Now open in Dunbar

A taste of Nepal.
At home in Dunbar.

From the award-winning team behind 1953 Galashiels, a new Nepalese and Indian dining experience inside The Royal Mackintosh Hotel.

Book a table Online ordering — coming soon
VisitThe Royal Mackintosh HotelStation Road, Dunbar
OpenDaily, 4–9pmLast orders 8.45pm

Our story

Inspired by the
spirit of 1953.

On May 29, 1953, humanity achieved the impossible.

Tenzing Norgay, a brave Nepalese Sherpa, and Sir Edmund Hillary made history by becoming the first people to stand on the summit of Mount Everest.

It was a triumph of teamwork, determination, and the courage to scale new heights. That legendary year inspired our name, and that same adventurous spirit drives our kitchens today.

01

From award-winning roots in Galashiels...

Our culinary journey began in the heart of the Scottish Borders. Our first branch, 1953 Bar and Restaurant on High Street, Galashiels, quickly became a beloved local favourite.

Thanks to our passionate team and wonderful guests, our Galashiels restaurant won the prestigious Spice Award for Best Indian Restaurant and earned nominations for Best Chef. We are incredibly proud of the community we built there.

02

...to a new summit in Dunbar!

Following that success, we are thrilled to bring our authentic Himalayan dining experience to the beautiful East Lothian coast.

Located inside the historic Royal Mackintosh Hotel, our Dunbar restaurant blends traditional Scottish hospitality with the warmth, flavours, and character of Indian and Nepalese cuisine.

Just as those early climbers carefully prepared for their monumental journey, our chefs expertly blend authentic spices and fresh ingredients to reach the absolute peak of flavour.

Taste the peak
of tradition.

Our menu is a rich tribute to the lands that hosted the 1953 expedition. From comforting, spiced Nepalese momos to rich, aromatic Indian curries, every dish tells a story of adventure, tradition, and passion.

Whether you are visiting our award-winning restaurant in Galashiels or joining us for a meal inside the Royal Mackintosh Hotel in Dunbar, every great meal begins at our table.

Come dine with us and experience the true peak of flavour.

AuthenticNepalese & Indian cuisine
Award-winningRoots in Galashiels
CharacterfulRestaurant, bar & garden
Seven daysOpen daily, 4–9pm
A colourful mixed grill of lamb chops, kebabs, chicken and prawns Prepared with purpose

Our kitchen

Fire, spice
& soul.

Food that begins with memory and lands with unmistakable character.

Fragrant Himalayan spices, the theatre of the tandoor and sauces cooked slowly for depth. Familiar favourites sit beside dishes inspired by Nepal’s mountain kitchens—all prepared to order and made for sharing.

Cocktails on the bar at 1953

A remarkable setting

Dine somewhere
with a story.

The newly refurbished restaurant at The Royal Mackintosh is rich with history, including original wood panelling from the RMS Mauretania. Settle into the dining room, enjoy something more relaxed in the bar, or make the most of Dunbar sunshine in the garden.

  • Two minutes from Dunbar station
  • Bar and garden dining
Plan your visit

Recognition

A proud
award-winning team.

Recognised for both its kitchen and takeaway in Galashiels, the same award-winning 1953 team now brings its hospitality to Dunbar.

2024Scottish Curry Awards
Kitchen of the Year
2025Scottish Curry Awards
Winner
The 1953 award-winning team
1953 restaurant award trophy

Your table awaits

Meet us in Dunbar.

Open daily from 4–9pm at The Royal Mackintosh Hotel.
Weekend booking is recommended.

Station Road, Dunbar, East Lothian, EH42 1JY
Book a table Find us