Makars Mash Bar is a scottish restaurant in Grassmarket, Edinburgh. Rated 4.8 stars from 9845 Google reviews. Known for slow-cooked meat and exceptional mash and sides. Best for families and groups. Price range: £20–30.
Rankings updated May 2026
Makars Mash Bar
Across 9,720 Google reviews, 95% gave four or five stars.
Quick Verdict
Makars Mash Bar is Edinburgh's #1-ranked Scottish restaurant in Grassmarket, delivering authentic slow-cooked lamb, beef, and haggis with impeccable service in a cozy, bustling atmosphere.
You want authentic Scottish comfort food with tender, flavour-rich meat and legendary mash — but arrive with a reservation or expect a wait.
About Makars Mash Bar
Makars Mash Bar holds the #1 spot in Grassmarket for good reason: it's a temple to slow-cooked Scottish meat and the mash that anchors every plate. Lamb shanks, beef shoulder, and haggis pies emerge tender enough to eat without teeth, paired with inventive mash variations—bacon and onion, cheddar, whisky cream—that elevate the humble potato to an art form. The kitchen moves fast despite constant crowds, and staff (Roman, Andrew, Jess, Anna among the praised) combine genuine warmth with efficiency. Vegan and vegetarian options (Lion's Mane mushroom bites, roasted broccoli) are treated with the same care as the meat. Tomato soup and sticky toffee dessert are standouts. The space is casual and cozy, with a trendy edge that draws college students, families, and tourists alike. Reservations are essential; the app-based waiting system is a lifesaver. Pricing sits at £20–30, fair for the quality and portion sizes. Dogs are welcome outside, and the venue is fully accessible.
Makars Mash Bar lands in the category of venues that are as much about the cocktails as the food — a destination choice rather than a convenience one.
What Stands Out
Slow-cooked meat
Lamb shanks and beef shoulder consistently praised for tenderness and depth of flavour; reviewers note meat so soft 'you don't need teeth' and beef 'incredibly flavorful with depth, cooked perfectly'.
Exceptional mash and sides
Mash varieties (bacon and onion, cheddar, whisky cream) elevated beyond standard accompaniment; one reviewer called it 'the miracle of Makar's Gourmet Mash-Bar' and 'Heaven in potato form'.
Friendly, attentive staff
Named staff (Roman, Andrew, Jess, Anna, Liv) consistently highlighted for warmth and speed; reviewers praise 'speedy service', 'incredibly friendly and knowledgeable' help, and staff who 'fulfil all requests'.
In Their Own Words
Review highlights surfaced by Google, in the language they were written
“Amazing food, super friendly staff, great service and a cozy ambiance :)”
“I ordered the slow cooked lamb shank and haggis pie which was served quickly.”
“All the family enjoyed the beef, lamb, sausage and chicken.”Practical Information
Opening Hours
Contact
Common Questions
How consistently good is Makars Mash Bar?
Across 9,720 Google reviews, 95% of visitors gave four or five stars — placing Makars Mash Bar among Grassmarket's most reliably rated scottish restaurants.
Do you need to book Makars Mash Bar in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended for lunch and dinner — Makars Mash Bar is a popular choice in Grassmarket and tends to fill quickly, particularly at weekends.
Does Makars Mash Bar have outdoor seating?
Yes — Makars Mash Bar offers outdoor seating. Outdoor tables are popular during warmer months so arriving early or booking ahead helps.
Is Makars Mash Bar family friendly?
Makars Mash Bar accommodates families — Google visitors note facilities for children, and the casual atmosphere suits all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions about Makars Mash Bar
Yes. Makars is consistently busy, and walk-ins face waits of 45 minutes to an hour. The venue accepts reservations via app and SMS alerts when tables free up. Booking is strongly recommended for both lunch and dinner.
Yes. The Lion's Mane Mushroom Bites with cherry tomato and whisky cream sauce (made vegan with olive oil mashed potatoes) and roasted broccoli sides receive the same care as meat dishes. Healthy options and small plates are available.
Absolutely. Makars is family-friendly with a kids' menu, high chairs, and a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Generous portions and a variety of flavours appeal to all ages.
The slow-cooked lamb shank and beef shoulder are signature dishes, served with inventive mash variations. Tomato soup and sticky toffee dessert are also highly praised. Haggis pie and the Bonnie Prince Charlie chicken are local favourites.
Yes. Dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area, making it a pet-friendly option in the Grassmarket.
Expect £20–30 per person. Reviewers consistently note the pricing is fair and reasonable for the quality and generous portions provided.
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