FOOD : A Burns Supper ain't just for January!
As a proud Scots lassie and a local food, whisky, and travel blogger here in the heart of Edinburgh, one question I get asked all the time is this: "Where’s the best spot to tuck into Scotland’s national dish—haggis, neeps, and tatties?" Now, during the lead-up to Burns Night at the end of January, this is a doddle to answer. But outside that celebratory season, it can get a wee bit trickier to guide folks to the perfect plate.
Sure, there are some world-renowned restaurants in Edinburgh serving up haggis and bustling with visitors almost every night of the year. But not all of them capture that special connection between haggis and our beloved bard, Rabbie Burns. That’s where Angels Share, located in Edinburgh’s West End, steps up to the plate—literally. They’ve unveiled their "Address to the Haggis" Sharing Platter, a beautifully presented homage to this iconic dish.
REVIEW OF THE ADDRESS TO THE HAGGIS SHARING SUPPER AT ANGELS SHARE
Our server kindly lets us know that the haggis requires a 20-minute cooking time—ideal for allowing us to explore some tempting starters in the meantime. We decided to kick things off with a simple yet flavourful bowl of Marinated Olives (£4.00). But staying true to the Scottish theme, we simply couldn’t resist indulging in a plate of Haggis Pakora served alongside a punchy Irn Bru Chilli Jam (£7.00). The pakora’s crispy exterior perfectly complements the bold, spiced kick of the haggis, while the sweet heat of the Irn Bru chilli jam adds a uniquely Scottish twist to the dish. An appetizing prelude to the main event!
Their "Address to the Haggis" platter is designed for sharing between two, priced at £19 per person, with an optional whisky flight to complete the experience for an additional £18.50. The sharing board is a true celebration of Scottish flavours, featuring a traditional haggis bung alongside crushed neeps infused with brown butter, creamy mashed potato with mustard, and a topping of crispy shredded potato skins—all brought together with a rich whisky gravy.
To make the experience even more special, it arrives with a scroll containing an abbreviated version of Robert Burns' "Address to a Haggis"—perfect for a wee cultural touch without the full recital. Our server ceremoniously delivers the platter, cutting open the haggis right at the table, releasing its unmistakable peppery, earthy aroma. It’s a moment of drama and delight, perfectly matched to the theatrical spirit of Rabbie Burns himself! This is more than a meal; it’s an ode to Scottish tradition served with flair.
Now, haggis, neeps, and tatties might not seem like much at first glance, but trust me, it’s hearty fare—proper "stick-to-your-ribs" kind of food, as my mum would say. It’s the sort of meal that warms you up from the inside out and leaves you satisfyingly full. And let’s not forget, it’s perfectly matched with a good dram of whisky, which not only complements the earthy, peppery flavours but also helps it all go down a treat. I chose to have a single dram of Highland Park 12yo (£6.60) instead of a flight and it was a great companion with its balanced profile of gentle peat smoke, honeyed sweetness and citrus notes complementing the earthy, peppery flavours of the haggis.
All in all, this is a cracking 'Burns Supper' experience that you can enjoy any time of the year. The haggis is cooked to perfection, and the presentation is absolutely on point for anyone seeking a truly authentic taste of a Scottish haggis supper. That said, if I had my way, I’d leave out the mustard in the mash. For me, there’s nothing quite like smooth, creamy, and perfectly seasoned tatties to round out the dish. But hey, that’s just a personal preference!
It’s a feast worthy of the poet himself and perfect for those wanting a taste of Scotland’s culinary heritage. Slàinte mhath!
THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT ANGELS SHARE - ADDRESS TO THE HAGGIS
If you bring the Address to the Haggis scroll back with you for another dining experience, you will receive £10 off your bill!
There is no vegetarian haggis option
Book via their website - www.angelssharehotel.com/food-and-drink
Angels Share, 7-11 Hope Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4EL www.angelssharehotel.com
My Spoon Award : Silver 8/10
I was invited by Angels Share to review their menu. Food and drink were complimentary but the views are very much my own.
TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.
Adele is a writer, reviewer and judge living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events), is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers, Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards. Should you wish to work with, invite or collaborate with TartanSpoon, please email tartanspoon@yahoo.co.uk