Haddock that has been salted and smoked over hardwood fires, resulting in a rich, smoky flavor and copper-colored skin.
4 top-rated spots found
The Ship on the Shore
Whole Grilled Arbroath Smokie
Seafood
· ££
· Leith
★★★★½ 4.6
2,450 reviews
Local LegendClassicNautical Vibe
9.6
Flavor
8.2
Value
9.4
Vibe
This is widely considered the most atmospheric place to eat a Smokie in Edinburgh. The restaurant maintains a strict 'shore-to-plate' philosophy, ensuring the fish retains its characteristic oily richness and deep oak-smoke aroma without being overpowered by seasoning.
Run by the team behind the high-end Ondine, this spot offers the highest quality fish available in the city. The Smokie here is prized for its moist texture, a result of perfect temperature control during the reheating process which prevents the delicate haddock from drying out.
While they often serve the fish whole, their ability to incorporate the Smokie into modern dishes is unmatched. The smokiness permeates the entire dish, providing a depth of flavor that highlights the fish's unique curing process.
Ondine treats the Arbroath Smokie as a luxury ingredient. The execution is flawless, focusing on the contrast between the flaky, salty fish and creamy, refined accompaniments. It is the 'gold standard' for technical preparation.
📍 2 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1AD · View on Maps