Superb spots to raise a dram to the poet, Robert Burns.
In Scotland and around the world, Burns Night is celebrated on 25 January. The festival celebrates the life and work of the Scottish poet, Robert Burns. The first event was held in 1801, and is now a staple in the culinary calendar. Traditionally, the evening includes a reading of Selkirk Grace and Address to a Haggis, a bagpipe player welcomes the haggis, and a wee dram (or three). The night concludes with Auld Lang Syne. Here are the best places to celebrate Burns Night in London. Slàinte.
Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill
Bentley’s Oyster Bar and Grill is a sophisticated spot in Piccadilly. The restaurant first opened in 1916 and in 2005, it went under the ownership of Richard Corrigan. At its heart is spectacular seafood and prime meats. Each year, the restaurant hosts a special Burns Night supper. Dishes include Haggis with neaps and tatties, whiskey flights and a cèilidh.
GO: Visit www.bentleys.org for more information.
Boisdale
For the taste and sounds of Scotland in London, head to Boisdale for a brilliant Burns Night in London. Located in Belgravia and Canary Wharf, it boasts Scottish-inspired interiors. The restaurant is decked out in tartan carpets, leather chairs and original artwork. During the week leading up to the event, guests can enjoy dishes ranging from Cullen Skink to Dumfriesshire Blackface Haggis.
GO: Visit www.boisdale.co.uk for more information.
Covent Garden Hotel
Covent Garden Hotel hosts the Burns Night Diner with Bruichladdich on 23 January. Taking place in a private dining room in the hotel, guests can enjoy a live spoken word from award-winning Scottish poet Kevin McLean. The menu has been created by the Scottish Head Chef Martin Sweeney. Dishes include Isle of Mull Cheddar Croquettes, Scottish Pie, and Haggis with Neeps and Tatties.
GO: Visit www.firmdalehotels.com for more information.
Galvin Bistro and Bar
Celebrate Burns Night at one of the Galvin brothers' top restaurants. The team have an excellent portfolio of restaurants, which are influenced by French cuisine. On 25 January, they celebrate Scotland, and Galvin Bistrot and Bar combines comfort with classics. In the bistro-style setting, guests can enjoy a Scottish four-course menu and the sound of live bagpipes.
GO: Visit https://galvinrestaurants.com for more information.
Galvin La Chapelle
The Galvin brothers are going all out for Burns Night. The team have an excellent portfolio of restaurants, which are influenced by French cuisine. On 25 January, they celebrate all things Scottish. Galvin La Chapelle serves up fine dining dishes ranging from Isle of Harris gin-cured salmon with Oscietra caviar, to Rump of Lamb with haggis. And, of course, live bagpipes.
GO: Visit https://galvinrestaurants.com for more information
Mount St. Restaurant
Mount St. Restaurant prides itself on creating great British food. In the run-up to Burns Night, it turns its attention to Scotland. Located in Mayfair, the Burns Night menu is served from 19 to 25 January. Enjoy seared Orkney Scallop with Cullen Skink, Venison and Haggis Pie with neeps and tatties, Isle of Mull Cheddar with oatcakes and heather honeycomb, and Rhubarb and Stem Ginger Tipsy Laird.
GO: Visit https://mountstrestaurant.com for more information.
The Carpenters Arms
Celebrate Burns Night in London at The Carpenter’s Arms. Guests can dig into a seasonal specials menu, running all week from 19 to 25 January. It's a chance to toast the poet himself, Robert Burns. Start your evening with a Haggis Scotch Egg, Aberdeen Angus beef, Balmoral Chicken, and Dundee Cake. Every dish is crafted by the Head Chef, Atos, to showcase Scottish flavours and traditions. On 20 January, Jamie Kelly will be playing the bagpipes.
GO: Visit www.thecarpentersarms-w6.co.uk for more information.
The Surprise
The Surprise marks Burns Night with a full week of Scottish-inspired specials. Running from 19 to 25 January, it will serve specials all week alongside a seasonal à la carte and roast menu. Expect dishes that honour the great Robert Burns. Dig into a traditional haggis with all the trimmings, Aberdeen Angus beef, and Cranachan. Plus, there will be a wee menu of whisky cocktails. The full Burns Night experience takes place on 21 January with Jamie Kelly on the bagpipes.
GO: Visit www.thesurprise-chelsea.co.uk for more information.
The Wolseley
When you step into The Wolseley, it feels like you are stepping back in time. Located on Piccadilly, it's famous for its breakfast, but each year, it puts together a brilliant Burns Night dinner. On 25 January, the menu features Scottish dishes and produce. Dishes include the rich soup, Cullen Skink; Haggis, Neeps and Tatties with a dram of whisky; and Cranachan with raspberries, cream, honey, oats, whisky and heather. Plus, the cocktail menu is inspired by Burns and uses fine whiskeys.
GO: Visit www.thewolseley.com for more information.
Walmer Castle
Walmer Castle is celebrating throughout the week. From 19 to 25 January, guests can dig into a series of specials alongside the à la carte menu. Expect hearty plates of haggis and Aberdeen Angus beef. On 22 January, there will be whisky cocktails galore, from the bold to the smoky, and there'll even be whisky cocktails on tap. On 25 January, there will be a seasonal roast menu and a celebration of Scotland’s finest traditions. In true Scottish spirit, guests can enjoy the sounds of Jamie Kelley on the bagpipes, and every evening will kick off with the traditional Address to the Haggis.
GO: Visit www.walmercastle-nottinghill.co.uk for more information.
