Scotland truly like to do their own thing and Scottish street food is a testament to this. Yes there are some similarities with England, but these not only often come with a twist, but many have even been exported south.
As always and particularly in Europe we have taken a broad look at what constitutes street food, as per this article. This means food trucks, chippies, bakeries and even a grass spoon cut the mustard.
As such I have put together my top 20 Scottish street food dishes that need to be tried when you head up north..
To read about the best English street food click here.
20 Best Scottish Street Food dishes
20. Black Pudding
Often served in rolls or alongside breakfast items, black pudding is a rich blood sausage made from pork fat and oatmeal. While traditionally part of a full Scottish breakfast, it has found its way into the street food scene, with vendors offering black pudding wraps or rolls.
19. Venison Burgers
Scotland’s rural areas are known for their wild game, and venison burgers are a popular street food item, especially at farmers’ markets and festivals. These burgers are usually served with locally sourced toppings like whisky-infused mustard.
18. Tattie Scones
Also known as potato scones, tattie scones are a breakfast favorite in Scotland and can often be found on street food menus. These scones are usually served in a sandwich or wrap alongside bacon and eggs.
17. Arbroath Smokies
A type of smoked haddock, Arbroath smokies are a Scottish delicacy often available from street food stalls near the east coast. Served hot and fresh, they’re a flavorful, smoky treat perfect for seafood lovers.
16. Deep-Fried Haggis
Another twist on the national dish, deep-fried haggis is commonly found at street food vendors. Coated in batter and deep-fried to golden perfection, it’s a crispy take on the traditional haggis and perfect for quick bites.
15. Oatcakes with Cheese
Scottish oatcakes are thin, savory biscuits made from oats, often topped with local cheeses like crowdie or cheddar. They’re a popular street food snack at markets, showcasing Scotland’s love of simple, hearty ingredients.
14. Mac ‘n’ Cheese
While not traditionally Scottish, mac ‘n’ cheese has been embraced by the country’s street food scene. Many vendors put a Scottish twist on this comfort food by adding haggis, black pudding, or whisky sauce.
To read about the best Mac N Cheese in Nha Trang click here.
13. Cullen Skink Croquettes
A bite-sized street food version of the famous Cullen skink soup, these croquettes are filled with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, then fried to perfection. It’s a modern twist on a classic dish.
12. Irn-Bru Pulled Pork
Some Scottish street food vendors have embraced the nation’s iconic soda, Irn-Bru, using it as a glaze or marinade for pulled pork. The sweet and tangy flavor of Irn-Bru gives the pork a unique, distinctly Scottish twist.
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11. Langoustine Tacos
Scotland’s waters are rich in seafood, and langoustine tacos are a delicious fusion street food option. Grilled langoustines (a type of lobster) served in soft tortillas with fresh herbs and sauces make for a tasty, coastal-inspired treat.
10. Scotch Pie
A savory meat pie made from spiced lamb or mutton, Scotch pies are perfect street food for their portability and hearty filling. They’re a staple at football matches, as well as festivals.
9. Stovies
Often served in takeaway cups or bowls, stovies are a comforting mix of potatoes, onions, and leftover meat. This dish is a warming option that’s perfect for Scottish street food markets.
8. Lorne Sausage Roll
A street food favorite, Lorne sausage (or square sausage) is sometimes served in rolls or as a standalone snack, making it a convenient option for people on the move.
7. Haggis Bon Bons
These haggis bon bons are deep-fried, crispy bites of haggis served with a dipping sauce like whisky mustard or sweet chili, making them a popular snack at Scottish food stalls.Is there anything you cannot do with haggis?
6. Battered Mars Bar
Perhaps Scotland’s most notorious street food export, the battered Mars bar is a deep-fried candy bar that’s become a global sensation for its indulgent, guilty-pleasure appeal. In fairness this entrant could just be “battered” with Scotland seemingly battering literally anything now.
5. Cullen Skink
Some vendors have made Cullen skink more street food-friendly by serving the creamy, smoked haddock soup in a cup. It’s a hearty and flavorful seafood option.
4. Cranachan Crepes
Inspired by the traditional Scottish dessert, cranachan crepes are filled with a mix of raspberries, cream, honey, and oats, offering a portable and sweet Scottish treat.
3. Smoked Salmon Bagels
Scotland’s renowned smoked salmon finds a place in street food with bagels stuffed with fresh salmon, cream cheese, and capers—a simple but delicious snack.
2. Fish Supper
The Scottish fish supper is a classic take on fish and chips, featuring battered fish (usually haddock or cod) with thick-cut chips. Much like England the fish can be substituted for pies, or of course a saveloy! It’s one of the most iconic and widely loved street food dishes in the country.
1. Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties
Scotland’s national dish—haggis, neeps, and tatties—is often reimagined for street food. More a national dish than a street food, particularly at New Year it can though be eaten as a warp, so not only sneaks in as a best Scottish Street Food, but is number 1 and therefore THE Scottish street food.
So there you have it, the top 20 Scottish street food that you simply have to try when you go north of Hadrians wall.