Best fishmonger

Raeburn Place, Edinburgh, 0131-315 2033

This traditional fishmonger has been in business for over 60 years and all its fish is sourced from local markets to ensure the freshest and best catch of the day. The shop boasts a vast range – from shrimp to halibut – and all the fish is hand cut. The staff at Armstrong’s are all experienced and can produce cuts to suit all requirements. The shop has its own hot and cold smokehouse on the premises and offers a free delivery service for customers in the Edinburgh area.

2 MACCALLUM’S OF TROON

Troon Harbour, 01292 319339 and Houldsworth St, Glasgow, 0141-204 4456

A cleverly converted building on Troon harbour is the setting for the MacCallum’s oyster bar. Owners, John and James MacCallum, also run a wet fish business in Glasgow – the Houldsworth Street shop is an institution in Glasgow and the shop ensures a varied supply of top-quality species for the neighbouring restaurant. Oysters, langoustines, mussels and lobsters all feature, alongside fish ranging from hake to halibut.

3 KEN WATMOUGH

Thistle Street, Aberdeen, 01224 640321

Ken Watmough has a reputation for going out of his way to make his customers happy. There is a wide range of fresh fish and seafood on offer, including scallops, mussels, halibut and lemon sole. A mail order service is also available for shoppers from further afield.

4 KERACHER

Whitefriars Street, Perth, 01738 638454

www.keracher.co.uk

Formed in 1925 by Andrew Keracher in St Andrews, this company specialises in the processing, smoking and distribution of top-quality Scottish salmon and prides itself on providing the same attention to detail as was taken in the early days of trading. Keracher still maintains a retail presence in St Andrews and also has a retail outlet in Perth. The full range of products is prepared on site in its own smokehouse so customers are guaranteed top quality. Mail order is available – perfect for Christmas.

5 EDDIE’S

Roseneath St, Edinburgh, 0131 229 4207

Endorsed by Rick Stein, this well-respected Edinburgh fishmonger has been running for over 20 years. Eddie's has a stronghold of local fans who desperately queue for its homemade sushi every Saturday morning before it sells out. Anyone disappointed can choose from a wide range of fresh shellfish, including langoustines, crabs, oysters, razor clams and more, alongside an excellent range of fish such as salmon, sea bass and halibut from all over the UK.