Discover Why Makars Gourmet Mash Bar is the UK’s Best Restaurant for Casual Dining!
When it comes to casual dining, one small, family-owned gem in Edinburgh has stirred up quite the excitement. Makars Gourmet Mash Bar has just earned the prestigious title of the best casual dining restaurant in the UK, thanks to its unique menu featuring an astonishing nine types of mashed potato! But what is it about Makars that has food lovers flocking to this cozy spot near the historic Old Town of Edinburgh? Let’s dig deeper into this culinary delight.
A Unique Dining Experience Focused on Comfort Food
Makars Gourmet Mash Bar specializes in traditional Scottish comfort food, which includes beloved dishes like haggis, neeps and tatties, and delightful chicken in whisky sauce. The essence of comfort food is all about warmth and nostalgia, and Makars has mastered this with a twist. The star of the menu? You guessed it—mashed potatoes! Each dish comes with your personal choice from their selection of nine flavors, transforming the usual side into the star of the meal.
Explore the Flavorful Selection at Makars Gourmet Mash Bar
The variety of mashed potatoes available at Makars is nothing short of impressive:
- Classic Scottish Dairy Butter
- Mature Scottish Cheddar Cheese
- Mild Smoked Applewood Cheese
- Wholegrain Mustard Mash
- Smoked Bacon and Spring Onion
- Scottish Black Pudding Mash
- Chilli Smoked Bean Medley
- Creamed Horseradish Mash
- Olive Oil Mash
Not a fan of mash? No worries! The restaurant also offers purple-sprouting broccoli as an alternative, ensuring everyone finds something to enjoy.
Accolades and Recognition: Makars Gourmet Mash Bar
In 2024, Makars was honored with the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award for Best of the Best Restaurants in the UK. This award is based on the quality and volume of customer reviews over a year, and it’s clear why this restaurant has earned such acclaim. Diners have described it as an "Edinburgh legend" and a "local gem," highlighting not just the exceptional food but also the cozy atmosphere that pervades the space.
Dedicated to Local Ingredients and Culinary Innovation
At the heart of Makars’ philosophy is a commitment to using local ingredients and moving toward plant-based options. Guests can savor a diverse range of dishes, from extravagant slow-cooked lamb shank to unique vegetarian haggis and skirlie sausages—a traditional Scottish dish featuring oatmeal and onion.
For vegan and vegetarian patrons, the restaurant also shines, with options like Lion’s Mane mushrooms, lauded for their health benefits and unique flavor reminiscent of seafood. Picture seafood-inspired mushrooms that taste like a mix of lobster and crab—now that’s a mission to redefine comfort food!
An Atmosphere of Warmth and Friendliness
The vibe at Makars Gourmet Mash Bar is anything but stuffy—the restaurant features a cosy, relaxed atmosphere that feels inviting for friends and families alike. One recent visitor shared their glowing review: "The food was first class. Loved the black pudding mash. A feast to remember!" Testimonials like these reflect the priority Makars places on exceptional service, with friendly staff keen to enhance every dining experience.
But What’s This About Prices?
What can you expect in terms of pricing at this award-winning establishment? Dishes range from £18 to £23, excluding sides or desserts—a reasonable price for dining that feels so luxurious yet grounded in comforting flavors. The careful curation of flavors ensures that every penny spent is well worth it.
Plan Your Visit to Makars: A Dining Destination
While Makars does accept walk-ins, it is wise to book a reservation in advance, especially during peak hours. With its growing popularity, this delightful eatery sees plenty of foot traffic. Given its recent accolades and recognition on a global scale—ranking in the top 10 casual dining spots worldwide alongside restaurants from Spain, Italy, Argentina, and Peru—it’s a culinary destination you won’t want to miss.
In conclusion, whether you’re a local or just visiting Edinburgh, Makars Gourmet Mash Bar is undeniably a must-visit. With its tantalizing mashed potatoes, comforting dishes, and heartwarming atmosphere, it’s no wonder this small restaurant has captured the hearts—and taste buds—of many. Don’t just take my word for it; experience the excitement for yourself and see why it stands out in the vibrant culinary scene of the UK!