The Mash Tun

Head down Easter Road towards Leith and you'll find yourself in the kind of pub that feels like it's been there forever—because it probably has. The Mash Tun pulls off that rare trick of being both welcoming to casual drinkers and genuinely impressive if you care about what's in your glass. The beer list is thoughtfully curated, the kind of place where the staff actually know what they're talking about rather than just pouring lager. Food-wise, it's straightforward Scottish fare done properly: think pies, steaks, and the sort of classics that work brilliantly with a pint. The room itself has that comfortable, lived-in quality you want from a neighbourhood local—no awkward Instagram styling, just good bones and decent lighting.