Mary's Milk Bar — Restaurant in City of Edinburgh

Went there on a quiet February weekday afternoon with 0 other customers, but they were unnecessarily rude about my casual request for a measly extra sample... And it wasn't really about the sample, it's just how they went about it and the attitude during a quiet time, even though we were definite customers! The gelato was alright, I got the sour cherry which was definitely a rich, well made gelato and I never complained. But it was quite a tart and strong flavour for a small tub after a few spoonfuls. Ended up chucking more than 50% of it and they seemed to be very offended and making comments. 😂 My cousin liked the hot chocolate float with plain vanilla. I'd never have gone there and given custom if I knew about their approach so a word of warning to those who don't like that sort of attitude. I'm sure there's plenty of other nice places in Edinburgh, or you could try Ice cream Union in London for the nicest customer service ever and also quality gelato - it is possible to offer both! (Mary's team should go on a site visit to learn what customer care means and being polite won't cost them more and if anything will garner...

Mary’s Milk Bar is a sweet little spot located in the vibrant Grassmarket Square. The ice cream and chocolate are made fresh daily with local ingredients. The selection of flavours is small with only about 8 to choose from per day but, the quality of ice cream is exceptional. Mary’s Milk Bar also offers vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, nut-free and gluten-free options and the flavours change day to day offering both regulars and visitors a variety of favourites and creative flavour combinations to choose from. The service is friendly and inviting. We were greeted each time we entered with staff taking the time to explain the flavours and help us make our selections. The ice cream is smooth, creamy and absolutely delicious. You can taste the quality in each mouthful. We tried several flavours over a few days during our trip. My favourites were the salted caramel, hazelnut and pistachio. A hot chocolate float was the perfect combination for a chillier day – we paired ours with hazelnut ice cream, what a treat! We also tried a few different places and this was, without a doubt, the best ice cream/gelato In Edinburgh....

The most peculiar selection of flavors 🍦

Cozy little spot, friendly staff, stunning views to the castle.. But the flavors.. the flavors are so subtle..barely recognizable hints of the ingredients.. They got all - natural approach which sometimes explains the situation.. but it just feels like hearing an echo of your favorite song and not being able to turn the volume up.. enjoying most combinations but always left craving more intensity..

Yet, every time Mary shares a posts with new flavors.. my curiosity lures me back to test my luck..

I did have better experience with their chocolate bars, Persian Delight was my solid favorite..though haven’t seen it for quite a while.

I would definitely recommend their hot chocolate. They use chocolate chips so it’s reach in flavor and has a perfect texture. Add a scoop of chocolate ice cream to take it to the next level ✨

Tip: if you really want to try a specific flavor check the board or ask the staff if they still have it before joining the queue. In the late afternoon and early evening the selection tends to be limited as they sell out...