When it comes to exploring the culinary delights of London, there’s one dish that stands out from the rest: haggis. This traditional Scottish delicacy is a must-try for anyone visiting the city, and for good reason. Haggis is a savory and flavorful dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, and spices. It’s often served with mashed potatoes and turnips, and is typically washed down with a dram of whisky.
But where can you find this delicious dish in London? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. While haggis is a staple of Scottish cuisine, it’s not as widely available in London as you might expect. However, there are still plenty of places where you can get your hands on a plate of haggis, and in this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best places to eat haggis in London.
The History of Haggis
Haggis has a long and storied history that dates back to the 16th century. According to legend, haggis was created by the Scottish poet and chef, Robert Burns, who wrote the famous poem “Address to a Haggis” in 1787. The poem tells the story of the haggis’s creation, and is still recited today at haggis-eating ceremonies.
But haggis wasn’t always a popular dish. In fact, it was often seen as a peasant food, and was only eaten by the poor. It wasn’t until the 19th century, when haggis became a staple of Scottish cuisine, that it began to gain popularity. Today, haggis is enjoyed by people all over the world, and is often served at special occasions such as Burns Night, which is celebrated on January 25th.
The Best Places to Eat Haggis in London
So, where can you find haggis in London? The answer is that there are plenty of places to choose from, ranging from traditional Scottish pubs to modern restaurants. Here are some of the best places to eat haggis in London:
The Scottish Café and Restaurant
Located in the heart of Covent Garden, The Scottish Café and Restaurant is a popular spot for haggis enthusiasts. Their haggis is made with traditional ingredients, including sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, and is served with mashed potatoes and turnips. They also offer a vegetarian version of haggis, made with lentils and mushrooms.
The Haggis Shop
As its name suggests, The Haggis Shop is a shop that specializes in haggis. Located in the trendy neighborhood of Shoreditch, this shop offers a range of haggis products, including pre-made haggis, haggis-making kits, and even haggis-flavored snacks. They also offer haggis-making classes, where you can learn how to make your own haggis at home. (See Also: Where to Eat in Stevenage? Foodie Guide)
The Caledonian Club
Located in the heart of Belgravia, The Caledonian Club is a traditional Scottish club that offers a range of Scottish dishes, including haggis. Their haggis is made with traditional ingredients, including sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, and is served with mashed potatoes and turnips. They also offer a range of Scottish drinks, including whisky and Irn-Bru.
The Albannach
Located in the heart of Mayfair, The Albannach is a modern Scottish restaurant that offers a range of traditional Scottish dishes, including haggis. Their haggis is made with traditional ingredients, including sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, and is served with mashed potatoes and turnips. They also offer a range of Scottish drinks, including whisky and gin.
Haggis-Making Classes
Want to learn how to make your own haggis at home? There are plenty of haggis-making classes available in London, where you can learn the art of haggis-making from a professional chef. Here are a few options:
The Haggis Shop
The Haggis Shop offers haggis-making classes, where you can learn how to make your own haggis at home. The classes are led by a professional chef, and cover everything from the history of haggis to the art of haggis-making. The classes are limited to 10 people, and cost £50 per person.
The Scottish Café and Restaurant
The Scottish Café and Restaurant also offers haggis-making classes, where you can learn how to make your own haggis at home. The classes are led by a professional chef, and cover everything from the history of haggis to the art of haggis-making. The classes are limited to 10 people, and cost £60 per person. (See Also: Where to Eat in South Beach? Foodie Paradise)
Conclusion
So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to the best places to eat haggis in London. Whether you’re a haggis enthusiast or just looking to try something new, there’s a place on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at making your own haggis at home? With a little practice, you’ll be a haggis-making pro in no time.
Recap
Here’s a quick recap of the best places to eat haggis in London:
- The Scottish Café and Restaurant
- The Haggis Shop
- The Caledonian Club
- The Albannach
We hope you’ve enjoyed this article, and that it’s helped you to discover the best places to eat haggis in London. Happy eating!
FAQs
What is haggis?
Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, and spices. It’s often served with mashed potatoes and turnips, and is typically washed down with a dram of whisky.
Where can I find haggis in London?
There are plenty of places where you can find haggis in London, ranging from traditional Scottish pubs to modern restaurants. Some of the best places to eat haggis in London include The Scottish Café and Restaurant, The Haggis Shop, The Caledonian Club, and The Albannach.
Can I make my own haggis at home?
Yes, you can make your own haggis at home. There are plenty of haggis-making classes available in London, where you can learn the art of haggis-making from a professional chef. You can also find haggis-making kits and ingredients at specialty food stores. (See Also: Where to Eat in Oxford Circus? Best Kept Secrets)
Is haggis only eaten on Burns Night?
No, haggis is not only eaten on Burns Night. While Burns Night is a popular time to eat haggis, it’s also a popular dish throughout the year. Many Scottish restaurants and pubs offer haggis on their menus, and it’s also a popular dish at Scottish festivals and events.
Is haggis healthy?
Haggis is a savory dish that’s high in protein and fiber, and low in fat. However, it’s also high in sodium and cholesterol, so it’s not recommended for people with certain health conditions. If you’re concerned about the health implications of eating haggis, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor or a registered dietitian before consuming it.