The Rollin Pig – Renfrewshire’s award-winning street food

Harbouring one of the most robust and distinct menus in Renfrewshire, Suzanne Oswald heads to Johnstone’s street food phenomenon, The Rollin Pig, for an afternoon feast to remember.

There’s no denying that Renfrewshire’s resurgence as a hotbed for culture and cuisine can be largely attributed to the lofty ambitions and creative zeal of its residents. One such enterprise, fuelled by a real passion for the area, as well as a desire to offer something entirely unique, is The Rollin Pig. 

Spearheaded by the McShane family in Johnstone, who initially made their name through their events company (The Entertainment Company) and high-end catering business (Inside Out), the takeaway project began in lockdown last year as the world was brought to a halt. However, refusing to rest on their laurels, they decided to gather the knowledge and resources they had gained from years in the food industry and channel them into a new realm of BBQ and street food. 

The Buffalo Wings and Salt & Chilli Chicken Strips

Of course, with a name like the Rollin Pig, you have a vague idea of what kind of diner they cater to. So, as resident carnivores, it was down to Paul and I to get acquainted with the mouth-watering menu. 

The takeaway is housed on Ann Street, Johnstone, just a short walk from the High Street – and it’s fair to say that the modest surroundings belie the culinary marvels that lie inside. 

“Their ethos is one founded on real, genuine quality, as well as an all-encompassing passion for local produce”

With a small, characterful seating area in the front yard, we were given the opportunity to make the most of the rare March sunshine as we perused the menu. 

On first glance, it’s clear that the Rollin Pig isn’t your standard takeaway. Emblazoned with the slogan ‘Amazing food, not fast food!’, their ethos is one founded on real, genuine quality, as well as an all-encompassing passion for local produce.

Brisket Loaded Fries

As we ran through what was on offer, we were assured that the ingredients for each and every dish were sourced locally – from the hogs which are provided by a farm in Neilston to the haggis and black pudding made by Marshalls Butchers to the fruit and veg supplied by Harry’s Fruit and Veg, both in Johnstone. 

With a multitude of mouth-watering options available, the menu ranges from inventive street food dishes, juicy burgers, gourmet loaded hot dogs, chicken wings, loaded fries to toasties and much more. However, it’s important to note that vegetarians are accounted for too with personally crafted bean burgers and veggie dogs.

During our visit, we were lucky enough to taste numerous plates, with some of their signature meals on show. We started with a Smashed Cheeseburger, which featured tender and flavourful Scottish beef, hand rolled and pressed, alongside liberal helpings of cheese, burger sauce and fresh salad. Of course, everyone has a say on how to craft the perfect burger, but we were both in agreement that The Rollin Pig have decisively mastered the art. 

Next up was the Scottish Craft Hot Dog, which featured a prime cut of Scottish pork, doused in mustard, ketchup and crispy onions. As someone who has never been swept away by the humble hot dog, I am delighted to confirm that I’m officially a convert after this sumptuous experience. Please be warned though, napkins are advised! 

The Brisket Loaded Fries were perhaps the star of the show, at least if their disappearance from the plate was anything to go by. With loaded being the operative term here, we were treated to a near-cavernous plate of fluffy chips topped with tender brisket, haggis, black pudding and a truly delicious peppercorn sauce. 

Much to our collective awe, the dishes kept coming. The Buffalo Wings and Salt & Chilli Chicken Strips arrived with an assortment of home-made sauces – each as vibrant and flavourful as the next. 

Chicken Shawarma

With room for one final plate, the Chicken Shawarma topped off our highly enjoyable excursion. Highlighted to us as a local favourite, it was beautifully presented and packed with healthy goodness; the flatbread adorned with tastefully marinated chicken, colourful, fresh salad and tangy sauce. 

With each indulgent dish, the Rollin Pig discards any preconceived notions of takeaway food and elevates it to a whole new level. An exciting and unique addition to Renfrewshire’s food and drink scene, there is already talk of their plans for the future. Given the quality of their food and what they’ve accomplished so far, they seem primed to become a staple of the area. 

The Rollin Pig, The Yard, Ann Street, Johnstone PA5 8EZ. Want to try their amazing street food for yourself? It’s cheaper to order direct by calling 01505 367161 or placing your order via their website.

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