This was my third visit to the Barony Bar, over the course of recent months. I saw a rather entertaining Charles Bukowski play there, last year, then was there at the start of 2013 for some drinks. It was on that visit that I spotted some good looking grub being brought out, much to the joy of those who were sampling it.

Exterior

Our pub menus have increasingly become home to dishes like risotto and pork belly, which is all well and good, but it has eroded a long-standing culture of hearty, meaty fare, like pies, stews, soups and sausages. It was wonderful to see all of these family favourites on the menu at the Barony.

I was joined on today’s jaunt by Jane, a regular quester, who most recently joined me at Valvona & Crolla’s Vin Caffe.

Haggis fritters

The Barony is a classic Edinburgh pub. It features lots of dark wood, with lovely tiled detailing, an open fire, and a nice array of ales at the bar. One of the friendly barmaids was giving the brasses a good polish, with a gigantic tin of Brasso aiding her on her way.

From the wide range of options, we both settled upon haggis fritters to start, followed by a beef stew for Jane, and a steak pie for me. I chose mash, rather than chips, to accompany.

Stew encased in Yorkshire pudding

Our haggis was soon with us, and looked a very generous portion. The fritters were crisp on the outside with a lovely mealy softness in the middle. The accompanying piquant salsa could have used a little improvement, but it was a really enjoyable dish, overall.

We could both have happily called it quits, there, as the fritters were extremely filling, but our impressively large mains were soon with us. I liked the look of the giant Yorkshire pudding that encased Jane’s stew, mash and vibrantly green peas. My dish comprised very similar elements, and looked equally tempting.

Steak pie

Each element was very good, with the marmite-rich gravy particularly enjoyable. The tender meaty content of the pie was profuse and delicious. The same can be said for Jane’s big warm hug of a stew.

I battled on and defeated the beast, while Jane fell just short of completing her plateful. We were both very pleased to have filled our bellies with such joyous fare.

So overall, the Barony Bar serves traditional pub food to a more than respectable standard. I look forward to my next visit, when I may have to try their bangers and mash. Next time you’re in the mood for this type of hearty meal, I’d happily recommend that you head here, as you’ll be pleased with what’s on offer.

Scores
Blythe scores the Barony Bar
4/5 for food
3.5/5 for presentation
3.5/5 for setting
3.5/5 for service
giving an overall 14.5/20

Jane scores the Barony Bar
3.5/5 for food
3.5/5 for presentation
3.5/5 for setting
3.5/5 for service
giving an overall 14/20

Today’s quester were: Jane, Blythe

We ate: haggis fritters (2), steak pie with mash, beef stew in giant Yorkshire pudding

We drank: sparkly water

We wore: cardigan, tweed

Total bill: £26.10