Mars Fritto

Mars Fritto is a deep-fried Mars bar, a Scottish confectionery dish that has become a symbol of the country’s indulgent “chip shop” culture. The dish originated in the late 20th century, with the most widely credited creation occurring at the Haven Chip Bar in Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, in 1995. It gained international notoriety after being featured in the press and later on ReTubeIt, where creators like *Where The Foodies Go* have documented its modern iterations.

The dish consists of a standard Mars bar—chocolate, nougat, and caramel—dipped in a batter (typically the same used for fish or onion rings) and deep-fried until the exterior is crisp and golden. A great version is distinguished by a thin, shatteringly crisp batter that contrasts with the molten, gooey interior; the chocolate should be just melted, not burnt, and the caramel should be warm and flowing. Overcooking leads to a greasy, hardened mess.

Regional variations are minimal but notable. In Edinburgh, the dish is a staple at venues like **Burtis**, where it is served with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Some chip shops in Glasgow and Aberdeen offer a “Mars Fritto Supreme,” topped with ice cream and whipped cream. Outside Scotland, versions have appeared in Australia and New Zealand, often using local chocolate bars such as Cherry Ripe or Moro.