Places to Eat in St Andrews

Fine Dining Restaurants

For an upscale meal, St Andrews does not disappoint. The Adamson is one of the town’s finest contemporary restaurants known for its stylish decor and innovative dishes. Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss The Seafood Ristorante, famous for its fresh, locally-sourced fish and shellfish in a chic beachfront setting. Or if you prefer to take in the Old Course the Road Hole Restaurant offers fine dining with stunning views of the 17th hole and the West Sands beach.

Other celebrated addresses include Haar, known for experimental Scottish cuisine, it showcases the tastes of the incredible locally sourced produce. The Peat Inn, just south of town, is Michelin-starred, with a strong emphasis on Fife ingredients. For a relaxed fine-dining vibe, try The Russell, a wood-panelled brasserie-style restaurant serving classic Scottish fare. In short, whether it’s gourmet seafood or a tasting menu by a master chef, St Andrews has many fine dining options to celebrate a special occasion.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat

St Andrews is very welcoming to families and children. For comfort food that kids love, head to Mitchell’s Deli on Market Street. A casual café serving delicious sandwiches, soups and fresh-baked goods, all made with local ingredients. It’s perfect for an easy breakfast or lunch. Near the beach, the North Point Café is great for a quick family snack – they have coffee, sandwiches and treats and a play area for little ones.

For fun street food, The Cheesy Toast Shack is a must-visit, its gourmet grilled-cheese sandwiches are wildly popular. Another staple is Cromars Fish & Chips, a takeaway fish-and-chips shop acclaimed as one of Scotland’s best. The portion sizes will also please any hungry teenagers! If you’re after pizza or pub grub, you’ll find familiar chains like PizzaExpress. And since St Andrews is home to a major university, many pubs and cafés are used to families and have kids’ menus or play corners, so it’s easy to relax.

Best Pubs & Casual Dining

St Andrews has no shortage of pubs and laid-back eateries. The Jigger Inn is probably the most iconic pub – it sits next to the 17th hole of the Old Course and has a large patio where you can grab a pint and classic pub food. The Bothy on West Port is a popular gastropub with a warm Scottish vibe, serving hearty dishes like steak pie and seafood chowder. Forgans (the University Arms) is another lively spot: a tavern-style restaurant in an old stone building, known for haggis, neeps and tatties and often hosting live music.

For traditional local pubs, try The Keys , Scotland’s smallest pub, which has won awards for its whisky selection. Greyfriars Inn (also a Bed & Breakfast) has a lovely beer garden and great seafood burgers. St Andrews Brewing Company (The Brew Co.) brews its own beers on-site and has a large, student-friendly taproom. Other casual spots include Central Bar, a rustic place with good ales, and The Criterion, a cosy old pub known for its steak pie. No matter where you sit down, you’re never far from a friendly bar atmosphere and comfort food here.

Vegetarian, Vegan & Dietary Options

Vegetarians and vegans will find many welcoming menus in St Andrews. Zest has plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. Lots of fresh salads, grain bowls and smoothies made from local produce. Another standout is Maisha, which offers fragrant Indian dishes. 

Local Tips & Hidden Foodie Gems

While the favourites above are excellent, be sure to explore a few lesser-known gems. Jannettas Gelateria is a local institution. This ice-cream parlour offers 54 flavours of artisanal gelato, from classic pistachio to a unique Scottish tayberry. 

FAQs About Eating Out in St Andrews

What restaurants are near the Old Course? 

The Old Course Hotel itself has fine options: Swilcan Loft (upstairs restaurant) and Road Hole (downstairs) offer modern Scottish cuisine with views over the links. For a drink and a casual meal, the Jigger Inn sits beside the 17th hole. Also a short walk away are cafés like Mitchell’s Deli and Zest if you want something quick.

Do I need reservations for dinner? 

In high season or on weekends, it’s wise to book the popular spots. Most fine-dining places recommend reservations in advance. Smaller cafés and pubs usually accept walk-ins, but they can fill up at mealtimes, especially during the university term and summer. If in doubt, a quick phone call or online booking is best, as many menus are available on their websites.

What local dishes should I try? 

St Andrews chefs make creative use of Fife’s specialties. Be sure to try fresh seafood: scallops, crab, lobster or langoustine are commonly on menus often sourced from Anstruther. You’ll also find local lamb, beef and berries on many plates. For something traditional, sample Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup) or haggis with neeps. Don’t miss a Scottish cheese board for dessert, and of course whisky is a perfect finish to any meal in St Andrews.

Are there good spots for breakfast or coffee? 

Absolutely. Popular morning choices include Fisher & Donaldson, the town bakery, famous for its hot cross buns and fudge doughnuts. North Point Café near West Sands and Mitchell’s Deli both have great brunch fare.

What about dietary needs? 

Many restaurants and cafés are very accommodating. As mentioned, places like Zest and Maisha cater specifically to vegans and those avoiding gluten.