Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a culinary haven that offers a wide range of delicious dishes, including the national dish of Scotland, haggis. Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, and spices, traditionally encased in the animal’s stomach and simmered for several hours. It’s often served with mashed potatoes (tatties) and turnips or swede (neeps). In recent years, haggis has gained popularity worldwide, and Edinburgh is one of the best places to try this iconic dish. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat haggis in Edinburgh, from traditional pubs to modern restaurants, and highlight the unique characteristics of each establishment.
Traditional Pubs: The Heart of Haggis in Edinburgh
Traditional pubs are the heart of Edinburgh’s haggis scene, offering a cozy and authentic atmosphere where you can indulge in a hearty plate of haggis. Here are some of the best traditional pubs to try haggis in Edinburgh:
The Royal McGregor
Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Royal McGregor is a traditional pub that serves an excellent plate of haggis. Their haggis is made with traditional ingredients and is served with a side of neeps and tatties. The pub has a cozy atmosphere, with wooden beams and a roaring fire, making it the perfect place to warm up on a chilly evening.
The Albanach
The Albanach is another traditional pub that serves an excellent plate of haggis. Their haggis is made with locally sourced ingredients and is served with a side of neeps and tatties. The pub has a lively atmosphere, with live music and a wide selection of beers.
The Beehive Inn
The Beehive Inn is a traditional pub that serves an excellent plate of haggis. Their haggis is made with traditional ingredients and is served with a side of neeps and tatties. The pub has a cozy atmosphere, with wooden beams and a roaring fire, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a plate of haggis.
Modern Restaurants: A Twist on Traditional Haggis
Modern restaurants in Edinburgh offer a twist on traditional haggis, with creative ingredients and presentation. Here are some of the best modern restaurants to try haggis in Edinburgh:
The Kitchin
The Kitchin is a modern restaurant that serves an excellent plate of haggis. Their haggis is made with locally sourced ingredients and is served with a side of neeps and tatties. The restaurant has a modern atmosphere, with a sleek design and a wide selection of wines.
The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen
The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen is a modern restaurant that serves an excellent plate of haggis. Their haggis is made with traditional ingredients and is served with a side of neeps and tatties. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere, with live music and a wide selection of beers.
Specialty Haggis Shops: Try Haggis in a Unique Setting
Specialty haggis shops in Edinburgh offer a unique experience, where you can try haggis in a variety of settings, from a traditional butcher’s shop to a modern café. Here are some of the best specialty haggis shops to try in Edinburgh:
McDonald’s Butcher Shop
McDonald’s Butcher Shop is a traditional butcher’s shop that has been serving haggis for over 100 years. Their haggis is made with traditional ingredients and is served with a side of neeps and tatties. The shop has a cozy atmosphere, with wooden beams and a traditional Scottish feel.
The Haggis Shop
The Haggis Shop is a modern café that specializes in haggis. Their haggis is made with locally sourced ingredients and is served with a side of neeps and tatties. The café has a lively atmosphere, with live music and a wide selection of beers.
Food Festivals and Events: Experience Haggis in a Unique Setting
Food festivals and events in Edinburgh offer a unique experience, where you can try haggis in a variety of settings, from a traditional street food market to a modern food festival. Here are some of the best food festivals and events to try haggis in Edinburgh:
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is one of the largest arts festivals in the world, and it features a wide range of food stalls, including those serving haggis. The festival takes place in August and is a great opportunity to try haggis in a unique setting.
Edinburgh Food Festival
The Edinburgh Food Festival is a modern food festival that features a wide range of food stalls, including those serving haggis. The festival takes place in June and is a great opportunity to try haggis in a unique setting.
Key Points to Consider When Trying Haggis in Edinburgh
When trying haggis in Edinburgh, there are several key points to consider:
Ingredients
Look for haggis made with traditional ingredients, such as sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, and spices. Avoid haggis made with artificial ingredients or preservatives.
Preparation
Look for haggis that is traditionally prepared, such as being encased in the animal’s stomach and simmered for several hours. Avoid haggis that is pre-cooked or reheated.
Atmosphere
Look for a cozy and authentic atmosphere, such as a traditional pub or a modern restaurant with a Scottish theme. Avoid places with a loud or rowdy atmosphere.
Recap
In conclusion, Edinburgh is a culinary haven that offers a wide range of delicious dishes, including the national dish of Scotland, haggis. From traditional pubs to modern restaurants, and specialty haggis shops to food festivals and events, there are many ways to try haggis in Edinburgh. When trying haggis in Edinburgh, look for traditional ingredients, traditional preparation, and a cozy and authentic atmosphere. With these tips, you’ll be able to find the best haggis in Edinburgh and experience the unique flavors and traditions of Scotland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is haggis made of?
Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, and spices.
Q: Where can I try haggis in Edinburgh?
There are many places to try haggis in Edinburgh, including traditional pubs, modern restaurants, specialty haggis shops, and food festivals and events.
Q: What is the best way to eat haggis?
The best way to eat haggis is with mashed potatoes (tatties) and turnips or swede (neeps).
Q: Can I make haggis at home?
Yes, you can make haggis at home, but it requires traditional ingredients and preparation methods.
Q: Is haggis safe to eat?
Haggis is safe to eat if it is made with traditional ingredients and prepared properly. Avoid haggis made with artificial ingredients or preservatives.