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The Legacy of Hendersons in Edinburgh: UK’s Oldest Vegetarian Restaurant & Its Famous Haggis

The Legacy of Hendersons in Edinburgh: UK’s Oldest Vegetarian Restaurant & Its Famous Haggis

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Henderson's Restaurant is a beloved institution known for its vibrant vegetarian and vegan fare. Having recently visited, I was impressed by its commitment to fresh, organic ingredients and its long-standing dedication to sustainability.

The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a relaxed, contemporary décor that feels both intimate and inviting. The earthy tones, wooden furnishings, and tasteful lighting create a calm, natural ambiance that complements the restaurant’s ethos perfectly.

Nibbles Board

The nibbles board at Henderson's Restaurant in Edinburgh is a delightful assortment of small bites, perfect for sharing with a conversation or as a light starter. It showcases a variety of fresh, plant-based snacks, beautifully presented to tantalize your taste buds.

The plate typically features an array of house-made hummus—creamy and rich, often flavored with roasted red pepper or beetroot, lending it a slightly sweet and earthy undertone. This is paired with artisan sourdough, ideal for scooping up the dips. The bread is fresh with a rustic flavor that complements the spreads.

You’ll also find an assortment of marinated olives, which add a briny, zesty contrast to the other items on the plate. These are mixed with hints of citrus, herbs, and garlic, bringing a Mediterranean vibe to the dish.

Additionally, the plate includes butterbean, confit garlic and rosemary pate with lemon toasted sunflower seeds served with sourdough and smoked almonds, cashews and peanuts.

King Oyster Mushroom Scallops

The King Oyster Mushroom Scallops at Henderson's Restaurant in Edinburgh are a creative and sophisticated plant-based twist on traditional scallops. These "scallops" are crafted from thick slices of oyster mushrooms, which have a naturally tender and meaty texture, making them the perfect substitute.

Cooked to perfection, the mushrooms are pan-seared to achieve a golden, caramelized exterior, while retaining a soft, juicy interior. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms is enhanced with light seasoning. The result is a deliciously umami-rich bite with a satisfying texture that mimics the tenderness of real scallops.

The dish is often served atop a velvety cauliflower puree, which adds a creamy and slightly nutty contrast to the mushrooms. The puree is smooth and rich, complementing the savory notes of the oyster mushrooms while balancing the dish with a subtle sweetness.

Accompanied by lightly sautéed greens or a garnish of micro herbs, the presentation is as beautiful as it is flavorful. The Oyster Mushroom Scallops at Henderson’s are a testament to the restaurant’s innovative approach to plant-based cuisine, offering a refined, gourmet experience that’s both satisfying and environmentally conscious.

It's a must-try for those seeking a unique and elegant vegetarian dish!

Vegetarian Arancini

 
The vegetarian arancini at Henderson's Restaurant is a delicious and indulgent take on the traditional Italian dish while showcasing the restaurant's dedication to fresh, plant-based ingredients.

The outside is perfectly crunchy, with a satisfying bite, while the interior remains soft and luscious. The risotto-like filling is creamy, thanks to the use of high-quality ingredients that is subtly seasoned with herbs adding an aromatic freshness to each bite.

Overall, Henderson's vegetarian arancini are a perfect appetizer or small plate—comforting, crispy on the outside, and full of vibrant flavors on the inside. A must-try for anyone looking to explore creative vegetarian cuisine!

Famous Henderson Haggis

The famous Henderson haggis at Henderson's Restaurant in Edinburgh is a delightful twist on Scotland's iconic dish, made entirely plant-based yet packed with flavor and texture. Instead of the traditional meat ingredients, Henderson's version is served with root mash, whisky tarragon cream and caramelized red onion. These ingredients are combined with a blend of spices giving the dish that characteristic warm and earthy taste.

The result is a rich, slightly crumbly texture with a satisfying bite, mimicking the traditional haggis while offering a lighter, wholesome experience. The combination of vegetables used provided a wonderfully chewy texture while enjoying a hearty, protein-rich base. The seasoning is spot-on, offering a deep savory profile with hints of warmth from the spices.

Whether you're a vegetarian or just curious to try a plant-based version of this traditional Scottish meal, Henderson's vegetarian haggis is an absolute treat, offering a satisfying, comforting, and flavorful homage to a Scottish classic.

Caponata

The Caponata at Henderson's Restaurant in Edinburgh is a vibrant and flavorful Sicilian-inspired dish that showcases the restaurant's dedication to fresh, Mediterranean-style plant-based cuisine. This traditional Italian stew contains toasted pine nuts, herby polenta cakes and green cashew sauce, all resulting in a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet dish.

Henderson’s Caponata is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, offering a rustic, yet refined dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of Mediterranean warmth. It’s an excellent option for those looking for a wholesome, plant-based dish that feels both comforting and packed with vibrant flavors.

Saffron Ginger Cake


The Saffron Ginger Cake at Henderson's Restaurant in Edinburgh is an exquisite and aromatic dessert that marries warm, exotic flavors with a delicate, moist texture. This unique cake stands out with its rich golden hue, thanks to the infusion of saffron, which imparts a subtle floral and slightly earthy flavor, elevating the cake's complexity.

The addition of ginger brings a delightful warmth and spice, cutting through the sweetness and giving each bite a cozy, comforting zing. The ginger is finely balanced, providing just the right amount of heat without overpowering the delicate saffron notes. Together, these flavors create an enticing blend of sweet, spicy, and fragrant, making the cake both intriguing and satisfying.

The Saffron Ginger Cake at Henderson’s is a must-try for those with a taste for bold, adventurous flavors. It’s the perfect way to end a meal, offering a dessert that feels luxurious yet comforting, with a balance of sweetness and spice that lingers delightfully on the palate.

Biscoff Cheesecake

The Biscoff Cheesecake at Henderson's Restaurant in Edinburgh is a decadent, indulgent dessert that’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. This plant-based cheesecake features a creamy, velvety filling made from a combination of vegan cream cheese and rich Biscoff spread, which gives the cake its signature caramelized, spiced flavor.

The cheesecake’s base is a buttery, crumbly crust made from crushed Biscoff cookies, adding a perfect crunchy contrast to the smooth filling. The cookie crust is slightly sweet with hints of cinnamon and brown sugar, which complement the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth topping. The filling itself is luxuriously rich, with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice that Biscoff fans will love.

This cheesecake is perfect for those who want to indulge in a luxurious, vegan-friendly dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a must-try for both Biscoff lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

Henderson's Restaurant is set in a warm, contemporary space with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The décor reflects the restaurant's commitment to sustainability, featuring natural materials and earthy tones. The venue is perfect for casual lunches, romantic dinners, or gatherings with friends, offering both comfort and style.

Sustainability and Ethical Focus

Henderson's has long been committed to environmental sustainability. The restaurant emphasizes the use of organic, locally sourced produce, reducing its carbon footprint while supporting local farmers and suppliers. The menu is 100% vegetarian and vegan, aligning with a mission to promote a plant-based lifestyle that’s both health-conscious and eco-friendly.

Perfect for Vegans, Vegetarians, and Foodies

Whether you're a lifelong vegetarian, a vegan, or simply curious about plant-based eating, Henderson's offers a culinary experience that’s sure to impress. Their innovative dishes are full of flavor, making it one of the best places to enjoy high-quality vegetarian and vegan food in Edinburgh.

Visit Henderson's Restaurant in Edinburgh

Conveniently located in the city center, Henderson's is an ideal dining spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s perfect for a pre-theater meal, a casual bite after exploring Edinburgh’s historic sights, or a special occasion with loved ones. With a commitment to great food, sustainability, and ethical dining, Henderson's continues to be a leading force in Edinburgh’s plant-based culinary scene.

Address: 7-13 Barclay Place, Edinburgh, EH10 4HW
Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner
Price Range: ££

Experience Edinburgh’s finest plant-based dining at Henderson’s Restaurant today!

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