This post is an ode to my favorite travel destination, Edinburgh, Scotland. Not only is Edinburgh rich in history and culture, but the people of Scotland are truly unique in their kindness and generosity. The entirety of my experience in Edinburgh was a fever dream of fascination, awe, and envy (of all those who get to call Edinburgh "home"). From a foodie's perspective, Edinburgh was a plethora of flavors. From Haggis to Scottish whisky, stepping out of my comfort zone (food-wise) was essential to get the "true Scottish food experience."
Getting into Edinburgh at 6:30 a.m. called for an early bird breakfast, so while
exploring the center of town, hidden among the cobblestone streets and hanging lights, was a quaint cafe that looked perfect for a sit-down breakfast.
In a sea of pink, blue, and green, I sat in Hula Juice Bar & Healthy Eatery, looking out into the streets of Edinburgh as the sun rose and locals started to filter in and open up their shops. Needless to say, I instantly fell in love with this unexpected breakfast shop that sat in the middle of town, overlooking the streets that were about to fill with light and laughter. Hula Juice Bar and Healthy eatery offered various breakfast and lunch options, so to get a little taste of both, I ordered two dishes, one sweet and one savory. While I could have chosen every option on the menu, I ordered the banana & Nutella pancakes (drizzled with chocolate and dried raspberries) and avocado toast (smashed avocado, lime, sea salt, chili, chia, and sesame seeds, and a poached egg). Between the pancakes and toast, my stomach was happy, and my body was fueled to take the two-hour hike up Arthur's seat that awaited me. Hula Juice Bar & Healthy Eatery was a fantastic place to eat because it offered a dining experience of refreshing and tasteful food, all while enjoying the scenery of the center town of Edinburgh.
After an afternoon of exploring Edinburgh, I felt more immersed in the Scottish culture than in any other place I had traveled to before, and of course, what is a more Scottish
meal than whisky and haggis? Absolutely nothing! I traveled across town and found Copper Still, a restaurant serving fresh Scottish food daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner using local suppliers. Copper Still is located right in the middle of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace and is moments away from Edinburgh Castle, St Giles Cathedral, and Parliament Square. Not only does the restaurant's location make you feel like you're in a Hallmark movie, but the ambiance and food create the perfect Scottish (food) experience. At Copper Still, I got hummus and flatbread (something comfortable as a crutch to the haggis), haggis bon bons (yes, a Scottish dish consisting of a sheep's or calf's offal mixed with suet, oatmeal, and seasoning and boiled in a bag, traditionally one made from the animal's stomach), and a flight of Scottish whisky. The hummus and flatbread were fresh and filling, serving as the perfect appetizer. As for the haggis, the stigma around knowing just what was in this Scottish dish staple made me a bit dizzy; however, the food exceeded expectations and tasted (sort of) like a meatball. Pairing haggis with a flight of Scottish whiskey was testing my stomach's ability to handle new substances. Still, it turned out that haggis is not merely as gross as it sounds, and Scottish whisky is most certainly more potent than believed. I would encourage any foodie to step out of their comfort zone and try haggis, and although it may not be the most delicious, it encapsulates the authentic Scottish food experience.
What better way to top off a full day in Edinburgh than with some celebratory cider? After a hike up Arthur's seat, an ancient volcano that is the central peak of the group of hills in Edinburgh, my legs needed a break, and I needed a drink! Standing tall with a
charming facade, Cold Town House was right below the hill atop Edinburgh Castle. Cold Town House is a casual stop with a rooftop terrace serving pizza with creative toppings, prosecco & craft beers. Walking into Cold Town House is amazingly overwhelming, with pops of bright colors, loud chatter, and traditional Scottish music. While choosing which drink to choose from, the bartender gave us a recommendation of Rekorderlig strawberries and lime cider, a refreshing cider served over ice. Between the ambiance and refreshing sparkle of the cider, Cold Town House is the perfect spot to stop and grab a quick pint or sit down for a few hours and enjoy the scenery.
Overall, my time in Scotland exceeded all expectations. Edinburgh was a crossover of enchanted fairytales and old-time dungeons and quickly became a bucket list destination. Scottish food and drinks are about spending time with those around you and enjoying not just the food but the beautiful scenery that Scotland offers. From rolling hills to cobblestone roads, I will forever be dreaming about Edinburgh until I get the opportunity to go back. I encourage everyone, if given the opportunity, to travel to Scotland and eat as many exotic and soul-filling foods as possible. Always remember that food is fuel for the body, and good food is fuel for the soul.
Sincerely,
Scotland
Photo credits: All photos were taken by author Ashley Corso.
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