Haggis is a traditional Scottish dish that has been around for centuries. Made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, it’s a staple in Scottish cuisine and a must-try for anyone visiting Edinburgh. But with so many restaurants and cafes offering haggis on their menus, where can you find the best haggis in Edinburgh? In this guide, we’ll show you where to go for the tastiest haggis in town.
History of Haggis
Haggis has a long and storied history in Scotland. It’s thought to have originated in the 15th century, and since then it’s become an iconic dish that’s closely associated with Scottish culture. Traditionally, haggis is served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes) and a glass of whisky.
Along with the traditional haggis, neeps and tatties, you’ll also find it in Haggis Bon Bons, in pastry, deep fried, in a burger, at breakfast and even on top of pizza. It’s a really versatile dish, so there’s sure to be some form of it you’ll enjoy.
What to Look for in a Great Haggis
When it comes to haggis, texture, flavor, and seasoning are key. A great haggis should be rich and savory, with a slightly grainy texture that comes from the finely chopped meat. It should also be well-seasoned, with a good balance of spices and herbs.
Best Haggis in Edinburgh
Here is where to find the best haggis in Edinburgh.
1. Arcade Haggis and Whisky House
48 Cockburn St, Jackson Close, Edinburgh EH1 1PB
Often said to be the best haggis in Edinburgh, Arcade serves over 100 whiskeys and seasonal, local and fresh Scottish food. Everything here is cooked from scratch, from the haggis bon bons with whiskey marmalade to their pork, stilton and asparagus sausages.
Website: arcadepub.co.uk
Try their: Princes Diana Haggis with cream, tomatoes, onions and Drambuie liqueur
Price: £15.50 – £17 for haggis
2. The Haggis Box
Scottish Storytelling Centre, 43-45 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SR
Restaurant Taverne is a cozy and charming Swiss restaurant located in the village of Matten bei Interlaken. The menu features a range of traditional Swiss dishes, including raclette, fondue, and various meat dishes. The restaurant is also known for its friendly service and warm atmosphere.
Serving a true taste of Scotland, The Haggis Box can be found making haggis the traditional way every day at the Scottish Storytelling Centre on the Royal Mile. Served with Neeps (turnip/swede) and Tatties (potatoes), just the way the locals love it. Choose from whisky and mustard sauce or red wine gravy to go with it.
Website: thehaggisbox.com
Try their: Haggis, neeps and tatties
Price: £8.50 for haggis
3. Halfway House
Fleshmarket close, 24 Fleshmarket Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1BX
One of the smallest pubs in Edniburgh, Halfway House is a cosy stop to try some of the best haggis in the city. They serve traditional haggis, neeps and tatties, best enjoyed with one of their ales or malt whiskies.
Website: oldtownpubco.com/our-bars/halfway-house/
Try their: Haggis, neeps and tatties
Price: £7.50 for haggis, neeps and tatties
4. Makars Mash Bar
9-12 Bank St, Edinburgh EH1 2LN
Makars Mash Bar can be found on the Mound, serving world renowned Scottish food in the form of amazing meats and gourmet mashed potato.
Website: makarsmash.com
Try their: Beef haggis with heather honey & turnip puree
Price: £15 for haggis with mash
Whiski Bar
119 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SG
Whiski Bar is an award winning restaurant on the Royal Mile, with over 300 Scotch malt whiskies and delicious traditional Scottish food to try. Head there for their award winning haggis, fresh seafood and Scottish beef.
Website: whiskibar.co.uk
Try their: Haggis Tower with neeps, mash potato and whisky sauce
Price: £17 for their haggis tower
6. Copper Still Bar & Restaurant
154 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1QS
Serving fresh Scottish food, Copper Still gets their haggis from local suppliers. They offer both breakfast and an all day menu that features traditional haggis, neeps and tatties.
Website: copperstill.co.uk
Try their: Haggis, neeps and tatties
Price: £16 for their haggis, neeps and tatties
7. Mum’s Great Comfort Food
4A Forrest Rd, Edinburgh EH1 2QN
Mum’s aims to deliver gourmet food that’s accessible for everyone, and goes to great lengths to source the best producers and suppliers in Scotland. Their menu is pure comfort food – sausages and mash, pies, gourmet burgers, and of course haggies, neeps and tatties.
Website: monstermashcafe.co.uk
Try their: Haggis with MUMS tower of mash, and puréed turnip
Price: £13 for their haggis, neeps and tatties
When it comes to finding the best haggis in Edinburgh, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Whether you prefer your haggis with neeps and tatties or a more modern twist, there’s a restaurant or cafe in Edinburgh that will serve up a dish that’s sure to satisfy. So, grab a glass of whisky and get ready to indulge in some of the best haggis that Scotland has to offer.
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