From cocktails to ceilidhs, here’s how to spend Burns Night in London
These are the best Scottish hotels, restaurants and bars bringing a touch of the Caledonian to the capital this January…
Words: Jonathan Wells
“Fair and full is your honest, jolly face,” begins Robert Burns’ Address to a Haggis. “Great chieftain of the sausage race!”
He’s not wrong. Scotland’s favourite savoury pudding rarely disappoints — especially when paired with the scores of side dishes and delicacies that make up a classic Burns Night dinner. From Cullen Skink to Cranachan, January 25th offers foodies the chance to celebrate one of Britain’s best poets in sumptuous, culinary style.
To ensure you make the most of the whisky-soaked day, we’ve looked high-and-low in London for the most authentic, worthwhile offerings. And, from a couple of pubs to Michelin-starred fine dining, here are the best hotels, restaurants and grills bringing a touch of the Caledonian to the capital…
Gourmet Burns Night at The Jugged Hare
Where’s it being held? At one of London’s leading gastropubs; Barbican’s Grade II-listed The Jugged Hare. With luxurious red leather seats and a collection of stuffed animals, there’s a touch of rural Scotland about the place.
What’s on the menu? A six-course, traditional Burns Night dinner — beginning with rosemary bannock served with Highland Park butter, then onto scallop pie, lamb cutlets with haggis farci, bashed neeps, champit and tatties.
Who should head along? The non-traditionalists. Though subtle, these are spins on classic Scottish dishes — so may not appeal to the purists. But the pairing of the plates with French and German wines may prove a masterstroke.
Burns Night at Galvin Bar & Grill
Where’s it being held? In the decadent 100-cover dining room of the Kimpton Fitzroy London Hotel. Here, on the corner of Russell Square, Michelin-starred brothers Chris and Jeff Galvin promise a stylish Scottish celebration.
What’s on the menu? Another traditional-tasting feast. But, once more, there are twists on the classics — with Buckfast-braised short rib of Scottish beef with rumbledethumps being perhaps the most mouth-watering.
Who should head along? Existing fans of Galvin Bar & Grill — or Scottish expatriates. Both will benefit from the national nostalgia of this menu, whilst simultaneously enjoying the fine-dining flourishes that comes along with it.
Tandoor Chop House's Burns Night collaboration with Auld Hag
Where’s it being held? One of central London’s most popular Indian restaurants, in Covent Garden. The wood-paneled purveyor of refined Indian food has collaborated with with Scottish kitchen Auld Hag for Burns Night.
What’s on the menu? A haggis-stuffed naan, topped with mustard pickled swede, parsnip butter and (unconventionally paired with haggis), peas and mint. The dish will also be paired with a Laphroaig Whisky and Ginger.
Who should head along? Those with the stomach for spice. Because, while you’re there, you can also order the Amritsari crispy lamb chops and masala boti rubbed ribeye — and don’t forget a bone marrow naan.
The Sun Tavern x Aberfeldy Burns Night menu
Where’s it being held? In the heart of Bethnal Green. Cocktail bar The Sun Tavern may be famous for having London’s largest selection of Irish whiskey, but it’s pivoting to highlight these spirits’ Celtic cousins this January.
What’s on the menu? There’ll be free haggis bites on offer. But it’s the one-day-only cocktail menu (created in collaboration with Aberfeldy) you really want to try, with drinks including ‘Sweet Afton’, ‘Cranachan’ and ‘Bobby Burns’.
Who should head along? Those with a penchant for poetry. As, after you’ve washed down some whisky, there will be an ‘Address To The Haggis’ and a rendition or two of Burns’ best work to round the night off.
Burns Night festivities at Seven Park Place by William Drabble
Where’s it being held? William Drabble’s Michelin-starred Seven Park Place — a restaurant best-known for whipping up fine French food. But, for Burns Night, there’s a Scottish influence infused throughout the menu.
What’s on the menu? It begins in Bar 1857, where a Dalmore Port Wood Mackenzie Highball will kick off the evening. And, for the main event? Haggis Raviolo, with confit turnips and a Dalmore 12-year single malt and thyme jus.
Who should head along? Those used to more delicate dishes — who may not enjoy working through a small mountain of neeps and tatties. This cuisine is refined and reinvented; Scottish fusion food.
The Savoy x Bowmore Burns Night Dinner
Where’s it being held? One of London’s most iconic grand hotels — and the only five-star hotel on the river. The Savoy has spent over a century building a great gastronomic reputation, and this offering is among its best.
What’s on the menu? Created in collaboration with Bowmore, the five-course meal kicks off with a dram or two of choice whisky — before delving into classic Scottish dishes, each with a Savoy twist and whisky pairings.
Who should head along? The Scottish diehards. Because, following the poetry and Ceilidh dancing, there’s even an opportunity to win stay for two at the incredible Fairmont St Andrews.
Burns Night House Parties by The Little Door & Co
Where’s it being held? In two locations across London; The Little Blue Door (Fulham) and its sister venue The Little Orange Door (Clapham). Expect a supper club, including the piping in of the haggis — and then a house party.
What’s on the menu? Scotch broth with thyme-infused pulled lamb followed by the traditional Scottish haggis served with nutty neeps, tatties and a peppery whisky sauce. For dessert? What else — an indulgent Cranachan.
Who should head along? Those who like a party. Because not only will a DJ be taking to the decks after your meal to soundtrack this good old-fashioned knees-up, there’s even a prize for the best-dressed guest. Dig out the tartan.
Want more whisky to celebrate Scotland? Here are the 12 steps you should follow for the ultimate whisky tasting…
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