TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Scottish Foods
Even though it has been traditionally prepared all along the coast, Cullen skink is a dish originating from the fishing village of Cullen in Northeastern Scotland. This thick and creamy fish soup is typically based on smoked haddock cooked with milk, leeks, onions, and potatoes which provide the filling bulk.
Some recipes specify the use of Arbroath smokies, although just about any smoked white fish will do. Cullen skink will go hand in hand with a glass of dry white wine, but to indulge in a true Scottish feast, try pairing it with Scotch whisky.
MOST ICONIC Cullen Skink
View moreThe dainty petticoat tails gained their peculiar name and distinctive shape by resembling the pieces of fabric used to create the elaborate 16th-century petticoats, including that of Mary Queen of Scots, who was reputed to have been particularly fond of these sweet, buttery shortbread biscuits.
However, another less romantic theory claims their name could've been derived from petits cotés, the old French term for little biscuits. Regardless of their real origins, petticoat tails remain a Scottish favorite until this day.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Afternoon tea
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Sticky toffee pudding is a rich, moist sponge cake filled with dates, covered in a sticky toffee sauce. The dessert is traditionally served with custard or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Its origins are quite murky as some claim it originates from the Sharrow Bay Hotel in the Lake District, some report that it's especially popular in Cartmel, while others say that it was invented at the Udny Arms Hotel in Aberdeenshire.
Today, the dessert is also popular in Australia, Ireland, and Scotland.
Seriously Strong Cheddar is a Scottish cheese produced in Stranraer. The cheese is made from pasteurized cow's milk. It ages from 18 to 24 months, and there are six different versions of the cheese – apart from the Seriously Strong one, there are also grated, spreadable, chili-flavored, smoked, and vintage Strong Cheddars.
The basic version is crumbly, firm, flaky, and dense. The aromas are rich and strong, while the flavor is full, tangy, and savory. It's recommended to serve it with crackers, use it in sandwiches, or add it into cooked dishes.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Cheddar
Fish and chips is a traditional dish consisting of freshly fried fish fillets and sliced fried potatoes. The fish is dipped in a batter of eggs, flour, and milk, and it’s then fried in oil, lard, or beef drippings. The most common types of fish used are cod, haddock, skate, and pollock, but cod is the most popular choice, with 60% of all fish and chips meals using it as the preferred fish.
Cod has a texture that is very supple, tender, and mild, and it makes for a great contrast to the crispy-fried batter shell. In addition, its tender meat nicely absorbs the condiments and seasonings such as malt vinegar and salt. You can find fish and chips made with cod throughout the country, but it’s especially popular in southern seaside towns such as Hastings and Brighton.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Fish and chips
Millionaire's shortbread or caramel shortbread is a classic Scottish dessert and one of the country's favorite treats whose main appeal lies in its different textures: the crumbly shortcake base, soft caramel in the middle, and the crisp chocolate top.
For the best millionaires' shortbread, a sprinkle of unrefined sea salt can be added to the sweet caramel as it brings out its creamy richness and at the same time complements the pure, smooth dark chocolate.
A full Scottish breakfast is a traditional and celebrated meal that typically includes bacon, link sausages, Lorne sausage (square sausage), black pudding, haggis, baked beans, fried mushrooms and tomatoes, toast, tattie scones, and fried eggs.
It highlights Scotland's rich culinary heritage and local ingredients. Dating back to the mid-19th century, it was a symbol of affluence and hospitality during Victorian times. This hearty meal is perfect for cold weather, providing essential nutrients and energy to start the day.
It's widely available across Scotland, from local cafés to Michelin-star restaurants.
Drop scones, also known as Scotch pancakes, are small, thick pancakes, made by dropping spoonfuls of batter onto a hot griddle or a frying pan. Originally invented in Scotland, these fluffy treats quickly spread throughout the British Isles - Queen Elizabeth herself is very fond of drop scones - allegedly, she even prepared them for President Dwight Eisenhower during his visit to Balmoral Castle in 1959.
Drop scones make a perfect breakfast, and they are best enjoyed warm. Although drop scones are very simple, when drizzled with honey or paired with cream and sweet fruits, they can easily be turned from a simple breakfast to an irresistible dessert.
The name of this traditional Scottish rooster and leek soup came into use in the 18th century, but the dish itself is said to date as far back as the 16th century. Back then, cock-a-leekie was cooked with the addition of onions, prunes, and even raisins.
The dish was most likely served as a two-course meal; first the broth, then meat. Also dubbed as cockie leekie, this Scottish classic was made famous for being one of the two choices of soup on the menu from the last first-class luncheon served on April 14, 1912 aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Known in full as stoved tatties, this Scottish one-pot dish of potatoes slowly stewed with onions, carrots and meat like mutton or beef was traditionally prepared to make use of the Sunday roast leftovers. Stovies come in two versions: the simpler barefoot or barfit stovies are made solely with potatoes and onions stewed in roast dripping, whereas the so-called high-heelers include plenty of meat.
In Aberdeen, stovies are traditionally served with oatcakes and milk.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Scottish Food Producers
Highland Park Distillery, located in Kirkwall on the Orkney Islands, Scotland, is one of the oldest distilleries in the country, founded in 1798. Known for its distinctively rich and smoky single malt whiskies, Highland Park combines traditional craftsmanship with the unique influence of Orkney’s coastal climate and local peat.
The distillery's whiskies are celebrated for their balance of heather honey sweetness and aromatic peat smoke, crafted using time-honored methods and aged in sherry-seasoned oak casks.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
BEST Highland Park Spirits
Loch Lomond Whiskies is a renowned Scottish whisky brand, celebrated for its high-quality single malt and blended whiskies. Based near the iconic Loch Lomond in the Scottish Highlands, the distillery draws inspiration from the region’s natural beauty and pure water source, which contribute to the distinct character of its whiskies.
The brand is known for its innovation in whisky production, utilizing unique distillation methods. One of their signature techniques is the use of a custom-designed still, called the “Loch Lomond still,” which allows for a wide range of flavor profiles, from rich and fruity to smooth and smoky.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023
Royal Salute is a blended Scotch whisky brand produced and bottled by Chivas Brothers in Strathisla Distillery in Speyside, Scotland. Royal Salute is a luxury Scotch whisky brand, launched in 1953 as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. Known for its exclusivity, Royal Salute only produces whiskies aged 21 years or more, combining elegance and quality.
The brand celebrates British heritage through special releases and collaborations in art, fashion, and polo. Each bottle reflects a dedication to craftsmanship and tradition, catering to connoisseurs worldwide.
AWARDS

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2021, 2020, 2019

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Ardbeg is a renowned Scottish whisky distillery from the island of Islay, celebrated for the intensely smoky and distinctive flavor of its products. Founded in 1815, the distillery is recognized for its unique process of drying barley over a peat fire, which imparts a singular aroma and richness to their whiskies.
With numerous awards and a loyal fan base worldwide, Ardbeg whisky is hailed as one of the most esteemed representations of the Islay style, often described as a true delight for peat lovers.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
John Dewar & Sons, established in 1846 in Perth, Scotland, by John Dewar, is a prominent name in the Scotch whisky industry. The company expanded rapidly under the leadership of John’s sons, Alexander and Tommy, who successfully promoted the brand worldwide.
In 1998, Dewar & Sons became part of Bacardi and continues to thrive with operations across Scotland. The company owns five distilleries: Aberfeldy, Aultmore, Craigellachie, Macduff, and Royal Brackla, contributing to its rich heritage in whisky production.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023
Glengoyne Distillery is a renowned whisky distillery located in the Scottish Highlands, just north of Glasgow, known for its commitment to crafting exceptional single malt Scotch whisky. The distillery, which has been in operation since 1833, produces whiskies that are celebrated for their smoothness, depth, and complexity.
What sets Glengoyne apart is its traditional approach to whisky-making, particularly its focus on slow maturation. The distillery uses copper pot stills to distill its whisky and matures it in oak casks that are carefully chosen to impart unique flavors.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
Glen Moray is a Scottish whisky distillery located in the heart of the Speyside region, renowned for producing exceptional single malt whiskies. Established in 1897, the distillery utilizes traditional distillation methods to craft whiskies with a distinctive, rich, and fruity flavor profile.
Glen Moray is committed to its long heritage and artisanal approach, with its whisky aging in carefully selected casks to develop its unique taste.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
BEST Glen Moray Spirits
Old Pulteney distillery is a malt whisky production and aging facility in the Pulteneytown area of Wick, Caithness, in the Highland area of Scotland. The distillery produces the Old Pulteney single malt whisky at a number of ages and has a visitor centre in Huddart Street.
The distillery was established in 1826 in the name of Sir William Pulteney. The distillery was the most northerly on the Scottish mainland and was quite inaccessible, except by sea.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023
BEST Old Pulteney Spirits
The GlenAllachie Distillery, located in Speyside, Scotland, produces single malt Scotch whisky under the guidance of master distiller Billy Walker. Known for its traditional craftsmanship, The GlenAllachie emphasizes long, patient maturation in various cask types to enhance complex flavors.
Each whisky expression, from core collections to limited editions, reflects a commitment to quality and innovation in the Scotch whisky world.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2020

The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2024, 2022
Eden Mill is a Scottish distillery and brewery located in St Andrews, Fife, known for producing premium gins, whiskies, and beers. Established in 2012, it was the first to make spirits in the region in over 150 years. The distillery emphasizes sustainability, utilizing renewable energy sources and collaborating with local companies to repurpose by-products.
Eden Mill's products, such as their coastal gins and distinctive single malt whisky, draw inspiration from the local landscape, incorporating botanicals sourced from around the distillery. In June 2023, they began constructing a new distillery and visitor center on the banks of the River Eden, aiming to become operational later in 2024.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
BEST Eden Mill Spirits
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Scottish Food Products
The Highland Park 21-Year-Old 2022 release is a complex and mature whisky crafted from 14 casks laid down in 2000 and earlier. It opens with aromas of espresso, dark chocolate, and marmalade, followed by ginger and oriental spice from sherry-seasoned oak.
Sweet citrus and cedar notes from ex-bourbon barrels add complexity, with heather-infused peat smoke tying it all together. It's an exceptional example of Highland Park's craftsmanship, combining three distinctive cask types.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2024

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
Talisker 30 YO is an extremely rare, well-matured single malt bottled in strictly limited quantities. Three decades of purposeful, skilled ageing have nurtured and gently shaped this visceral whisky, created in celebration of the highest summit in Skye.
In it's lofty heights, the wild and untamed nature of this fascinating island is revealed in all its glory, and so Talisker 30 YO is also among the absolute best that Skye has to offer.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023

The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2024

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024, 2023
Perfumed aromas of luscious tropical fruit flow on the breeze, while curious notes of herbal incense and smoke follow closely behind. Menthol lozenge and saddle soap laps over charred green pepper, before smoked mango, guava and coconut mingle in an effervescing top note.
A creamy mouthfeel leads the way into a crashing symphony of herbal, spicy flavours. Smoked maple cured bacon, charcoal, white pepper and clove rush forth amid gentle overtones of the outdoors in wood smoke and sea spray. A satisfyingly long finish welcomes more tropical notes, with fragrant heather, warm toffee and smoked butter on the horizon.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2020
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Whisky Highball Gold
2024, 2023

The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2023

USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2020
Distiller, Robert Fleming, carefully selects the finest American oak ex-bourbon barrels to mature Tomintoul 21 Year Old Single Malt, resulting in an award-winning whisky. It features fresh citrus fruits on the nose, sweet toffee on the palate, and finishes with a gentle spicy warmth.
On the nose, expect aromas of nougat, ruby grapefruit, and cranberry, while the palate delights with baked apple, honeycomb, and Danish pastries, finishing with hints of apple strudel, cedar spice, and cinnamon.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Whiskey Gold Trophy
2023
Loch Lomond 12 Years Old Inchmoan whisky comes from the Loch Lomond distillery, known for its ability to blend traditional methods with innovative distillation techniques, creating exceptional whiskies that carry the authentic character of the Scottish Highlands region.
Inchmoan 12 Year Old is a whisky that embodies the essence of smoky, layered flavors, offering a rich and unforgettable tasting experience.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Blended from over 50 of Scotland’s most exceptional malt and grain whiskies, the deep and complex flavour profile echoes the time-honoured tradition of the 62 Gun Salute. An explosion of power, bursting with a zenith of intense sweet orange, mingles with a superb depth of nutty, oaky flavour.
Just a sensation of smoke evokes a top dressing of distinction.
AWARDS

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Whiskey Gold Trophy
2023
Highland Park’s 18-Year-Old Viking Pride single malt whisky is known for its rich layers of baked cherries, dark chocolate, and salted honeycomb, with hints of orange zest and heathered peat smoke. This full-bodied whisky matures in sherry-seasoned European and American oak casks, creating a balanced complexity.
It has won multiple prestigious awards and is loved for its depth and smooth, slightly spicy finish.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024

The Scotch Whisky Masters - Gold
2022
AWARDS

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021, 2019

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2020


















TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 Scottish Foods” list until April 06, 2025, 3,253 ratings were recorded, of which 2,811 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.