A unique culinary creation from a Pitlochry gelato parlour has taken Perthshire by storm, captivating locals and drawing visitors from afar. Pinchy’s Gelato, a relatively new addition to the bustling Atholl Road, has found itself at the epicentre of an online sensation, all thanks to its daringly innovative haggis-flavoured ice cream.
Since opening its doors earlier this summer, Pinchy’s has cultivated a loyal following, but it was an intrepid TikTok post showcasing their savoury-sweet delight that truly catapulted the business into the spotlight. The short video rapidly amassed nearly 600,000 views, transforming the charming Pitlochry shop into an unlikely pilgrimage site for curious foodies worldwide. A Taste Sensation That Defies Expectations
Visitors are now frequently stepping through Pinchy’s doors, their first question often being: ‘Is this the place that serves the haggis ice cream?’ The sheer volume of interest has overwhelmed the team, with owner Clare Pinchbeck expressing her astonishment at the global reach of their creation.
‘We set out to craft something truly distinctive,’ Clare explains. ‘And honestly, no one else was doing haggis ice cream!’
The scepticism from new customers is palpable, yet quickly gives way to surprise. Many approach with apprehension, declaring it’s ‘going to be horrible,’ only to be genuinely won over after a taste. Clare notes a common sentiment: ‘Actually, that’s not bad.’ This reaction, she suggests, might stem from haggis’s modern culinary pairings. Often enjoyed with sweeter accompaniments like cranberry, the combination in gelato format may not be as outlandish as it first appears. Crafting Pitlochry’s Signature Scoop
The secret to Pinchy’s authentic haggis gelato lies in its commitment to local sourcing. The team procures their haggis from Rory Macdonald’s esteemed third-generation butcher shop, conveniently located just across the street. This ensures not only a genuine taste of Scotland but also supports fellow local businesses, strengthening the vibrant community spirit that Perthshire is renowned for.
Once the high-quality haggis arrives, it’s expertly blended into the creamy gelato base, with generous chunks of the spiced delicacy incorporated for an undeniable flavour and texture experience. This meticulous process results in a dessert that is at once sweet, spicy, and utterly surprising, leaving a lasting impression on those brave enough to try it. A Family Legacy and Local Pride
Pinchy’s Gelato is more than just a business; it’s a heartfelt tribute to family. Clare and her daughter Hettie, who previously established the much-loved Hettie’s Tea Room further along Pitlochry’s main street, named their new venture after Clare’s late husband, Stephen – affectionately known as ‘Pinchy.’ The name evokes fond memories of Stephen and Hettie’s shared tradition of sneaking out for ice cream, a sweet reflection of family bonds.
However, Pinchy’s isn’t your average ice cream parlour. The establishment prides itself on serving 18 distinct flavours of gelato, a style of frozen dessert known for its lower cream content and slower churning process, which yields an exceptionally rich and creamy texture. Every batch is meticulously crafted on-premises, guaranteeing freshness and unparalleled quality. Clare’s philosophy is simple: to generously fill each scoop with as much ‘stuff’ as possible, a principle born from her past experience selling other brands of ice cream which she felt lacked sufficient inclusions. Seasonal Delights for Pitlochry’s Extended Season
Pitlochry, a jewel in Perthshire’s tourism crown, enjoys an extended visitor season, largely driven by events such as the spectacular Enchanted Forest light show, which runs until early November. Pinchy’s is embracing this unique local calendar by remaining open to cater to the influx of tourists, offering seasonal innovations that perfectly complement the Scottish autumn and winter.
Currently, patrons can indulge in their gelato served with a warm crumble, featuring locally grown apples and plums – a delightful nod to Perthshire’s bountiful produce. Looking ahead, plans are already underway for a mincemeat pie flavour, perfectly timed for the festive Christmas season. And, with a twinkle in her eye, Clare hints at the inevitable return of the haggis gelato for Burns Night, ensuring that this unexpected favourite remains a celebrated staple on their menu, continuing to draw attention and delight in equal measure within the Perth and Kinross community and beyond.
Since opening its doors earlier this summer, Pinchy’s has cultivated a loyal following, but it was an intrepid TikTok post showcasing their savoury-sweet delight that truly catapulted the business into the spotlight. The short video rapidly amassed nearly 600,000 views, transforming the charming Pitlochry shop into an unlikely pilgrimage site for curious foodies worldwide. A Taste Sensation That Defies Expectations
Visitors are now frequently stepping through Pinchy’s doors, their first question often being: ‘Is this the place that serves the haggis ice cream?’ The sheer volume of interest has overwhelmed the team, with owner Clare Pinchbeck expressing her astonishment at the global reach of their creation.
‘We set out to craft something truly distinctive,’ Clare explains. ‘And honestly, no one else was doing haggis ice cream!’
The scepticism from new customers is palpable, yet quickly gives way to surprise. Many approach with apprehension, declaring it’s ‘going to be horrible,’ only to be genuinely won over after a taste. Clare notes a common sentiment: ‘Actually, that’s not bad.’ This reaction, she suggests, might stem from haggis’s modern culinary pairings. Often enjoyed with sweeter accompaniments like cranberry, the combination in gelato format may not be as outlandish as it first appears. Crafting Pitlochry’s Signature Scoop
The secret to Pinchy’s authentic haggis gelato lies in its commitment to local sourcing. The team procures their haggis from Rory Macdonald’s esteemed third-generation butcher shop, conveniently located just across the street. This ensures not only a genuine taste of Scotland but also supports fellow local businesses, strengthening the vibrant community spirit that Perthshire is renowned for.
Once the high-quality haggis arrives, it’s expertly blended into the creamy gelato base, with generous chunks of the spiced delicacy incorporated for an undeniable flavour and texture experience. This meticulous process results in a dessert that is at once sweet, spicy, and utterly surprising, leaving a lasting impression on those brave enough to try it. A Family Legacy and Local Pride
Pinchy’s Gelato is more than just a business; it’s a heartfelt tribute to family. Clare and her daughter Hettie, who previously established the much-loved Hettie’s Tea Room further along Pitlochry’s main street, named their new venture after Clare’s late husband, Stephen – affectionately known as ‘Pinchy.’ The name evokes fond memories of Stephen and Hettie’s shared tradition of sneaking out for ice cream, a sweet reflection of family bonds.
However, Pinchy’s isn’t your average ice cream parlour. The establishment prides itself on serving 18 distinct flavours of gelato, a style of frozen dessert known for its lower cream content and slower churning process, which yields an exceptionally rich and creamy texture. Every batch is meticulously crafted on-premises, guaranteeing freshness and unparalleled quality. Clare’s philosophy is simple: to generously fill each scoop with as much ‘stuff’ as possible, a principle born from her past experience selling other brands of ice cream which she felt lacked sufficient inclusions. Seasonal Delights for Pitlochry’s Extended Season
Pitlochry, a jewel in Perthshire’s tourism crown, enjoys an extended visitor season, largely driven by events such as the spectacular Enchanted Forest light show, which runs until early November. Pinchy’s is embracing this unique local calendar by remaining open to cater to the influx of tourists, offering seasonal innovations that perfectly complement the Scottish autumn and winter.
Currently, patrons can indulge in their gelato served with a warm crumble, featuring locally grown apples and plums – a delightful nod to Perthshire’s bountiful produce. Looking ahead, plans are already underway for a mincemeat pie flavour, perfectly timed for the festive Christmas season. And, with a twinkle in her eye, Clare hints at the inevitable return of the haggis gelato for Burns Night, ensuring that this unexpected favourite remains a celebrated staple on their menu, continuing to draw attention and delight in equal measure within the Perth and Kinross community and beyond.