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How many have you tried? Nine dishes on the Scottish food check-list

Written by
Alison Maclean
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Scottish cuisine undoubtedly has a lot to offer but how many of the traditional choices have you tried? Whether a you're proud countryman or just here for a visit, make sure you complete this check-list of traditional Scottish food.

Savoury

The deep fried Mars bar
It may be controversial, but you can't argue that Scotland has cemented itself as the home of the deep-fried Mars bar. It's not for the faint hearted, but those with sufficient gastronomic bravery can venture down to Cafe Piccante on Broughton Street to sample this local delicacy.

The Fish Supper 
A delicious way to round off any night and the city is overflowing with options. The 'best' supplier is a matter of much debate, but names that crop up time and time again are: The Tailend on Leith Walk, The Codfather near Summerhall, Franco's in Stockbridge and L'Alba D'Oro near Canonmills.

Haggis
Even the most hardy carnivore may not want to look too closely at how haggis is made, but whether sampling the full meat version or its vegetarian counterpart, the famous producers Macsween should be your first port of call. With such a plentiful supply of haggis dishes offered at cafés and restaurants, there's far too many to list, but Arcade Haggis and Whiskey House on Cockburn Street is the only establishment solely dedicated to the delicacy. For those with a sweeter tooth, Coco and The Chocolate Tree, both conveniently found on Bruntsfield Place, offer haggis (spice) chocolates.

Porridge
Start your day right with stalwart porridge, which is on offer for breakfast at many cafés across the city. If you do make your own, Scott's Porage Oats are a reliable choice.

Sweet

Shortbread
As far as biscuits go, shortbread provides the more exciting of the patriotic options (for oatcakes Arran or Nairn's are a good bet). The Shortbread House of Edinburgh may be good enough for Fortnum and Mason but for your true artisan product Pinnies and Poppy Seeds on St Mary's Street can't be beaten.

Cranachan
The traditional Scottish dessert usually features whipped cream, whisky, honey, raspberries and toasted oats. It can be enjoyed in truffle form at The Chocolate Tree.

Irn-Bru
Whilst you can pick up a bottle of Irn-Bru in most shops, a more interesting way to sample the country's (second) national drink is at S. Luca on Morningside Road, whose Irn-Bru sorbet provides a refreshing pick-me-up.

Tablet
Tooth-achingly sweet and crumbly, Scottish tablet is a must try. The Fudge House on the Royal Mile follows a traditional recipe for their Butter Tablet and with the delectable array of confectionery on offer, you'll leave with your pockets laden.

Rock
Another sugar-laden pride of the city is Edinburgh Rock, which can be procured from (among others) Lickety Splits on Jeffrey Street - and don't forget to buy some Soor Plooms while you’re at it.

Don't forget about Scotland's national drink - see Time Out's guide to Edinburgh's best whisky bars to find out where to get a wee dram.

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