Far be it from us to judge haggis, Scotland's famed meat pudding made from sheep pluck (the nasty bits) encased in animal intestine—some people can't get enough of it! If you're one of those brave souls, you'll be delighted to know it's time for Burns Night once again, the annual celebration of Scottish poet Robert Burns. In honor of his birthday, Scot pubs around the city prepare their best version of haggis along with lots of beers and whiskeys to celebrate Scotland's favorite son.
Here's where to sate your hankering for sheep parts this weekend:
The Shakespeare Chef Robert Aikens pays tribute to Scotland's native son on Monday, January 27th with a four-course menu including, of course, Haggis Neeps and Tatties (aka with turnip and potato) served with a Glenmorangie Original 10 years old whisky included in the $45 per person price. Other courses include a smoked and cured salmon platter, a choice of pan fried hake or roasted chicken and a Perthshire ginger parkin (cake) with nectar pear compote. Another $25 gets you knee deep in whisky for each course of the meal. Seatings are at 5:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.; call (646) 837-6779 or email [email protected] to secure a spot. 24 East 39th Street, 646-837-6776
The Rookery This Bushwick tavern teams up with Scotland's Belhaven Brewers for their Saturday, January 25th celebration plus whiskey flights and all the offal you can shake a stick at. Belhaven will do tastings of three of their beers: Wee Heavy, Twisted Thistle IPA and Belhaven Black Scottish Stout; whiskey flights with three single malts are available for just $20. On the more poetic side, Brooklynites by way of Scotland will be doing readings of Burns's poems, as well as "roasting some of the patrons." Nothing like getting made fun of by a man in kilt! Speaking of which, kilt-wearers will be rewarded with a free pint of Belhaven. 425 Troutman Street, 718-483-8048
incognito bistro Sure, this Chelsea eatery actually bills itself as Italian, but they're tipping their hat to ole Rabbie anyway decked out in their Clan Italia tartan. On Saturday, January 25th the special meal begins with a befitting whisky toast followed by Scotch Broth, Haggis Gateaux and a choice of Scottish Salmon or Roast Beef. Traditional dessert Cranachan—it's kind of like a parfait—ends the meal, which runs for $65 a head. A beer tasting by Lochness Brewery will be accompanied by bag pipes; BYO ear plugs. 30 West 18th Street, 212-414-1231
St. Andrews Haggis Heads won't be disappointed by this Midtown bar's $75 prix fixe menu, but those who aren't made about offal will have plenty to choose from as well. This celebration unfolds on Friday, January 24th beginning at 7 p.m., with three courses of Scottish fare including rack of lamb, salmon, cock-a-leekie soup and stick toffee pudding. Each course also includes a whiskey/beer pairing; you won't find a better deal in town. Reserve your spot ASAP. 140 West 46th Street, (212) 840-8413
