The new Mercat Grill near Musselburgh chose a slightly different approach to announcing itself to its East Lothian clientele last month. Owner Graham Blaikie organised two charity events to celebrate its official opening after an extensive refurbishment. During the day it hosted a free family fun day, with an evening of live music and comedy for the grownups. Graham, who also runs the Mercat Bar and Restaurant in Edinburgh’s West End, donated all proceeds from the launch to CLIC Sargent.
Graham said, “We have big plans for the Mercat Grill and want to turn it into an award winning gastro pub. We plan to continually reinvest into the business, create additional local jobs, expand the restaurant, create ‘inn’ style accommodation and a roof top terrace for dining and drinking.”
The first phase of the refurbishment is now complete and has seen the conservatory restaurant and lounge bar refurbished, with the restaurant given a new lease of life. The next phase will see the bar and restaurant receive a makeover.