written by
Andrew Baxter

Broth and Beyond: My Scottish Soup Quest

Scotland Blog 2 min read

As a professional tour guide based in the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland, my days are often spent on the road, exploring the nooks and crannies of this beautiful country. And with all that travelling comes the inevitable need to refuel. I'll admit, I've been known to indulge in some classic Scottish fare along the way - haggis, neeps, and tatties, or perhaps some hearty fish and chips, followed by a slice of decadent cake and a cup of coffee. But recently, I've made a vow to myself: no more expanding waistlines, no more loosening my kilt! Does that mean I am doomed to eat cabbage soup?

Instead of succumbing to temptation, I've embarked on a deliciously exciting adventure - a quest to find the best soup in Scotland! After all, Scots are renowned for their skill in crafting hearty, satisfying soups that warm the soul and nourish the body. The options are endless, from the creamy goodness of Cullen Skink to the comforting simplicity of Scotch Broth.

Cullen Skink Soup
Creamy Cullen Skink

Going beyond the broth

So, dear reader, I invite you to embark on this savoury adventure with me. Together, we'll traverse the length and breadth of Scotland, exploring bustling student cafes in Glasgow, elegant restaurants in Edinburgh, and charming farm shops in the wilds of the Highlands. Our mission? To uncover Scotland's standout soups, one delicious bowl at a time.

But my quest continues beyond tasting and savouring these culinary delights. I'll meticulously document each soup and its accompanying venue. And here's the exciting part: I'll score each soup based on a unique guide that considers everything from appearance and aroma to flavour and use of local ingredients. This way, you can trust that each recommendation is a true standout.

Scotch Broth
Scotch Broth

Who will become my soup champion?

So, buckle up and prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing tour of Scotland's soup scene. Let's go "Broth and Beyond” together and crown the worthy champion of the "Broth and Beyond 2024" title! Who knows, you might stumble upon your new favourite soup, a delightful surprise waiting to be discovered.

2024 Beyond the Broth Reviews

  • Deanston Distillery Cafe (Lentil and Haggis) - Coming soon
  • The Crypt Cafe, Wellington Church, Glasgow (Red Pepper and Tomato) - Coming soon
  • Lagg Distillery Cafe, Isle of Arran (Leek, Broccoli and Cheddar) - Coming soon
  • Lochranza Distillery Cafe, Isle of Arran (Spicy Parsnip and Butternut Squash) - Coming soon
Food Scotland