If you’ve not been to Scotland before, you might be under the impression that the staple diet consists of haggis and deep-fried Mars bars.
But although these delicacies are actually rather delicious (when consumed in moderation), there’s much more to Scottish cuisine than this stereotypical fare.
In towns and cities north of the border you’ll find many eclectic eateries that blend local, regional and international influences to terrifically tasty effect.
Want to find out more about Caledonian cuisine? Get your chops round these five Scottish foodie hotspots
- The Bach, Dundee
The Bach is an independent restaurant in trendy Dundee run by owners originally from New Zealand and if you’ve never tried Kiwi food before, it’s a real treat!
Try a Kiwi burger with beetroot, fried egg, smoked cheddar and homemade BBQ sauce, a veggie brunch with grilled halloumi, wilted spinach, beans and free-range eggs, or the delicious dairy-free chocolate cake.
Tip: you can order online from the Bach too.
- Ubiquitous Chip, Glasgow
Ubiquitous Chip in Glasgow’s trendy Ashton Lane has become an institution in the years since it first opened in 1971 with the mission of showcasing the best Scottish ingredients in delish dishes.
In laid-back, elegant surroundings in the heart of the West End, you can enjoy brilliant meals like Barra scallops, broad beans and girolles baked in the shell and choose a tipple from the award-winning wine list.
Tip: the vegetarian platter with grilled veg and baked feta is also lip-smacking.
- Anstruther Fish Bar, Fife
A traditional sit-in or takeaway fish and chip shop in Anstruther on Fife’s stunning East Neuk, the Anstruther Fish Bar has been named Scotland’s best on several occasions and don’t be surprised if you have to queue around the block to get in.
The wait is worth it though ̶ when you taste the freshly caught haddock battered to perfection and complemented by crisp chips, you’ll realise what all the fuss is about.
Tip: hire a car from Enjoy to hit the road and explore other Fife locations like St Andrews.
- Scotts, South Queensferry
Scotts is a reasonably new establishment in a stunning waterside setting in South Queensferry near Edinburgh that overlooks three of Scotland’s world-famous engineering wonders ̶ the Forth Bridge, Forth Road Bridge and Queensferry Crossing.
This chic restaurant serves everything from gourmet burgers to coconut curries, the service is excellent, and the ambience is amazing.
Tip: try to signature seafood sharing platter for two ̶ it’s divine.
- Madame Mews Thai Café
For a quality dining experience that’s quirky and cool, you can’t beat Madame Mews Thai Café in Aberdeen’s Market Street.
The décor is delightful (think multicoloured umbrellas hanging from the ceiling) and the pad thai noodles and iced green tea are tasty enough to tantalise anyone’s taste buds.
Tip: browse the Madame Mews website for more magnificent choices.
Hopefully, these five Scottish foodie highlights have got your tummy rumbling and remember that they’re just the tip of the gastronomical iceberg ̶ more treats await when you get there!
Collaborative Post
