As Burns Night approaches, London venues are set to honour Scotland’s national poet with a range of exquisite culinary experiences and cultural festivities.
As the celebration of Scotland’s beloved poet Robert Burns approaches, London residents and visitors alike can look forward to an array of events commemorating this tradition on Burns Night, which falls on the 25th of January. This year, the festivities take on special significance as it marks Burns’ 265th birthday. Various venues across the city have planned immersive experiences that promise both traditional Scottish cuisine and an engaging ambience rich in culture.
Among the notable participants is Mount St Restaurant in Mayfair, which will be offering a lavish four-course menu from 20-25 January. Highlights include Orkney scallops, Highland venison, and haggis sausage paired with neeps and tatties. Diners can opt to celebrate in the intimate Scottish Room, beautifully decorated with a custom tartan, handcrafted lighting, and a nine-metre oak dining table reminiscent of the Highlands.
Langan’s Brasserie, another Mayfair establishment, is also joining in the festivities with a bespoke menu that includes Scottish whisky-cured salmon and the traditional haggis, neeps, and tatties. Guests will be welcomed with bagpipe music and can indulge in a range of desserts featuring local flavours, all while listening to recitals and traditional songs.
The Connaught Grill is poised to impress with a six-course menu that utilizes premium Scottish produce in conjunction with Aberfeldy whisky pairings. The culinary journey starts with Scottish glazed haggis dumplings and culminates in a flambéed dessert of Crêpes Suzette. Guests can opt for a whisky flight that complements each course.
Scarfes Bar at Rosewood London, recognised as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars for 2024, will pay homage to Burns with a unique cheese and whisky pairing offering, running through the month. The highlight will occur on Burns Night itself, featuring live recitals and a selection of Aberfeldy whiskies showcased alongside artisanal cheeses.
In Marylebone, Home House will host its annual Burns Night Supper, featuring a four-course meal that includes classic dishes such as cullen skink and cranachan cheesecake, complemented by the performance of the club’s own piper. This will provide a lavish setting for an evening dedicated to honouring Burns’ life and legacy.
Fitz’s Brasserie at Kimpton Fitzroy London is collaborating with Bladnoch Distillery for an exclusive supper club on 23 January, integrating live bagpiping, whisky pairings, and a carefully crafted four-course menu that reinterprets traditional Scottish fare.
Additionally, the theatrical Mr Fogg’s across London is offering a whisky-soaked menu inspired by Burns, featuring signature cocktails such as the Hat Dram and Bard’s Nectar. The venues will also host live bagpipe performances and the ceremonial Address to the Haggis.
The Great Central Pub at The Landmark will serve up a special à la carte menu featuring classics like gin and juniper cured salmon and haggis, neeps, and tatties over the span of three days from 24-26 January.
For those looking for a more casual setting, The Sun Tavern in Bethnal Green is collaborating with Deeney’s on a unique Burns Night menu that includes authentic cocktails and complimentary haggis bites. The evening promises a lively atmosphere with a live musical performance.
Ham Yard Hotel’s celebration, in partnership with Macallan whisky, will take place on 24 January, spotlighting a five-course meal enriched by expertly paired whiskies, allowing guests to experience the flavours of Scotland within the heart of Soho.
Other venues, including Rails Restaurant in Kings Cross and The Wolseley in Piccadilly, have also developed special offerings on the night, showcasing the breadth of Scottish cuisine and culture.
As restaurants and bars across London prepare, Burns Night promises to deliver a unique cultural experience, providing not only traditional meals but also an engaging atmosphere filled with music and celebration.
Source: Noah Wire Services
Image: Ham Yard Hotel