Dundee venues round-up: September 2021

Heather Street Food

With the V&A acting as a new cultural cornerstone in Dundee, it’s only right that other local businesses should also benefit from the museum’s widespread appeal. Heather Street Food is one such business who has thrived thanks to the V&A; perched directly under Kengo Kuma’s futuristic construction, locals and tourists alike have taken to their fun food and personality. It’s been voted one of the top 10 street food vans in Scotland and it’s easy to see why. Italian-style bagels and feel-good donuts have been its staples from day one, but with its additional van and beer garden taking flight over the summer, prosecco and ice cream has taken Heather Street Food to a whole new level. 1 Riverside Esplanade, DD1 4EZ

EH9 Espresso

Dundee’s west end is the place to be for art lovers. Home to DJCAD (Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design) and a host of literary-themed pubs, the city’s cultural quarter brims with independent businesses, who thrive among a supportive local community.

One of Perth Road’s newest additions comes in the form of independent coffee shop, EH9 Espresso. It’s run by Fraser Smith, a 25-year-old from Newport, and is his very first business venture after acquiring plentiful experience as a barista in Edinburgh. Having only been open three months, EH9 has already built a cult following. Its hot and iced coffees, sweet home bakes and friendly vibes are a perfect fit for the west end community. It’s no surprise that many locals have said "this is exactly what we’ve needed." 248 Perth Rd, DD1 4LL

Loco Rita’s

Loco Rita’s is the new sister restaurant of Dundee’s hugely popular Mexican eatery, Más. Housed in the same Hawkhill locale as the former Underdog vegan restaurant, the pandemic caused the business owners to reflect upon their goals and ambitions, which led to its new transformation earlier this year.

Before you step inside Loco Rita’s, the colourful snake-leopard mural surrounding the exterior provides a perfect, pre-meal photo opportunity. Inside, colour and character are even more abundant. Frozen margaritas and authentic Mexican beers bring the refreshing cool, while handmade empanadas and Taco Tuesday deals bring the sizzle and spice to the fully plant-based restaurant. Great for a quick bite or evening meal, this is a go-to for vegans and non-vegans alike. Old Hawkhill, DD1 5EU

The Newport Bakery

The Newport Bakery has ventured over the Tay to bring its delicious baked products to the people of Dundee. Its owner, Jamie Scott, who won Masterchef: The Professionals in 2014, is also the owner of the award-winning Newport Restaurant, and his team clearly have a flair for producing quality baked goods.

Country sourdough and croissant rolls are two of their slickest savoury concoctions, but its sweet treats look too good to resist. Strawberry and elderflower Danish pastries, tablet custard doughnuts and triple chocolate brownies are just a handful of the delectable options available at the bakery that’s turning heads for all the right reasons. 54 West Port, DD1 5ER

Dundee’s newest paninoteca comes in the form of Mezzaluna. With a love for wholesome Italian cooking stretching back to family roots from the 50s, the business has been riding an upward trajectory of late. From catering and events to street food to sandwich shop owners, Mezzaluna has been a real success story in Tayside despite the challenges of the pandemic.

Freshly made focaccia with a diverse range of fillings are a perfect lunch filler. Moreish arancini and bruschetta are also tasty tempters at any time of day. But a visit to Mezzaluna would not be complete without trying its cannoli. They’re a feast for the eyes as well as the belly and Dundonians can’t get enough of the stuff. 19 Whitehall Cres, DD1 4BB