With the Old Course private application for 2019 coming up this month, our minds are set on St. Andrews. While golf is the obviously the number one reason people visit St. Andrews, it’s also a town on the east coast of Scotland, full of history and sightseeing. And of course, you have to eat while you’re there!
Here’s a list of our favorite restaurants in St. Andrews, with culinary ideas for every budget.
High Rollers: Most Expensive Food Options in St. Andrews
For those with deep pockets or just someone looking to have a top-notch dining experience, there are several great options in St. Andrews.
The Seafood Ristorante – As its name implies, The Seafood Restaurant serves seafood with an eye towards Italian cuisine, with plenty of pasta to complement the local catch of the day. The restaurant is located on the beach, with panoramic views over St. Andrews Bay and West Sands Beach. They do offer a vegetarian menu and a few meat options for those not interested in items from the sea. But for the height of luxury, you can’t go wrong with a lobster dinner overlooking the sea.
The Peat Inn – If you count Michelin Stars as the only proof of fine dining, The Peat Inn will make your list. They serve modern versions of traditional Scottish fare, with an à la carte menu, tasting menus, and a three-course menu of the day that changes daily. While you probably won’t be served a local haggis, you can enjoy delicious meat, seafood, and vegetarian options in the warm setting of a small country inn.
Road Hole Restaurant – As part of the Old Course Hotel, the Road Hole Restaurant offers views of the Old Course and the North Sea while you dine on locally-sourced Scottish food. Local seafood is the star of the menu, including oysters, lobsters, langoustines, scallops, and fish, along with local beef, chicken, lamb, and pork. If you’re staying at the hotel, you can also order from the Road Hole for in-room service and enjoy their delights from the comfort of your own room.
Middle of the Road: Less Expensive but Still Delectable Dining Options in St. Andrews
For those who may be looking for a more economical experience but still want to experience culinary delights, there are many excellent choices in St. Andrews.
Tailend – As with most dining in St. Andrews, seafood is a major focus at Tailend, although they are best known for their traditional fish and chips. A step up from a chip shop, the restaurant is cozy and offers local Scottish produce alongside their beautifully cooked fish, which can be cooked in batter or breadcrumbs and fried in beef droppings or grilled. They also offer burgers, chicken, and salads for those not interested in seafood.
Forgan’s – With a homey atmosphere and a reputation for traditional ceilidh dancing, Forgan’s is a delightful spot to have dinner or brunch. Enjoy tasty food from an expansive menu, including the traditional haggis you may be looking for. The restaurant also has a sizeable gin selection, as well as local craft beer to round out your meal. Forgan’s has plenty of options for everyone, so even the pickiest eater will be pleased.
The Jigger Inn: Another entry from the Old Course Hotel, the Jigger Inn is a pub that takes up residence in a historic stationmaster’s lodge originally built in the 1850s. Slightly more expensive than your run of the mill Scottish pub, the Jigger Inn still serves up classic pub fare like fish and chips and burgers alongside the pub’s namesake Jigger Ale. It’s also an easy place to grab a quick sandwich after your round at any of the St. Andrews courses.
Cheap but Worth It: Pub Fare in St. Andrews
As in most of the British Isles, the local pub is a reliable place to grab a pint or a whisky and some lighter, less expensive fare.
Vic: A modern take on the Scottish pub, Vic offers an extremely friendly vibe, with board games, community-style seating, and traditional food from breakfast through to dinner. You can even bring your dog if you happen to have her with you. After dark, they bring in entertainment, including DJs for dancing and even a Sunday night pub quiz through the summer months. Vic is sure to meet your needs for simple food and a lively nightlife.
The Dunvegan: The Dunvegan is a hotel upstairs, with a pub downstairs and a restaurant in back. The Claret Jug restaurant is named after the Open Championship trophy, and offers an informal dining room where you can get pretty good food in a golf-themed setting. The pub in front also offers easy to eat fish and chips and burgers if you’d rather not settle into the full restaurant setting, while still enjoying the golf theme.
If you’re ready to play the Old Course and see St. Andrews for yourself, get in touch and we can start planning your trip today!