The Royal Burgh of Cupar is at the heart of the medieval ‘royal route’ linking Falkland Palace in the west and St Andrews on the east coast. We take you cross-country to the home of golf … discovering characterful old pubs, the finest hotels, a world of cuisine that reflects the multi-cultural 600 year old University, breweries, farm shops, toasties, takeaways and – of course – ice cream.

From Cupar, take the B940 that heads east from the town’s Haugh Park – climbing out of the Eden Valley. At Pitscottie, take a left onto the B939 and follow the road up and over the hills before the vista of the sea at St Andrews towers opens up in the distance. This isn’t the main road into St Andrews, but the views are spectacular and we’ll return on a more direct route!

You’ll pass signs to Strathkinness, a village perched overlooking the Eden valley, the shoreline and Angus hills away in the distance. Take a turn into the village and you’ll discover The Tavern. The Tavern has been owned and operated by the same family since 2008 – “our father and son duo in the kitchen, and mum Barbara out front“. They’ve been proprietors of prosperous restaurants and hotels in Nairn, Carnoustie and St Andrews, but it’s in Strathkinness where they’ve found their home. Live music, variety shows, quizzes, darts, charity outings, cocktail nights, traditional pub fayre as well as homemade pizzas are just a few of the things that make this pub so popular with their patrons.

Back to the B940 and continue into St Andrews – you’ll pass the award-winning Rufflets Hotel. Records from 1642 show that the land was owned by the Priory of St Andrews, and was known as the ‘Ruch (pronounced ruff) Flets’ – ‘rough, flat lands’ in old Scots. The property was built as a private home in 1924 for Anne Brydon Gilroy, the widow of a Dundee jute merchant. In 1952, the seven bedroom turreted mansion was bought by George and Margaret Cook and their business partners, Anna and James Meldrum. The two women were sisters and the men, lifelong friend and they planned to create one of Scotland’s first and finest country house hotels. Today, Rufflets’ board comprises Mark and Christopher Forrester, grandsons of two of the original founders, their mother, Ann Murray-Smith, who took over the business from her parents in 1976, and Marco Truffelli, Italo-British hotelier, who partnered with them in early 2020. Your hosts want you to feel “relaxed enough to be completely at home here“.

Hunker down for the night in a cosy corner, next to a roaring fire and enjoy a tipple from their extensive whisky selection … more than 100 malt whiskies and 40 gins. Their restaurant is described as “sophisticated but relaxed” with “cosy booths and gorgeous views over the gardens“. Theyt want the dining experiences they offer to “go beyond traditional boundaries” which is why they have developed a range of outdoor eating areas as well – delivering “an even deeper connection with the food we grow, and eat outside in the natural environment“. Their menus draw the best Scottish produce together with the abundance of fresh herbs, fruit and vegetables grown in their own kitchen gardens. Dessert on a sunny terrace or sitting on a rug under the canopy of twinkling stars? A starter with a glorious red and gold sunset as your evening entertainment? A nightcap next to a crackling firepit?  So whether staying, visiting for Sunday lunch or an afternoon tea, Rufflets is a pretty special destination.

Back on the trail – and into St Andrews. The town is named after Saint Andrew the Apostle and grew to the west of St Andrews Cathedral, once the largest building in Europe, now an historic ruin. Home to the University of St Andrews, the third oldest university in the English-speaking world – and the oldest in Scotland, it is known globally as the ‘home of golf’ for two reasons: first, The Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews was founded in 1754 and the Old Course, acquired by the town in 1894, is the most frequent venue for The Open Championship, the oldest of golf’s four major championships.

Today, the town is a mecca for golfers, academics and all those who love the towns’ location astride sandy beaches on Fife’s golden coast. It is especially popular with foodies!

Because of the sheer number of food & drink outlets, we’re going to run through them by type: first up …

 

Pubs, bars and inns …

The Vic “We’re all about good, honest food served up in a relaxed space where everyone is welcome. Our gourmet burgers are the heart of what we do, but speciality sandwiches, sharing plates and much more means that we have something on the menu to suit all tastes.”

Cross Keys “Serving large selection of scottish beers, ales and spirits. Over 300 malt whiskies and over 150 gins. Toasties and snacks. Darts, dominoes and games.”

Central Bar “An historic pub in the center of St Andrews serving fine ales, wines, whisky and food. So pull up a seat, take a tour round our pub and discover what sets us apart from the rest.”

The Criterion A family run traditional Scottish pub established in 1874. “We have a wide range of locally sourced food including homemade favourites, most noticeably our FAMOUS CRI PIES. Specialising in cask ale and whisky – with over 160 whiskies and 70+ Scottish gins.

Our year-round outdoor seating area is the perfect place to while away the hours people watching.”

The Rule “By day a family friendly pub boasting a menu that caters for every taste. Sit back in comfort and enjoy a cocktail, gossip over a bottle of wine or share a platter. As the lights go down, the music goes up and the party gets going. With an extensive drinks menu and the best DJ’s in town – we are a venue not to missed.”

BrewDog “Our bar on the corner of South and Bell Street is the place to go to discover incredible craft beer, ciders, spirits and wine, and a whole lot more. Directly over the road from the 16th Century Blackfriars Chapel, BrewDog St Andrews rocks the best burger and wings menu in town, featuring Wings Wednesday, and also opens up at 11am for brunch on weekends.”

Aikmans Bar “Welcome to Aikman’s Bar~Bistro, the home of good beer! We have a great selection of continental beers, real ales & whiskies, with delicious food & live music twice a week!“

St Andrews Brew Pub “18 taps of beer and cider including our own brews as well as Scotland’s finest craft beers, ciders and some of our favourites from around the globe.

Also huge selection of bottled beers, over 30 rare malt whiskies and bourbons from artisan distilleries, 30 craft gins and a selection of great wines, plus of course our great lunch and dinner menu.”

The Saint Bar & Kitchen “Welcome to The Saint Bar & Kitchen! Formerly the St Andrews institution The West Port, the Saint has received an extensive renovation creating cosy, modern lounge areas and a refreshed, extensive garden area so you can enjoy whatever the Scottish weather throws your way.

Whether you are a visitor or local and in sunshine or rain, The Saint is the ideal spot to while away a sunny afternoon, tuck into some locally sourced, quality bar dining or have a wee dram courtesy of our knowledgeable, passionate bar team.”

Whey Pat A traditional dog-friendly pub with beer garden. “Great ales, good food, sensational nachos … and lots of live sport!

New Inn Recently refurbished, this Inn – close to the harbour and East Sands – is a traditional pub serving wholesome fayre with burgers, fish & chips, steak pie, daily curry special and Sunday lunches. They also offers four en-suite rooms. Next up?

 

Cafes, Coffee Shops, Bistros and Takeaways …

Blackhorn Burgers “Established in 2013, BlackHorn aims to produce HONEST food to be enjoyed by everyone. We strive to produce and AWESOME burger and only use the FINEST, FRESHEST produce we can find. Our original burger mix is made only for us using 100% BEEF from LOCAL farmers delivered DAILY for YOU. ALL BEEF. NO BULL. NO MUCKING ABOUT!”

Cottage Kitchen “Based in Logies Lane in St Andrews, we’re a small family run business, passionate about locally sourced, freshly crafted food. Our menu changes seasonally depending on availability and is all fresh and homemade every day. We believe that Fife has some of the best food in the World.  Fife and Scotland are bursting with unique, passionate independent producers who supply the best possible produce.  We strive to use as much local produce as we can, as well as using free-range, organic where possible.”

Hatch St Andrews “A constantly changing menu driven by seasonal produce and vibrant, clean flavours. A new dining experience for St Andrews.” You’ll find nibbles, plates, sides, cheese, charcuterie and desserts.

Northpoint Cafe As one review puts it: “Great food, friendly staff and good service. Lovely little cafe with a great vibe. Reasonably priced. Had a wonderful breakfast here. Definitely would recommend it.”

Rocca Continental Deli “We are a small family run cafe & delicatessen in the heart of St Andrews. We pride ourselves on our quality and standard of produce and service. We stock a fine array of Italian products and offer a range of made to order bistro style food and gourmet sandwiches as well as Italian coffees and desserts. Our meats and cheeses are specially selected and imported from Italy and our large ciabatta rolls are hand made to ensure our customers enjoy a genuine Italian experience. Buon appetito!”

St Andrews Aquarium “Proudly independent and family-owned aquarium in St. Andrews. Packed full of amazing animals and even a few surprises including Meerkats and Marmosets…yes, in an aquarium!”

Taste A great wee coffee stop on North Street. Popular with all who visit.

The Canny Soul A stop for a cuppa and snack on South Street – from bacon rolls to jacket potatoes.

The Cheesy Toast Shack An institution of a destination on East Sands. If you love cheesy toasties … this is the place.

The Harbour Cafe A cuppa overlooking the harbour watching the boats come and go as the world goes by?

The R&A World Golf Museum “Our rooftop Café offers incredible views of the famous Old Course and beautiful West Sands beach. The ever-changing landscape is an inspirational backdrop to enjoy your meal, and revive your senses. Whether you want to enjoy a hot savoury croissant or our home-baked scones and a delicious coffee in the morning or our Chef’s own freshly prepared lunch options, we are proud to work with local suppliers to bring you the best produce Scotland has to offer.”

Zest “Our Café in South Street has the best trained baristas serving up the very best coffee the area has to offer, alongside a superb range of home made foods which include awesome soups, bagels and cakes. However, it is not only the great things to eat and drink at Zest that makes us special, it is our philosophy of togetherness as a group of people that makes us both unique and proud.”

 

National chains & favourites …

Costa Coffee   |   Domino’s Pizza   |   Nando’s   |   Pizza Express   |   Pret A Manger   |   Starbucks   |   Subway

 

Around the world!

These trails are all about showcasing the very best food & drink that Scotland has to offer, but they wouldn’t be true to our international audience were we not able to highlight the global cuisine that’s available on our doorstep …

Maisha “Welcome to our family run authentic Indian & Seafood Restaurant . Our aim is to introduce a truly high quality Food , best service and a friendly atmosphere. We are specialise in fish and seafood in an authentic and traditional way.”

Oriental House “Our traditionally run family Restaurant & Take Away is one of the longest running Chinese caterers in the town. The premises was the first Chinese Restaurant established in 1960s. The name ‘The Oriental House’ has been established since 1992, over the years we have improved many of our services in terms of catering and premises environment. We offer a wide range of delicious Chinese, Asian and European dishes, cooked to the highest standards using the freshest ingredients by our highly experienced Chefs. With over 200 dishes to choose from, you will most likely to find a dish that will suits your taste.“

Tanon Thai “Tanon Thai street food is your stop for the best Thai food in this part of Scotland! Don’t believe us? Check out our menu, order your favourite and get ready to enjoy the taste of Thailand.”

 

Fish & Chips, ice cream and fudge doughnuts!

St Andrews wouldn’t be St Andrews without its award-winning fish and chips, ice cream and fudge doughnuts …

Cromar’s “Established in St. Andrew’s in 2013, Cromars serves high quality, fresh produce, which is delivered daily by our suppliers J K Thompson and Ivan Woods. We pride ourselves in serving the best fish supper accompanied by our homemade tartare sauce, mushy peas and wedge of lemon. This is all prepared by our fantastic and friendly team. We take the simplest of things,  and do it to high standards. You can then enjoy our outdoor seating area which is under a canopy and has external heaters or take it to our favourite little beach which is only a five minute walk!”

Tailend “We are an award winning seafood restaurant & takeaway situated in the heart of St Andrews – popular with golfers, tourists, students and locals. We pride ourselves on our fresh seafood & local produce, the restaurant is owned by by G & A Spink fish merchants of Arbroath, who also supply all the fish, fresh daily, including their famous hot smoked salmon and arbroath smokies – a must try!! As well as offering casual dining in our restaurant, we also offer event nights where students can celebrate graduation with bespoke celebratory menus and golfers can experience our famous “Traditional fish, Chips, Mushy Peas and Tartare Sauce” and all the fantastic seafood that Scotland has to offer, likes of local lobsters, Langoustines, Halibut and hake to name a few!”

Jannetta’s Gelateria “In 1908, my Great Grandfather Bennett Jannetta started the family business at 31 South Street, St Andrews as a soda parlour and tobacconist. My grandfather Charlie, at the same time as maintaining the ice-cream side of the business, expanded into fish and chips by opening a restaurant next door. And then in the late 1960s and 70s, my parents expanded the range of ice-cream flavours dramatically and refurbished the shop into a modern Italian Gelateria. My husband Owen and I have been running the business for over 25 years. Our aim is to carry on the family tradition of making only the best quality Gelato, create new and delicious flavours and indulge our customers!”

Luvian’s Ice Cream Parlour “Founded in 1981 and situated in St Andrews and Cupar, in the heart of the Kingdom of Fife, Luvians Bottles Shops specialise in the very highest quality of whiskies, wines, beers and spirits from all over the world. Meanwhile, their Ice Cream Parlours delight customers in all Scottish weather with award winning luxury dairy ice cream made daily on the premises to a fiercely kept family secret recipe!”

Fisher & Donaldson is a Royal Warrant-holding fifth generation family bakery specialising in traditional, handmade goods including their world famous fudge doughnuts, coffee towers, Dr Floyd bread and Fife oatcakes. You’ll find them on Church Street.

 

Restaurants …

Dolls House “The Doll’s House is one of St Andrew’s most recognisable spots to eat & drink. Specialising in hearty “good mood food”, The Doll’s House offers a diverse range of quality seasonal menu items- from brunch to an ever changing market menu. We boast an abundance of fresh scones and cakes to accompany our specialty tea and coffee. Our menu is packed full of scrumptious bites and classic cuts as well as our chef’s seasonal specials. With traditional Scottish favourites, come and find out for yourself how truly delightful the Doll’s House dining experience is. Those joining us at The Doll’s House for Sunday Roast every week can feel good about the splurge – we will donate 50p from the sale of each roast to Families First – a local charity based in the area.”

Dunvegan “Golfers Corner is covered from ceiling to floor with world famous golfers that have visited the Dunvegan over the past 25 years, including 35 Major Champions and golfing celebs from sport & film. We even have a picture of the 1st Man on the moon! The most important pictures, though, are Dunvegan friends who have enjoyed their time with us during their pilgrimage to St Andrews. Golfers Corner, one of the best 19th holes, is everything Golf. Hang out here to keep up to date with what happens within the doors of the Dunvegan. You never know what (or who) you will see next! Catch up on pictures, videos, and what is happening in the world of social media right here. Use our Members Forum to share tips and tricks with your fellow golfing buddies on the best way to have an unforgettable experience at the home of Golf! Send in your pictures and join our hall of fame.“

Eden Clubhouse – Cafe Spike “Located within the Eden Clubhouse, a thriving hub for three of our finest golf courses, Cafe Spike proudly serve simple, Scottish fayre. Whether you are an early riser or looking for some late lunch, you will find morning rolls, sandwiches, home baking, Scottish-roasted coffee, tea and a selection of fine local ales, wine and ciders. The perfect spot for a pre or post golf visit for refreshments.”

Forgans “Forgan’s have adopted a simple ethos, to deliver quality Scottish produce-led food and drinks in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. At our original site in St Andrews, we have developed a reputation for hosting exclusive meals in our private Bothies and treating our guests to a dose of famous Scottish hospitality. Whether you’re looking for great place to wine and dine friends old & new, or simply a table to enjoy a tipple or two, we have something for everyone. Housed in a former “cleek factory”, some of the best golf clubs in the world were once manufactured on this site. The proprietor, Robert Forgan, was one of the most successful and well liked men in town, and thus our little restaurant and bar was named in honour of a St Andrews hero.”

Greyfriar’s “Did you know we serve food every day from noon until 8pm and our bar is also open from noon until 11pm?”

Hams Hame “Hams Hame Pub & Grill is a fabulous venue offering outstanding Scottish cuisine that showcases the best ingredients in an informal setting, where you can also watch sport on TV. Hams Hame is also the perfect place to stop and sample the heart-warming selection of teas, coffees and hot chocolate – perfect for a pre-match warmer or after a blast on West Sands Beach!”

Hotel Du Vin “Bistro du Vin is the focal point of our hotel in St Andrews. Experience a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere for breakfast, lunch and dinner – where guests can meet, celebrate or simply pass the time – at the classic, French-styled Bistro du Vin. At our bistro we create simple, robust and wholesome dishes to delight the tastebuds. Our Gallic influenced menu has an added British elegance.

The philosophy at our St Andrews bistro is simple, we want you to enjoy fresh flavours from produce that’s in season and complementary of each other. Excite the palate and the purse with amazing dishes that don’t break the bank. A warm and relaxed setting awaits you. Our staff are reliably educated on each dish and happy to share details of the ingredients and how our talented chef’s put them together. Our Sommeliers too are on hand to help pair you and your meal with the perfect wine.”

Kinnettles “Kinnettles Hotel is a new and bespoke luxury hotel nestled in the heart of the home of golf, St. Andrews. This 5-star boutique hotel will impress with its modern yet elegant look. The hotel hosts 9 luxurious suites, a state of the art spa which offers a range of prestige Espa treatments and products, an experience shower, a sauna, a Jacuzzi, a nail bar and hair salon. Kinnettles Hotel has been designed to offer guests a truly memorable experience, with luxury suites, bespoke spa facilities, exceptional cuisine, and unparalleled service.”

Little Italy “The cooking is a combination of spaghetti, pasta with mussels or prawns with plenty of vegetables and herbs. To achieve a delicious taste and balanced diet, unique Italian spices, olives and parsley are mixed delicately with the dishes. The restaurant is smallish and cosy form inside but the space is nicely organised with lovely Italian touches in the decor. You will find the place welcoming and warm as the staff are friendly and happy to help.”

Mitchell’s “Housed in a former Butcher’s in the heart of St Andrews, Mitchell’s is a restaurant & deli which specialises in Scottish produce. We are proud to work with over a dozen local suppliers to bring you the very best artisan breads & cakes, craft spirits, gourmet cheeses, preserves and specially selected wines.

We are the perfect place to stop by for a long and lazy brunch, or a warming hot drink and indulgent sweet treat in the afternoon. Come nightfall, Mitchell’s is transformed with a seasonal menu of hearty and wholesome dishes and is fully licensed.”

Playfair’s Restaurant “Playfair’s Restaurant and Steakhouse is a family-run business in St Andrews which serves up amazing dishes with an emphasis on Scottish food and ingredients. We have been awarded with one AA Rosette every year since 2015 and won Best Restaurant, North East Region at The Food Awards, Scotland in August 2015. Our Head Chef, Duncan McLachlan has also won Chef of the Year at The Food Awards Scotland in 2018 and 2019. 

If you’re looking for a great restaurant in St Andrews for with a warm Scottish welcome and great food, or to celebrate a special occasion, book your table, you won’t be disappointed! We have our lovely terraces where can enjoy seating outdoors in the sunshine, sheltered from the wind. We only have 5 tables out here so booking is a must. Please note, we do not have cover for our outdoor seating and cannot guarantee a table inside if the weather is poor.”

Rogue “The best of seasonal, sustainable Scottish seafood and dry aged beef. You’ll find us hidden away at the end of South Street in St Andrews. We only use the very best locally sourced produce to create a beautiful mix of dry aged beef and seafood within a classic cocktail bar setting.

At the back of our restaurant you’ll find our gin still which is where we create our very own no nonsense, contemporary Felons Gin. Our commitment is to serve only the very best of seasonal and sustainable Scottish seafood and dry aged beef. We’ve created an intimate, elegant atmosphere to be in – whether it’s champagne and oysters, martinis and lobsters, or even something as simple as burgers and beers.”

Rusacks St Andrews “The Bridge is a family-friendly, casual yet polished dining experience, with views over the infamous St Andrews’ Swilcan Bridge and the Old Course. Enjoy a range of British and European dishes here, all prepared with Johnstone’s ‘in-season and local’ ethos in mind. Reservations strongly encouraged. 

Led by award-winning chef Derek Johnstone and his culinary team, 18 is a destination rooftop restaurant and bar with unrivalled views across St Andrews’ Old Course and West Sands Beach. Expect plenty of sizzle—open-flame cooking is our forte, with locally sourced beef, game and freshly-caught seafood all skillfully prepared on our state-of-the-art Robata grill. A laid-back but high-end dining experience. Reservations strongly encouraged.

When a thirst needs quenching head to One Under Bar, our favourite Scottish pub just one minute from the golf course. Our extensive drinks menu includes fine ale, stout, red or white wine, a world-class dram or bespoke cocktails. Hunger pangs can be satisfied here too: traditional pub-food favourites are served at both lunch and dinner, and light bar snacks are also available. And if live music’s your thing, check out our weekend entertainment programme, featuring a wide range of musical talent to help while away your evening in foot-tapping style. Reservations strongly encouraged.”

Russell Hotel “The ‘Restaurant at The Russell’ is inspired by Scottish influences with a traditional yet contemporary edge. Head chef Michael Smith has developed a dinner menu that not only utilizes the most seasonal of flavours, but also showcases the local produce provided by the wealth of dedicated and talented producers and suppliers that we have on our doorstep. The Restaurant also offers a diverse and well-edited wine list, chosen with care and attention by our restaurant manager Michael de Vries. Here you will find something to compliment your meal, or perhaps some bubbles, for celebrating that special occasion.”

Seafood Ristorante “The stunning Seafood Ristorante is located over the beach just behind the Royal and Ancient Golf Club in St Andrews. The restaurant has amazing panaramic views over St Andrews Bay and West Sands Beach. What better location to enjoy our top quality seafood dishes?

We use locally sourced and sustainable produce, supplied fresh daily, to create our beautiful and delicious plates which are elevated with an inspired Italian twist. We offer an exquisite dining experience plus informal, accessible specialità del giorno if you only want to catch up with friends for a casual “bite”, discuss work or just chill.”

St Andrews Links Clubhouse & Tom Morris Bar & Grill “Located within the heart of the Links Clubhouse celebrating the life and influence of the Grand Old Man of Golf overlooking the courses he helped to shape, The Tom Morris Bar & Grill is a Scottish produce driven casual dining restaurant with a real sense of history and authenticity.”

The Adamson “Founded in 2012 by Managing Director Julie Dalton and Director Graham Dalton, The Adamson occupies a historic site in the town. The property was originally home to the Adamson family in the early 1800s. Their eldest son, Dr. John, was a physician and pioneer photographer. He took the first calotype portrait in Scotland in 1841.

In the heart of St Andrews at 127 South Street, The Adamson is the perfect place to eat, drink and socialise. Throughout 2021, The Adamson creates a set of seasonal menus as part of the restaurant’s dedication to using the freshest ingredients and commitment to sustainability and provenance with our suppliers. We continue to support & train new talent entering the industry and participate each November in the St Andrews Food & Drink Festival.”

The Haar “If you’re looking for the best seafood restaurant in St Andrews, look no further than Haar. A sensory experience like no other. Haar will stimulate all your senses as you dine. All 5 senses will be engaged to change the way you experience food.

At Haar, we believe in sustainability and locally sourced ingredients. This ethos can be seen throughout the restaurant, from its interior construction materials, the crockery chosen right through to the food and drink items served.“

The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa The five red star resort has a series of dining experiences to suit every taste …

“The Road Hole Restaurant (below, left): dinner focuses on the very best Scottish seafood and grills – we have oysters, lobsters, langoustines, scallops and some fine Black Isle steaks, along with other wholesome favourites. The menu has a great selection of both starters, main courses and desserts – all of which are of the highest quality and presented in a friendly environment with one of the best views in Scotland.

The Swilcan Loft restaurant (below, middle) and bar features floor-to-ceiling windows and uninterrupted views of the Old Course golf course, West Sands Beach and the iconic Hamilton Grand building. It is located on the fourth floor of the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa and serves an eclectic international menu created with locally sourced Scottish produce. Swilcan Loft is the perfect place for those looking for an indulgent lunch or dinner with good selection of wines and innovative cocktails.

The Jigger Inn (above, right) dates back to the 1850s, when it was the stationmaster’s lodge. Today, The Jigger Inn is home to golfing memorabilia, crackling open-hearth fires, home-cooked food and a superb selection of Scottish beers. The pub’s own Jigger Ale is available only at The Jigger Inn, St Andrews and at The Horse & Plow at Forbes Five Star-awarded The American Club in Kohler, Wisconsin, USA.

Afternoon Tea at the Old Course Hotel is the perfect gift for a special occasion, or is just to be enjoyed in all its decadence. It is served in either the conservatory or the 4th floor restaurant, both with stunning views across the Old Course. Enjoy sandwiches, scones, cakes and pastries and a wide selection of teas, and perhaps a glass or two of champagne too!”

The Rav “Modern European dining overlooking the historic St Salvator’s Chapel. Local, seasonal produce and signature cocktails served in a skylit, loft-style restaurant in the heart of St Andrews.”

The Scores “The BEST WESTERN Scores Hotel is the closest hotel to the 1st tee of the world famous Old Course and the Royal and Ancient Clubhouse. The hotel occupies two traditional Victorian Town Houses dating back to 1864 and 1880 and retains many of the large former drawing rooms as Junior Suites. There are 36 rooms in total, many of which have stunning views over the West Sands beach whilst other enjoy an outlook over the landscaped garden and terraces.”

The Vine Leaf

Zizzi “We’re not your standard Italian, we like things a bit different. Like our 18-inch Rustica pizzas, King Prawn Spiedini or our S’Mores Fondue – because what’s a world without a few twists?”

 

St Andrews supermarkets …

Aldi   |   M&S Simply Food    |    Morrisons    |    Tesco Express

 

Take a detour …

Beyond St Andrews – heading towards Kingsbarns and the East Neuk, you will find the Fairmont St Andrews. Set on a 520 acre estate with a unique coastal setting, the Fairmont “encapsulates luxury, elegance and truly breath-taking surroundings in the ‘Home of Golf’. A truly unique and special venue that makes your visit one to remember with its peaceful setting and stunning cliff top views of St Andrews and the North Sea.” It has three eateries …

The Squire Restaurant – named after Gene ‘The Squire’ Sarazen, the golfing legend and a past winner of the Grand Slam of golf, The Squire restaurant provides a relaxing environment to enjoy an extravagant buffet breakfast each morning. The Squire is also the perfect venue to host corporate lunches, dinners and live-cooking events.

St Andrews Bar & Grill – set upon a spectacular cliff top with stunning panoramic views over two championship golf courses and St Andrews Bay, St Andrews Bar & Grill pride themselves on sourcing local, seasonal produce from surrounding farms and suppliers in Scotland. After dinner, enjoy drinks or a dram on the outdoor deck, whilst watching the sunset over the historic town of St Andrews. With such a perfect setting, you will not want to leave!

La Cucina – the heart of the resort beats in La Cucina, an Italian eatery offering delicious and simple dishes with the accent on taste. The menu focuses on freshly prepared dishes featuring an extensive selection of antipasti, gourmet pizza, pasta, daily specials, local seafood, fish & meats. Enjoy authentic ingredients, beautiful recipes, cooked and served with passion.

It also offers an Afternoon Tea experience …

“Offering an afternoon sweet treat in St Andrews with glorious views, the Fairmont Afternoon Tea showcases a range of teas served with homemade finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream & jam, and a selection of indulgent seasonal cakes and pastries created by the hotel’s Executive Pastry Chef. Guests experience this offering in the heart of the hotel in the Atrium lounge which features a lighting sculpture that hangs gracefully above. The 60 metre lighting sculpture is by artist George Singer and named ‘Zephyr’ which he describes it being inspired by “the beautiful rolling hills, the crashing waves on the rugged coastal rocks, the long grasses blowing in the wind and the enormous dramatic skies”.

Also outside St Andrews – on the south-east side of town – is The Grange Inn, a 17th century converted farmhouse with a restaurant that has panoramic views looking out over St Andrews and St. Andrews Bay. Chef Proprietor, John Kelly, has created lunch and evening menus using the freshest of local produce. You’ll also find a cosy bar – with real fires – serving local craft beers.

Another destination worth discovering outside the town is The Duke’s Course and Craigtoun Country Park. It is a zig-zag cross-country from The Grange – or better to drive back into St Andrews and out on the B939 passing the Botanic Garden. The award-winning clubhouse – open to visitors – offers one of the best views of any cafe, bar or restaurant in the area … panoramic vistas across Scotland’s longest golf course to the spires and towers of St Andrews and sea beyond. Craigtoun Park is a lovely place to while away some time with walks through the woods and gardens.

Our final stop before returning to Cupar is Balgove. Conceived from “a love of fresh, Scottish fare“, Balgove is a hub for seasonal, locally reared, grown, stalked, caught, handmade and prepared foods. A farm shop and cafe, the site also includes a traditional butchery, The Flower Shed, homestore and Steak Barn.

Their latest venture – The Pizza Box – is located adjacent to The Flower Shed, and serves wood fired pizzas.

Rejoin the main road at Balgove – and return to Cupar via the A91.