Scottish Food & Drink - The Chaotic Scot

Haggis stack at the AM Politician Bar, Isle of Eriskay

Seafood from Mara Fish Bar, Isle of Arran

Venison and haggis dauphinoise at Burt's Hotel

INDULGE IN SCOTLAND’S FOOD & DRINK

Trying local food is one of the greatest joys of travel, and it is always a focus and highlight on my Scottish adventures.

Contrary to our global reputation, Scottish food and drink is so much more than haggis, deep fried food, and bright orange fizzy juice; although I am partial to all three on occasion.

Scotland’s traditional cuisine is hearty and comforting, and it’s always exciting to see modern takes on old classics. There is a fantastic international food scene, to mix things up a bit, and we absolutely love a sweet treat too!

When it comes to liquid happiness, you’ll find breakfast tea and speciality coffee, craft beers and spirits, Scottish soft drinks, and in my opinion, the best tap water in the world!

I’m in my element at home in Edinburgh or on my Scottish travels, discovering cute cafes and bakeries, high-quality dining in unpretentious settings, street food, local produce and fresh seafood.

Of course, you do need to know where to go, but I can help with that.

Venison on Fingal, Edinburgh — Venison, Fingal (Edinburgh)

Kishorn Seafood Bar, one of my favourite seafood spots in Scotland — Kishorn Seafood Bar

Sticky Toffee pudding and ice cream at Kilmartin Hotel — Sticky Toffee Pudding: Kilmartin Hotel

top SCOTTISH FOODS TO TRY

> Haggis – it’s top of the list because it is our national dish, after all. If you’re apprehensive, order it as a starter or share a main course with your travel buddy. Also, remember that are probably worse things in hotdogs and chicken nuggets!

> Stornoway black pudding – this savoury staple is another mind-over-matter situation. It’s rich and so tasty! The black pudding from Stornoway (Isle of Lewis) is famous and for good reason. I love a black pudding and egg roll, or seared scallops with black pudding.

> Porridge – my morning porridge is the highlight of my day. Traditionally made with oats, water/milk and a pinch of salt, I like mine with sweet & nutty toppings: fruit, honey, jam, peanut butter.

> Full Scottish Breakfast – staple Scottish items include Lorne/square sausage, tattie scone, black pudding and/or haggis; accompanied with bacon, eggs, beans etc. You can’t beat a good Full Scottish, but it’s definitely not an every day indulgence; you’ll be ready for a snooze afterwards.

> Fish & chips – the best of our deep fried foods, if you ask me! There’s nothing better than tucking into box of fish & chips on a bench by the sea. Perfection on a sunny day but I have been known to in the dark and rain.

> Venison – Scotland’s most sustainable meat, thanks to the overpopulation of deer in the Highlands. Venison is lean and delicious, usually served in a stew/casserole, in a pie, or as a burger.

> Cullen Skink – a creamy, smoky, fish soup from the pretty village of Cullen on the Moray Coast. The more chunks of fish, onions and potato, the better. Buttered bread for dipping is essential.

> Fresh seafood – Scotland’s islands and coastline are heaven for sea-foodies. Mussels, scallops, langoustine, lobster, salmon, trout, you name it! Seafood with sea views is just the best.

> Tablet – this super-sweet Scottish treat will have you sugar-crashing shortly afterwards if you eat too much (I’m guilty, ever time!). Tablet is similar to fudge but it’s hard and crumbly vs. soft and fudgy!

> Sticky toffee pudding – I think there is some debate over the origins of this dessert, however it’s commonly found on Scottish dessert menus and it is delicious. Pair it with ice-cream or custard.

> Cranachan – very traditional, and typically served at Burns’ Suppers, this Scottish dessert is a mix of oats, cream, fresh raspberries and a wee dash of whisky!