Taste of East Lothian: Discover Scotland’s Food & Drink County
Known as Scotland's Food & Drink County, East Lothian is renowned for its quality produce, exceptional food and drink businesses, and stunning natural surroundings. Whether you're looking for great places to eat, fresh local produce or a chance to discover the people behind some of the county's best-loved products, there's plenty to savour. Here's where to start.
Eat Your Way Around East Lothian
From cosy cafés and independent bakeries to welcoming pubs and award-winning restaurants, East Lothian offers something to suit every taste.
Local ingredients feature proudly on menus across the county, with chefs making the most of seasonal produce and products sourced from across East Lothian. Whether you're stopping for coffee and cake, enjoying a leisurely lunch or indulging in an evening meal, you'll find plenty of opportunities to savour the flavours of East Lothian.
Along the way, you’ll find everything from homemade bakes and sweet treats to dishes that celebrate local ingredients and food traditions.
Meet The Local Producers
Browse farm shops, delicatessens, bakeries and specialist food retailers to fill your basket with the flavours of East Lothian. Depending on the season, you'll find freshly baked bread, artisan cheeses, preserves, homegrown produce, locally reared meat and a variety of products crafted right here in the county.
There is plenty to tempt drinks lovers too. Producers create everything from craft beers, cider and whisky to small-batch gin and rum, offering a taste of the county that's well worth taking home.
For the chance to meet the makers in person, time your visit to coincide with one of East Lothian's regular markets. Haddington Farmers' Market, held on the last Saturday of every month, brings together food producers, growers and artisans, while the North Berwick Food & Drink Market, held on the second Saturday of every month, offers the opportunity to browse food, drink and handcrafted products just a stone's throw from the sea.
Whether you're stocking up on favourite finds, chatting to stallholders or simply enjoying the atmosphere, these markets are a wonderful way to experience the people and produce that help make this corner of Scotland so special.
Fresh From the Coast
With miles of coastline and a rich fishing heritage, seafood has long been part of East Lothian's food story.
From freshly landed lobster and crab to smoked fish and seafood platters, the county is a fantastic place to enjoy some of Scotland’s finest seafood. For a restaurant experience, visit The Rocketeer Restaurant in North Berwick, where locally sourced seafood takes centre stage. For something more relaxed, head to The Lobster Shack, a popular harbour-side spot serving freshly prepared seafood, with outdoor seating overlooking the harbour.
In Dunbar, you'll find Belhaven Smokehouse known for its traditionally smoked fish, while Belhaven Lobster supplies high-quality shellfish landed from local waters.
Whether you're enjoying a seafood feast overlooking the sea or picking up the day's catch to take home, East Lothian's connection to the coast is never far away.
Turning Tasting Into An Experience
Why stop at simply tasting great food and drink when you can discover the stories behind the people who make it?
Across East Lothian, tours and visitor experiences offer a chance to go behind the scenes and learn more about the people and skills behind some of the county's best-loved products.
Explore the world of Scotch whisky at Glenkinchie Distillery, the Lowland Home of Johnnie Walker, discover the award-winning spirits produced at NB Distillery, or uncover centuries of brewing tradition at Belhaven Brewery, Scotland's oldest working brewery.
For a different perspective, farm experiences offer another way to connect with East Lothian's food and farming heritage. Meet the animals, browse farm shops, enjoy seasonal produce and spend time in the countryside while learning more about the journey from field to fork.
These experiences provide a deeper appreciation of the people, skills and traditions that shape Scotland's Food & Drink County.
Take A Taste Of East Lothian Home
From freshly landed seafood and farmers' markets to distilleries, breweries and independent food producers, East Lothian offers plenty to savour.
Before you head home, pick up a few local favourites and continue enjoying a taste of Scotland's Food & Drink County long after your visit has ended.
However you choose to experience it, food and drink offers a delicious way to get to know East Lothian.
Author: Jackie Gardiner
Visit East Lothian
