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
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Explore Glasgow's rich history with the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.2 km
Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
Walter Scott Monument
0.5 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
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Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
Good as Gold Street Art
0.6 km
Explore Good as Gold Street Art in Glasgow - a vibrant open-air gallery showcasing stunning murals and street art that reflect the city's creative spirit.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
0.6 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
0.7 km
Explore Glasgow's heart through the captivating Bronze 3D Map of City Centre, a stunning sculpture and guide to the city's rich heritage.
The Glenlee Propellers
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Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
The Lighthouse
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Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Provand's Lordship
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Explore Provand's Lordship, Glasgow's oldest house, a captivating museum showcasing the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.7 km
Explore Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow, a vibrant square honoring the legacy of human rights with stunning architecture, art, and local culture.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.7 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
0.8 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
La Pasionaria
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Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground
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Discover the historic Glasgow Cathedral Burial Ground, a tranquil oasis filled with centuries-old gravestones and rich stories in the heart of Glasgow.
Unmissable attractions to see
Blackfriars of Bell Street
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Discover Glasgow's Blackfriars: A lively gastropub offering hearty meals, craft drinks, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Merchant Square
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Experience Glasgow’s Merchant City charm with vibrant dining, lively events, and a historic courtyard at Merchant Square.
Trongate
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Explore Trongate, Glasgow’s oldest street and historic merchant hub, where commerce, culture, and heritage converge in the city’s vibrant heart.
Tron Theatre
0.1 km
Historic church-turned-theatre at the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, showcasing bold contemporary work and emerging Scottish talent.
City Halls & Old Fruitmarket
0.1 km
Historic Glasgow music venues blending Victorian grandeur with vibrant live performances in the heart of Merchant City.
"SPACEMAN" Mural Trail #5
0.1 km
A vibrant, graphic novel-inspired mural bringing cosmic color and modern art flair to Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
BOW DOWN, HONOUR THE ROOTS (#29 Mural Trail)
0.2 km
A striking mural on Brunswick Street honoring Indigenous sovereignty and heritage, part of Glasgow’s vibrant Mural Trail.
Britannia Panopticon
0.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s Britannia Panopticon, the world’s oldest surviving music hall, where Victorian variety meets early cinema in a vibrant historic venue.
Pavement
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Creative grill dining with bold flavours and a relaxed vibe in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Old Police Post
0.2 km
Explore the historic Old Police Post in Glasgow, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Murial of a man
0.3 km
A vibrant pop art mural blending graphic novel style and Japanese influences, lighting up Glasgow’s historic Trongate with bold color and creativity.
Ramshorn Graveyard
0.3 km
Historic 18th-century Glasgow graveyard and Gothic Revival kirk, resting place of Tobacco Lords and cultural pioneers in the Merchant City.
Merchant City
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s Merchant City: where historic elegance meets vibrant arts, dining, and shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
0.3 km
Celebrate Glasgow’s beloved comedian Billy Connolly through this vibrant mural on Osborne Street, a highlight of the city’s renowned Mural Trail.
High St
0.3 km
Historic High Street in Glasgow links the city’s rich past with vibrant shopping streets and cultural landmarks.
Essential places to dine
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
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Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
The Dhabba
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Cafe Gandolfi
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Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
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Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
Bar Soba Merchant City
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Table Twenty Eight
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Boteco Do Brasil
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Turkiye EFES Restaurant
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Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
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The Italian Kitchen
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Mono
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Saints of Ingram
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Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
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Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
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The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Social Recluse
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Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Minted
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Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
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A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Pride of Glasgow
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Discover tartan treasures and whisky wonders at this spirited Argyle Street shop, where Scottish pride meets Glasgow's cheeky charm in every authentic souvenir.
Primark
0.5 km
Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
Eurasia Crafts
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Discover handcrafted wonders from Eurasia in a cozy Glasgow gem—unique gifts, artisan stories, and cultural treasures await on elegant Queen Street.
Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store
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A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Geek-aboo
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Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Frida and Coco
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Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
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Fat Buddha Store
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Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Shop Small at St Enoch
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Discover unique fashion finds at Shop Small in Glasgow’s iconic St Enoch Centre, where historic charm meets modern shopping under Europe’s largest glass roof.
The Clydeside Collective
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow’s creative heart at The Clydeside Collective, a vibrant gift shop showcasing unique handcrafted arts and crafts by local artisans.
Never miss a gift
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Home
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Maggies Rock n Rodeo
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Bar 91
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Strathduie Bar
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Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
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BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
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Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Steps Bar
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Discover Glasgow's Art Deco time capsule: Steps Bar's preserved 1930s elegance, walnut gantry, and jukebox vibes await in Merchant City's historic heart.
Bacchus Bar
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Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Speakeasy
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The Piper Whisky Bar
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Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
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Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
Cairns Bar
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Cozy Merchant City pub pouring Belhaven ales, serving pub classics, and screening live sports in Glasgow's lively heart—perfect for pints and pies anytime.
The Alchemist Glasgow
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Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
Sloans
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Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant since 1797, famed for lively events, historic charm, and legendary Macaroni Cheese in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Wunderbar
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Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
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Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
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Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Polo Lounge
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Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
0.3 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
0.3 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Delmonicas
0.3 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
La Cheetah Club
0.5 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.8 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Classic Grand
0.8 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Sub Club
0.8 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.8 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Club Tropicana & Venga
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Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
0.9 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Kokomo Glasgow
0.9 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
0.9 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
