Haggis is Scotland’s national dish that has been enjoyed by Scots for centuries. It is made from cows or sheep’s offal prepared with oatmeal, suet and seasonings. Many visitors of Scotland are not familiar with what a ‘Haggis’ actually is and for a bit of ‘craic’ (banter) locals will convince them that it’s a four-legged creature that roams the Scottish Highlands.
Jokes aside, the dish is not only delicious but also central to other cultural traditions of the country. Every year we celebrate Burns Night, an evening held in honour of Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns which involves a ‘Burns Supper’ consisting of haggis, neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes).
Scots closely associate the poet with haggis as one of his famous works is a love letter to the dish where he calls it the “Great Chieftain o’ the Puddin-race!” In short, it’s a staple of Scottish cuisine and for anyone visiting Auld Reekie (“Edinburgh” in the Scots language) then it really is a must-try.
To show you where you can get your hands on some, here are our top picks of Haggis restaurants for you to enjoy in our wonderful capital city.
5. Whiski Bar & Restaurant
This establishment introduces itself as a “multi award winning Edinburgh restaurant and bar specialising in local Scottish food and offering daily whisky tastings.” Offering a variety of delicious Scottish food, you can enjoy their Haggis, neeps and tatties all brought together with an intoxicating whisky sauce. (Address: 119 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SG) | via WikiCommons
6. Copper Still
The Copper Still bar and restaurant is a lively venue nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. If you’re not sure on what time you’re arriving in the capital then don’t worry because their restaurant offers both breakfast and dinner options that include traditional haggis for you to enjoy. (Address: 154 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1QS) | Submitted
7. MUMS Great Comfort Food
Originally known by locals as the “Monster Mash Café” from 2003 the restaurant has adopted its new title since 2010. True to the brand, the menu outdoes itself with superb comfort food options like gourmet burgers, sausages and (naturally) haggis that are brought in from Scotland’s best producers and suppliers. (Address: 4A Forrest Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2QN) | Screenshot via Marco Eats on YouTube
8. Sir Walter Scott Tea Room
Nestled away on the third floor of Romanes and Paterson’s is where you can find the Sir Walter Scott Tea Room. From there, friendly staff and gorgeous food complement an already charming venue that offers superb views of Princes St. Gardens and Edinburgh Castle. The haggis in their Scottish breakfast menu comes highly recommended. (62 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2DF) | via WikiCommons