Top 5 Places to Eat in St Andrews

Drone shot showcasing the historical ruins of St Andrews Castle, Fife, Scotland.
Valentine Kulikov, Pexels

St Andrews offers a vibrant culinary landscape, celebrated for its fresh, locally sourced Scottish ingredients that appeal to a diverse audience, including visiting golfers, university students, families, and couples seeking memorable meals. The town's eateries range from relaxed casual spots to sophisticated dining experiences, with a notable emphasis on high-quality seafood.

1. The Adamson

Cuisine: Modern Scottish and European Brasserie

The Adamson provides an award-winning dining experience in a stylish, contemporary setting with exposed brickwork and a vibrant cocktail bar. The menu features innovative dishes crafted from locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, including options like fresh oysters, perfectly cooked steaks, and creative main courses. This is a perfect choice for those seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed meal or an evening out with impressive cocktails.

Price: Main courses £14-£20; Starters £6.50-£12; Desserts around £11 (approx. $18-$25 USD per main course). Price range per person £15-£37.

Getting There: Located centrally at 127 South Street, it is easily walkable from most parts of the town centre.

2. Forgan's

Cuisine: Scottish cuisine with a modern twist

Set in a converted golf club factory, Forgan's offers a chic yet inviting atmosphere, often enhanced by live music and traditional ceilidh nights. The restaurant is renowned for its warm hospitality and a menu that balances classic and contemporary Scottish dishes, such as hearty Ox Cheek Pie and Arbroath Smokie & Mussel Gratin. Semi-private 'bothies' offer a unique dining option for groups.

Price: Main courses £15-£20; Steaks £35-£45; Starters £7-£13 (approx. $19-$25 USD per main course).

Getting There: Situated at 110-112 Market Street, it is in the heart of St Andrews and easily accessible on foot.

3. Tailend

Cuisine: Fresh seafood and traditional British fish & chips

This family-run, award-winning restaurant and takeaway is a local favourite, popular with students, tourists, and golfers for its commitment to fresh, ethically sourced seafood. Fish is supplied daily from their own fish merchants and can be prepared battered, breaded, or grilled, with gluten-free chips always available. Beyond their famous fish and chips, they offer other seafood dishes and casual non-fish options like burgers.

Price: Regular battered fish £14.50; Other seafood dishes and burgers £9-£14 (approx. $12-$18 USD per main). Small plates/starters £6.50-£9.50.

Getting There: Located at 130 Market Street, it is centrally positioned and within easy walking distance from the main town areas.

4. Blackhorn Burgers

Cuisine: Gourmet burgers and wraps

Blackhorn Burgers is a well-known spot for its quality, handmade burgers, using 100% Scottish beef from local farmers. The menu includes a variety of classic and specialty burgers, wraps, and indulgent milkshakes made with local ice cream. Gluten-free options, such as lettuce wraps, are available. It's a popular, quick-serve eatery with a cosy ambiance, perfect for a casual and satisfying meal.

Price: Burgers £5.75-£9.50; Shakes around £6.25 (approx. $7-$12 USD per burger).

Getting There: Found at 10 Church Street, it is conveniently located in the town centre and easily accessible by foot.

5. The Cheesy Toast Shack

Cuisine: Gourmet cheese toasties and light bites

This popular food truck, situated by East Sands Beachfront, is famous for its hearty and gooey cheese toasties. Options range from classic mac and cheese to more inventive combinations like Red Leicester with chorizo and chili jam. It's a casual, family-friendly spot that can get busy, so be prepared for a queue, especially during peak times. They even offer toastie 'insurance' against seagulls.

Price: Toasties £6.25-£7.25; Milkshakes £4.95 (approx. $8-$9 USD per toastie).

Getting There: Located at Woodburn Place, East Sands Beach, it is a pleasant walk from the town centre, or a short taxi ride if preferred.