Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, City of, United Kingdom
1. Scotch Pie
A savory pastry filled with minced beef and seasonings, originating from Scotland. Taste the classic Scottish pie at The Drovers' Tryst.
- Authenticity: A traditional Scottish dish passed down through generations.
- Portability: Easily handheld and perfect for snacking on-the-go.
- Variation: Try different flavors, such as haggis or venison.
2. Haggis Neeps and Tatties
A hearty Scottish dish made with minced sheep's heart, liver, and lungs mixed with oatmeal and spices, served with mashed turnips (neeps) and potatoes (tatties). Enjoy this classic meal at The Sheep Heid Inn.
- Unique Ingredients: Features ingredients typically not found in other dishes.
- Local Tradition: Traditionally served on Robert Burns Night, honoring the Scottish poet.
- Flavor Profile: A rich and robust flavor experience due to its unique ingredients.
3. Arbroath Smokie
Smoked haddock fillets from the fishing town of Arbroath, prepared in a sweet and tangy batter. Sample this traditional dish at The Harbor Fish Bar.
- Culinary Heritage: A beloved dish with roots dating back to the 1950s.
- Freshness: Prepared using fresh, locally sourced haddock.
- Smoky Taste: Features a distinctive, smoky flavor from traditional smoking methods.
4. Clootie Dumpling
A traditional Scottish dessert made with suet dumplings wrapped in cloth and steamed, usually filled with dried fruit. Savor this sweet treat at The Witchery by the Castle.
- Historical Roots: Originated from the practice of cooking in cloth bags during the Middle Ages.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses only a few ingredients, highlighting the natural flavors of dried fruit.
- Homemade Taste: Prepared with care and tradition in mind.
5. Tablet
A Scottish fudge-like sweet made from oatmeal, sugar, and butter. Indulge in this tasty treat at Mary's Milk Bar.
- Cultural Significance: A popular sweet enjoyed by Scots for generations.
- Texture and Flavor: Features a unique, crumbly texture with a rich, buttery flavor.
- Artisanal Production: Handcrafted by skilled confectioners using traditional methods.
6. Stornoway Black Pudding
A unique type of Scottish black pudding featuring a distinctive flavor due to the use of local peat-smoked malt. Sample this regional specialty at The Kilted Kangaroo.
- Regional Identity: Originates from the Isle of Lewis and Harris.
- Peaty Flavor: Features a rich, smoky flavor from the use of peat-smoked malt.
- Quality Ingredients: Made with locally sourced ingredients to ensure quality and authenticity.
7. Crêpes des Chevaliers
Thin French-style pancakes filled with savory or sweet fillings. Experience the taste of these delicious crepes at Crepe Amour.
- French Influence: Inspired by French culinary traditions.
- Versatility: Offers a wide variety of savory and sweet fillings to suit every taste.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for a light meal or snack on the go.
8. Scottish Salmon
Fresh and flavorful Scottish salmon is a must-try in Edinburgh. Visit The Seafood Restaurant for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Freshness: Sourced from the clear waters of Scotland, ensuring freshness.
- Cooking Techniques: Prepared using a variety of cooking methods to showcase its natural flavor.
- Sustainability: Ethically sourced and sustainable fishing practices are prioritized.
9. Edinburgh Oatcakes
Wholemeal oatcakes made with oats from Scotland's Borders region. Pair these traditional biscuits with cheese or smoked salmon.
- Local Ingredients: Made using locally sourced oats.
- Versatility: Can be enjoyed on their own, with cheese, or as a side dish.
- Health Benefits: Rich in fiber and a great source of energy.
10. Potato Scone (Tattie scone)
A traditional Scottish breakfast item made from mashed potatoes and flour. Try these savory scones at The Scottish Cafe & Restaurant.
- Scottish Heritage: A staple of the traditional Scottish breakfast.
- Savory Flavor: Offers a savory, potato-centric flavor.
- Crispy Texture: Features a crispy texture on the outside and soft inside.
11. Irn-Bru Floater
A popular Scottish soft drink topped with ice cream. Enjoy this unique dessert at The Dome or other cafes in Edinburgh.
- Local Icon: One of Scotland's most iconic drinks and a beloved treat.
- Creamy Topping: Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added sweetness.
- Refreshing Beverage: A refreshing and unique drink that can't be found elsewhere.
12. Lemon Sherbet Dabs
Sweet, tart lemon-flavored sherbet served in small cones. Indulge in this refreshing treat at Mackie's of Scotland.
- Traditional Flavor: A classic Scottish ice cream flavor.
- Refreshing and Light: Perfect for a hot summer day or as a palate cleanser between meals.
- Portable and Convenient: Easily portable and perfect for snacking on-the-go.
13. Scones with Jam and Clotted Cream
Freshly baked scones served with strawberry jam and clotted cream. Enjoy this classic British afternoon tea at The Dome or other tearooms in Edinburgh.
- British Tradition: A staple of the traditional British afternoon tea.
- Fresh and Light: Freshly baked scones with a light, fluffy texture.
- Quality Ingredients: Made with the finest ingredients, including locally sourced strawberries and clotted cream.
14. Gourmet Fish and Chips
Enjoy freshly caught fish coated in a light, crispy batter, served with hand-cut chips. Try this classic dish at The Captain's Landing.
- Fresh Seafood: Sourced from local fisheries for freshness and quality.
- Crispy Texture: The batter offers a satisfying, crispy texture.
- Hand-Cut Chips: Hand-cut chips that are thicker and more flavorful than their fast food counterparts.
15. Vegetarian Haggis
A vegetarian version of the traditional Scottish haggis made with a blend of vegetables and pulses. Try this meat-free dish at The Canny Greens.
- Vegetarian Alternative: A vegetarian alternative to the traditional haggis for those following a plant-based diet.
- Flavorful and Hearty: Features a rich, hearty flavor due to its unique blend of ingredients.
- Cultural Significance: Continues the tradition of haggis while catering to diverse dietary preferences.