British Pie Week runs March 2-8 and is pulling no pastry punches in its promotion of the not so humble pie. Whether you like a traditional Scotch pie made with mutton and onion gravy, the double-carb delivery of mac and cheese, or a creamy roast chicken and leek number, there’s something undeniably tempting about pies.
As a food concept, they’ve been around for millennia, initially created as a way to transport food from A to B. These days the classics sit easily with modern versions featuring fusions of international ingredients and culinary heritage.
From Scotch to game pies, here's a few to try in Edinburgh:
The Dogs, 110 Hanover Street
This restaurant is famed for its rustic, hearty eats, friendly service, great beers and wines. Currently on the menu: a mutton, apricot and root veggie pie which sounds pretty tempting.
L’Escargot Bleu, 56 Broughton Street / L’Escargot Blanc, 17 Queensferry Street
Fred Berkmiller's duo of French bistros regularly feature homely pies full of Gallic flavour made with Scottish ingredients. Think Gartmorn Farm duck, game such as Highland venison, pheasant and partridge, or veal.
Steak and kidney piehttps://www.flickr.com/photos/cpj79/
Simple Simon’s Perfect Pies, Edinburgh Farmer’s Market at Castle Terrace
Hand-made pies from their bakery in Biggar, Simple Simon's individual pies have been a favourite at the farmers' market for years. Check out their stall (1st & 3rd Saturdays of the month) for a selection of puff-pastry encased delights to take home. Favourites include haddock and leek, chicken and tarragon and the downright delicious breakfast pie.
John Bain & Son Family Butcher, 2 Stenhouse Cross
A traditional family-butcher on the west side of the city, Bain's sells some of the tastiest Scotch Pies in Edinburgh, and not a bad steak & kidney either.
Piemaker, 38 South Bridge and 61 Great Junction Street
With over 30 types to try, including a good veggie selection, Piemaker's a good bet for a hot, fresh pie on-the-go.