Robbie Burns Day is set to descend upon Toronto on January 25, and a small assortment of pubs are thus stocking up on the Haggis in order to celebrate Scotland's most famous poet. While Burns is best known for poems like "Auld Lang Syne," "A Red, Red Rose," and "Ae Fond Kiss" (plus many more), his "colourful" personality has no doubt enriched his legacy. A lover of whiskey, women and the written word, it's little wonder why the poet's birthday has become an occasion for a libation or two (or three or four).

If, like me, you're not up on your Haggis recipes, here's a list of some places around town where that lovely dish of sheep's "pluck" encased in stomach can be found on, before and after Burns' birthday.

TOP PICK

The Caledonian - Saturday, January 22
Already sold out on Burns' actual birthday (the 25th), the Caledonian will mark the occasion with two celebrations on account of demand. Look for a traditional three course dinner (featuring Haggis, of course), some of Canada's best Highland dancers and poetry recitals. $30, 7 p.m. 647-547-9827

OTHER OPTIONS

The Monk's Table - Robbie Burns Festival, Friday 21 - Tuesday 25
The Monk's Table is doing the Scottish thing all week, but the highlights will come on the 24th and 25th. On the Monday, the restaurant is doing a five course single malt and food pairing with Toronto Star contributor Josh Rubin, and on the big day they'll be giving away a five course tasting menu for two to the person who comes up with the best Robbie Burns-inspired Limerick or poem. Oh, and there'll be Haggis. Call for more info. 416-920-9074

The Granite Brewery - Friday, January 21 and Saturday the 22nd
The Saturday night is already sold-out, but Friday tickets are still available. Traditional supper with Haggis and a beverage served with each course. $50, 7pm. 416-322-0723

Mill Street Brew Pub - Tuesday, January 25
This one's a little bit more expensive at $60, but it's a five-course meal with paired beers, so still pretty good. $60, 6:30 p.m. 416-681-0338

Allen's - Tuesday, January 25
On offer is a three course menu, music by the Scarborough Pipes and Drums, songs by Diane Raeside and highland dance performances by the Sheryl Joiner Troupe.
Jimmy Hunter "addresses the haggis" at 6:30. $65. 416-463-3086

The Auld Spot Pub (Danforth and College locations) - Tuesday, January 25
"The Ode to the Haggis" will take place at 7:30 p.m. at the College location and 8:30 p.m. on the Danforth. Poetry recitals are on the docket.

The Brazen Head - Thursday, January 27
The BH will once again offer a traditional Robbi Burns supper, including Haggis, a Scotch egg, Cock-A-Leekie soup, Filet Mignon and a bottle of Innis & Gunn Scottish oak-aged beer. $45, starts at 6:30 p.m. 416-535-8787

Photo by allybeag on Flickr.