Dundee's restaurant scene is broader than Scotland's deep-fried reputation might suggest. The city's international student population has brought variety — Indian, Pakistani, Chinese and Italian restaurants are well represented — while a string of independent cafes and sandwich shops keep lunch affordable. Perth Road and the streets around the university are the best areas for casual eating, with Broughty Ferry offering a more upmarket alternative along the waterfront.
Traditional Scottish food here tends toward the hearty: fish and chips doused in salt and vinegar, macaroni cheese pies, and mutton pies. Haggis is worth trying if you haven't — it is better than its reputation. The city's traditional pubs serve most of these, and the takeaways along Perth Road handle the post-pub crowd.
For something more polished, the dining scene has grown considerably. South Kingennie House, a short drive east along the B978, serves well-executed Scottish dishes that justify the trip. In the centre, several Italian spots double as relaxed daytime cafes and more formal evening restaurants, and pavement cafes line the pedestrianised streets when the weather cooperates.