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.
Consisting of merely sugar, condensed milk and butter, tablet is a centuries-old Scottish treat similar to fudge, but with a crumblier consistency. An early record of it was found in The Household Book, an 18th century account of what domestic life was like in Scotland, written by Scottish songwriter Lady Grizel Baillie.
Tablet is nowadays available in confectionery shops all across the country and it often comes flavored with whisky, which makes it the perfect choice for rounding off any traditional Scottish holiday feast.
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.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Scottish Food Producers
Highland Charcuterie is a family-run business based in Oldshoremore, Kinlochbervie, Scotland. It was founded by Isabelle and Richard Flannery and specializes in producing artisanal cured meats and smoked products using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Isabelle started making charcuterie in 2004, initially for their hotel restaurant. As demand grew, they officially established the business in 2014. They source their meat from local producers in the Highland region. The products are handcrafted, and they often forage for wild ingredients such as wild garlic, seaweed, and wild berries.
AWARDS

Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2022
BEST Highland Charcuterie Meat Products
Charles Macleod is a renowned family business specializing in the production of traditional meat products, particularly famous for its iconic Stornoway Black Pudding, which has become well-known and highly regarded throughout the United Kingdom. The company was founded in 1947 and has since dedicated itself to producing high-quality meat products using authentic recipes passed down through generations.
The company takes great pride in its tradition and experience, crafting products with care and dedication to original methods. Stornoway Black Pudding is distinctive for its rich flavor and unique texture, and due to its quality, it has won numerous awards, including prestigious Great Taste Awards.
AWARDS

Great Taste Awards - 2 stars
2021, 2019

Great Taste Awards - 1 Star
2018
BEST Charles Macleod Cooked Sausages
Macsween is a family-run business in its third generation, specializing in the production of the traditional Scottish dish – haggis. It was founded by Charlie and Jean Macsween in 1953 in Edinburgh, and today it is run by their sons, John and Kate.
In 1984, Macsween developed the first vegetarian haggis, using a blend of vegetables, legumes, oats, seeds, and spices, making it popular among vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike. Macsween is also a pioneer in exporting haggis to international markets.
Today, Macsween produces various haggis varieties, including game, venison, gluten-free, and triple haggis, as well as vegetarian haggis, offering a wide range of options for enthusiasts of this traditional dish.
BEST Macsween Offal Dishes
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
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
BEST Ardbeg Spirits
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
Highland Charcuterie produces a distinctive product called Venison Juniper Salami. This salami is crafted from wild venison sourced from the Scottish Highlands, renowned for its robust and rich flavor profile. To enhance its unique taste, juniper berries are incorporated, adding a subtle hint of aromatic sharpness.
The salami is then smoked with traditional peat, infusing it with a deep, earthy smokiness that is characteristic of Highland culinary heritage. The combination of these elements results in a premium charcuterie product that reflects the natural beauty and flavors of the Scottish landscape.
AWARDS

Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2022
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
The Glenrothes 18-Year-Old Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is part of the Soleo Collection. It is matured in sherry-seasoned oak casks, offering a deep and complex profile. The whisky is known for flavors of dried fruit, vanilla, spice, and a hint of citrus, providing a smooth and luxurious finish.
It's an excellent choice for whisky enthusiasts who appreciate a well-aged and richly flavored single malt.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2022, 2020

USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2020
AWARDS

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

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Deanston 12-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a signature Highland expression, known for its smooth and honeyed profile. Aged in ex-bourbon casks, it presents flavors of creamy vanilla, fresh honey, and a hint of citrus, balanced by soft malt and subtle oak undertones.
This whisky is unchill-filtered and bottled at 46.3% ABV, preserving its rich, natural character. The Deanston 12-Year-Old is a versatile and approachable whisky, appealing to both newcomers and connoisseurs, with a warming, smooth finish that reflects Deanston’s commitment to quality and traditional craftsmanship.
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2021

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
AWARDS

SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
Sherry Cask 'The Bodega' is a stunning new addition to our core range of whiskies and is the perfect choice for someone who enjoys their Single Malt with plenty of body and complexity. Matured in some of the finest casks available to the whisky industry, this cask strength Sherry matured Single Malt is both luxurious and elegant with layers of rich sweet spice and oak.
Our Master Distiller has worked with producers in some of the most prestigious Sherry Bodegas in Jerez, Spain to select only the best quality casks to be filled with our precious spirit.
AWARDS

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

The Scotch Whisky Masters - Master
2023
AWARDS

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

SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier's Velvet Truffle – Caramel & Liquorice is a luxurious confection renowned for its distinctive combination of rich flavors. This truffle features a smooth caramel essence interwoven with the unique taste of liquorice, creating a harmonious and sophisticated palate experience.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and high-quality ingredients, the Velvet Truffle is a testament to Iain Burnett’s expertise in fine chocolate making.
AWARDS

International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2023, 2016
AWARDS

IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024

ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
















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 27, 2025, 3,281 ratings were recorded, of which 2,843 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.