The best restaurants in Musselburgh East and Carberry East Lothian Edinburgh and Lothian

A trip down memory lane…❤️ The Shish Mahal opened its doors in 1979 and quickly became not only a popular place to dine-in for the people from East Lothian, but many people would travel from a much further distance on hearing people spread their word of mouth recommendations. It soon became an institution somewhat, and built a wonderful reputation within the community, providing a warm atmosphere and welcoming service to all, along with dishing up some exquisite cuisine. For the duration of the 80’s Idris Khan (Founder) and the late Akram Awan (RIP) were the perfect team, and the restaurant was always busy and had a distinct buzz in the air, especially at the weekends. The noise often from the hall was full of laughter and happiness it was rather addictive and a very special place to be. Move forward into the 90s and Mr Khan and his eldest son really had the business growing year on year, it was such a busy yet charming, cosy restaurant that had not only a loyal fan base of regular customers who would visit weekly, it was a place where everyone knew your name… to this day many people still reminisce on how the decor was very warm, magical even, and the red carpeted walls do bring back so many memories for the people of Musselburgh and beyond. Younger generations grew up eating with their families only to become regulars themselves as they got older. In the early 2000’s business continued to remain consistent but as time was passing after the Millennium, The Shish had to make changes to the decor which did create a stir as the foundations from the past were in need of a facelift. This was a challenge as it does change the traditional atmosphere that was loved by all. Eventually with Mr Khans two eldest sons moving away from the industry as the years passed by, the restaurant has faced further challenges; including a pandemic, cost of living crisis and staff changes, it really is incredibly difficult in keeping everyone happy but with the remaining 3 brothers of 5 now running the family business, it’s really been amazing for me personally to see some innovative ideas put in to practice this year as more recent times standards had clearly slipped and the business sadly has suffered in comparison to past successes in the 80’s and 90’s which were the most incredible years, but it is possible to have the restaurant buzzing again and keeping those standards very, very high through dedication; hard work and passion for the business in providing a better atmosphere, award winning customer service and great food! With the recent refurbishment the premises are looking fresh and the best they have done so for several years. New customer facilities are a welcome and a much needed improvement. An exciting new menu has been introduced; adding some new flavours for everyone to try along with keeping the majority of all the dishes from the past that customers have enjoyed for many, many years. The Shish Mahal has been an important part of the restaurant and takeaway scene in the Honest Toun for so long, I would love to see the younger generation learn and gain experience which will take the business in to the future in what will be a very special time for The Shish, Idris and all the family. The restaurant and its 50th anniversary is not too far away and should be celebrated. I truly hope the community get behind and support the young gents as they themselves gain experience. Customer feedback is extremely important and I would encourage everyone to share their recent experiences whether you’ve had a takeaway or a sit-down meal at the Shish. BYOB has returned which was due to popular demand. Hope you enjoyed this little trip down memory lane, I know many will and many of you like myself, will have stories to tell on your experiences through the years… I’ve written this as I recently had the pleasure of catching up with some old friends and we all shared some very precious memories from times spent at The Shish Mahal.

I work in Musselburgh so I often go to costa for coffee. Went today after work the guy who served me was vile. So rude and could tell me ordering a coffee was a problem for him. Always found female staff lovely. He has put me off going back.

Visited last week for early breakfast with friends. Friendly service, terrific coffee and delicious poached eggs with avocado on toast. I haven’t bothered to write a review for anywhere before, but felt this was outstanding and wish more places could deliver the same experience !

Great food, friendly staff and good prices.

Lovely breakfast. Friendly and polite staff. Good value for money Variety on lunch menu which is also good value. Food served fast and piping hot

Great cafe service and staff l would like to wish them all a happy New Year from Mary Bill and Sophia keep the good work up guys l know you get customers that are rude l have been waiting to get served so keep a smile as you always do

Popped in today for the first time and we got some sweets around £7 while waiting then we were £12 for 2 crepes with ice cream, we were advised 5 minutes but then 10 minutes as the machine wasn’t on but took around 15 minutes. The first arrived hot and looked amazing but after 3 bites I had a dark hair visible on my fork wrapped in the Nutella chocolate and crepe! Friendly assistant but with long hair it should really be tied in a bun or have a hair net on and not in a loose ponytail when around food. Pointed it out and I got an apology and offered a fresh one but didn’t want one as that just put me off and my partner too who didn’t even eat 1/2 of his as he was as shocked and disappointed as I was. I asked for a refund on the one I sent back and really should have been refunded for them both. Pick and mix ok, some sweets that tasted horrid and not great quality for the price paid. Left the shop disappointed.

For a busy day the line did move fast. Some great staff at this branch!!!! Kai and Priyang lovely sandwich and cookie

Awful sooooo salty totally inedible as well as being two hours late. Was meant to be a special birthday meal but completely ruined. Avoid!!!