5 Things to do When You're in Town for Tartan

At the end of last month, I was delighted to attend the V&A Tartan exhibition opening night with my friend Kirsten of Design Dundee. The dress code was Tartantastic which was fantastic to see - so many fabulous outfits! There was such a buzz on arrival, watching everyone in the queue whilst listening to the piper (dressed in the V&A tartan, of course) and the drinks were flowing. We managed a quick look around the exhibition but as it was so busy I’ll have to pop back in to see it properly - though I’m sure I’ll visit many times with friends and family as it’s on until January 2024.

If you’ve come to Dundee for the Tartan exhibition, you might be wondering what else there is in the nearby area. Here are some of our favourites:

Hot Chocolate from Heather Street Food by the V&A

1. Heather Street Food.

This lovely little food truck is at the back of the V&A towards the Urban Beach, they do a delicious vegan hot chocolate (or coffees) which is such a treat for a walk around the Waterfront. Sadly Heather Street Food doesn’t currently have any vegan food on its menu.
https://heatherstreetfood.co.uk/
@heatherstreetfood

Dundee Cycle Hub at Waterfront Place

2. Dundee Cycle Hub Cafe.

On a colder day, you could pop into the Dundee Cycle Hub for a cosy lunch with a beautiful view over the Tay. Just a 2 minute walk away via the Tay Whale and the Urban Beach, they usually have vegan cake options and have a very comforting chilli bowl on offer.
https://www.dacyclehub.org/cafe
@dundeecyclehub

Vegan ice creams at Jannettas Gelateria in Slessor Gardens

3. Jannettas.

If the sun is shining walk along to Slessor Gardens and grab an ice cream to keep you cool. Jannettas usually have a few vegan flavours - our favourite is the Biscoff but the chocolate sorbet is a close second as it’s so rich and creamy. While you’re in Slessor Gardens be sure to check out the themed ‘pocket gardens’ and you’ll find a tucked away spot to enjoy your ice cream.
https://jannettas.co.uk/
@jannettas_gelateria

Dock Street Studios at 9/10 Dock Street

4. Dock Street Studios.

If you’d like to do some local shopping Dock Street Studios is the place to go - filled with the work of Dundee designers and makers alongside beautiful vintage clothes and treasures. This multifunctional space also hosts exhibitions and events, there’s even a wee cafe.
https://www.facebook.com/dockstreetstudios/
@dockstreetstudios

Reboutique on 33 Castle Street

5. Reboutique.

If you’re in the mood for fashion after your V&A visit, check out Reboutique for some quirky reworked pieces. You could even book a workshop and get crafty! You can sit in for a vegan cake or coffee and browse their upcycled furniture and gifts.
https://reboutique.org.uk/
@reboutique_dundee

Speaking of fashion, Dundee is home to some very talented designers - check out Isolated Heroes, Hayley Scanlan, Andie the Label, Dreamland Clothing, and KerrieALDO, to name a few.

There you have it - what’s your favourite indie business near the V&A? I’d love to know any I’ve missed so I can visit them soon.