Earl of Marchmont

From the outside, the Earl of Marchmont looks almost intimidatingly sleek. Painted black, with the pub’s name depicted regally before you, it is easy to assume that there is nothing more to the place than an overpriced menu and some pretentious decor. Not so. Once the doors have been braved, one encounters a surprisingly small, cosy bar. There is a little pretentious decor – a chandelier, dark panelling and a plasma-screen TV for example – but this is contrasted with solid wood furniture and traditional-pub style benches, making the Earl an amicable gastro-cum-local pub popular with both students and workers.

It is perhaps this combination of student and local friendly atmosphere that makes this establishment so lovable. For anyone living in Marchmont, it will be a familiar sight, and a frequent gathering point for many. During the week it is relatively quiet, the only patron being the odd dog sleeping in the corner, accompanied by bar staff who seem to know the majority of patrons by name. Over the weekend, it becomes a student haven with customers spilling out the door, and no hope of getting served if you arrive late.

Open from noon, the Earl caters for coffee, lunch and dinner, as well as possessing a well-stocked, reasonably-priced bar. There are a number of the continental ales and beers on tap, for example Leffe, Hoegaarden and San Miguel, and a good range of spirits. The best part though is that cocktails and drink deals coincide with the weekend, something that more bars should emulate. The food is decent as well; meals range from £4 - £8, and span from homey staples like lasagne and macaroni cheese to mezze platters and nachos. Beware though, as value only goes so far – there are signs that the Earl of Marchmont’s gastronomic department is a little freezer-dependent.

Nevertheless, in terms of value, atmosphere and sheer accessibility, it is safe to say that this pub will continue to be a popular venue for years to come. If you live in the Marchmont area, it is definitely worth investigating.