The best places to eat in St Andrews

Days out, Food and Drink, Destinations

Posted by Stephane Lawes on 31st July 2024

The remains of St Andrews Cathedral on a cloudy day in Scotland

Set on Scotland’s eastern coast, the charming and historic town of St Andrews beckons all those seeking cobblestone streets, medieval ruins, and vibrant Scottish culture. Where age-old castles and cathedral remains meet the North Sea and its rugged shoreline, St Andrews is a wonderful destination for a Scottish holiday, with plenty of things to see and do. 

While the seaside town is known for its ties to St Andrew's Day and the famous St Andrews Links (the Home of Golf), it is also popular for its vibrant range of eateries, with local seafood being the order of the day. 

In this blog, we will guide you through our favourite places to eat in St Andrews, and you can start planning your Scottish getaway today by clicking the button below and exploring our collection of holiday cottages and self-catering lodges in and around the town.

Holiday cottages in St Andrews


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Restaurants in St Andrews

The narrow, cobbled streets of St Andrews are lined with historic buildings, many of which play host to welcoming restaurants serving classic Scottish dishes from the waters and fields around. Below, are just three of our favourite restaurants in town.


The view from a seafood restaurant in St Andrews, and a close-up of a plate with fish and vegetablesPhoto credit: The Seafood Ristorante (both images)

The Seafood Ristorante

St Andrews’ coastal position has earned the town a reputation for fantastic seafood, with haddock, salmon and fresh shellfish topping the charts. If you fancy trying these ocean delights for yourself, then The Seafood Ristorante is one of the best seafood restaurants in St Andrews. 

Perched on a cliff edge and overlooking the waters of West Sands Beach where tomorrow’s dinner swims, this scenic, glass-fronted restaurant offers jaw-dropping views to match their fishy dishes. 

The seasonal lunch menu boasts natural oysters in a shallot vinaigrette followed by spiced halibut cheek, and main courses like Shetland cod. In the evening, the dinner menu expands, boasting Orkney scallops and crab spaghetti for starters, and Scottish turbot or steamed halibut for mains.

Good to know

  • Location: Bruce Embankment, St Andrews, KY16 9AB
  • Opening times: 12pm–11pm Tuesday to Saturday, closed Sunday to Monday
  • Why not try? Shetland cod served with Wye Valley asparagus, rosti potato and pea puree
  • Stay nearby: Duke Lodge, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

A view of St Andrews from the water, and a photo of a wagyu beef burger

Forgan's St Andrews

If you are visiting St Andrews with a passion for golf, then combine it with an appetite for classic Scottish fare in this former cleek factory-turned restaurant where the best golf clubs in the world were once made. 

In the heart of town, Forgan's St Andrews is a celebration of all things Scottish, and it’s no doubt one of the best places to eat in St Andrews if you’re craving national classics like haggis bon bons and fresh Scottish salmon. 

Other popular dishes include the market board of daily cuts where exclusive, dry-aged steaks and tomahawks are served with garlic and herb butter. The homemade burgers also stand out, particularly The Forgan’s Wagyu burger, while little ones are catered for with the ‘wee menu’.

Good to know

  • Location: 110 Market Street, St Andrews, KY16 9PB
  • Opening times: 12pm–11pm Sunday to Friday, 12pm–2am Saturday
  • Why not try? Smoked venison and pear salad served with toasted hazelnuts
  • Stay nearby: Eden Lodge, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Outside a cute, traditional Italian restaurant in St Andrews, and a close-up of bowls of spaghetti Photo credit: Little Italy (left image)

Little Italy

Scotland’s roots with Italy run deep. During the 19th and 20th centuries, many Italians emigrated to the country, bringing with them their classic recipes combining all things pizza and pasta. There is now a wide range of Italian places to eat in St Andrews, and Little Italy in the heart of town is one of the best. 

Rustic, wooden-framed windows set the scene on arrival, while Italian family photos and famous bottles of wine adorn the walls – creating the perfect atmosphere for an evening of Italian cuisine. 

Choose from classic starters like toasted bruschetta, crispy calamari or carpaccio, before choosing from a wealth of artisan pizzas and authentic plates of pasta. With risotto dishes and chicken platters also on the menu, there’s something for everyone at Little Italy.

Good to know

  • Location: 2 Logies Lane, St Andrews, KY16 9NL
  • Opening times: 1pm–3.30pm and 5.30pm–10.30pm daily
  • Why not try? Gnocchi alla Romana served with fresh spinach and gorgonzola
  • Stay nearby: St Andrews Townhouse, St Andrews | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

Pubs in St Andrews

If you are looking for places to eat in St Andrews and fancy a traditional environment with plenty of history, then the town’s age-old pubs are on hand with busy menus of local beers, whiskies, and classic Scottish fare.


A typical Scottish Haggis dish, and an aerial view of St Andrews

Central Bar

No one likes to leave the dog at home during a family holiday, so if you’re seeking dog-friendly places to eat in St Andrews and fancy a lively pub environment, head straight to the traditional embrace of Central Bar

Choose to sit inside to keep toasty or watch life go by from the street-side beer garden. Quench your thirst by choosing from a wide range of wines, beers, and of course, whiskies. 

When it is time to eat, small plates like battered haddock goujons or haggis fritters beckon, while sharing platters are on hand if you fancy picking and chatting. Main courses include towering burgers, as well as pub classics like steak and local ale pie, fish and chips, and flat iron steak.

Good to know

  • Location: 77 Market Street, St Andrews, KY16 9NU
  • Opening times: 11am–12am Sunday to Thursday, 11am–1am Friday to Saturday
  • Why not try? Slow-cooked steak and ale pie in puff pastry with buttered mash
  • Stay nearby: Strathtyrum Lodge, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Two external photos of The Criterion in St Andrews in Scotland Photo credit: The Criterion (both images)

The Criterion

The Criterion is one of the best dog-friendly places to eat in St Andrews. This family-run locals' pub is the place to go for Scottish hospitality and even better Scottish food. Located at the centre of town, The Criterion charms with its red facade adorned with trailing plants, and the bistro-style table and chairs that spill out into the street. 

Visit in the morning, and from the breakfast menu choose from the likes of traditional hot rolls and belly buster breakfasts. Lighter bites through the day include salads, ciabattas, and haggis fritters, while main courses include Scottish classics like Cullen skink and locally caught haddock.

Good to know

  • Location: 99 South Street, St Andrews, KY16 9QW
  • Opening times: 10am–12am every day
  • Why not try? Cri’ pie packed with chicken, chorizo and sun-dried tomatoes
  • Stay nearby: The Jubilee Lodge, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

The chic interior of a pub restaurant in St Andrews, a close-up of a plate of meat and salad Photo credit: The Saint Bar and Kitchen (both images)

The Saint Bar and Kitchen

Housed in the former West Port of St Andrews, in the very building that marked the entrance to South Street, the exposed stone walls and classic Scottish décor at The Saint Bar and Kitchen create a wonderful atmosphere to enjoy locally sourced food and drink. 

Eat in the peaceful rear garden on warm days or under antler chandeliers inside through the winter, and when it comes to choosing your dish, find a wide range of plates that celebrate Scotland. 

Starters include a local spin on bubble and squeak as well as locally sourced flakes of creamy haddock. Wholesome dishes include St Monans fish and chips and grilled fillet of seabass, while the impressive burgers will leave the hungriest of diners satisfied.

Good to know

  • Location: 170 South Street, St Andrews, KY16 9EG
  • Opening times: 9am–12am every day
  • Why not try? St Monans battered haddock served with thick-cut chips and mushy peas
  • Stay nearby: St Andrews Seaview Cottage, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Cafes in St Andrews

St Andrews plays host to a charming selection of cafes, each serving their own spin on classic Scottish bakes served alongside steaming teas and coffees. Below, are just three of our favourite cafes for foodies in St Andrews.


Coffee pouring into a mug from a machine, a close-up of a vegetarian tart and salad Photo credit: The Cottage Kitchen (both images)

The Cottage Kitchen

The ancient, cobbled streets around Church Square in the heart of St Andrews must have played host to centuries of wining and dining, and the independently owned, award-winning Cottage Kitchen continues to do just this. 

One of the best places to eat in St Andrews if you are seeking relaxed and vibrant café vibes, the Cottage Kitchen won Best Bistro in Fife at the 2022 Scottish Business Awards, and one quick glance at the menu explains why. 

Choose from classic, home-cooked breakfasts in the morning, and later in the day, find that the main menu boasts light dishes like Cullen sink and smoked salmon tarts, while bigger bites include steak frites and wild mushroom en croûte.

Good to know

  • Location: 5 Logies Lane, St Andrews, KY16 9NL
  • Opening times: 8.30am–5pm Monday to Saturday, 9am–5pm Sunday
  • Why not try? The wee veggie fried breakfast
  • Stay nearby: Thirty Seven Luxe Lodges, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 1 dog

The inside of Bibi's Cafe in St Andrews, and three hot chocolates with whipped cream lined up Photo credit: Bibi's Cafe (both images)

Bibi's Cafe

Set in the buzzing streets that surround the town’s famous university, Bibi’s Cafe is a popular spot amongst students and locals alike, and it is one of the best places to eat in St Andrews if you are craving a wholesome breakfast or a humble slice of cake with coffee. 

Beyond the cooked breakfast and daily bakes, Bibi’s also plays host to weekly sharing nights, inspired by various cuisines every Friday. Check their social media ahead of your visit and you may be in for a night of chatting over charcuterie sharing boards, antipasti, and plenty more with your loved ones.

Good to know

  • Location: 5 Ellice Place, St Andrews, KY16 9HU
  • Opening times: 9am–4pm every day
  • Why not try? Join one of their weekly sharing platter nights (every Friday)
  • Stay nearby: Fifty One Luxe Lodges, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 1 dog

The front of Northpoint Cafe in St AndrewsPhoto credit: Northpoint Cafe

Northpoint Cafe

Found near the rocky outcrops where St Andrews meets the sea, and just a short stroll from St Andrews Castle, Northpoint Cafe combines classic Scottish fare with typical cafe vibes. Interestingly, it got royal approval when Prince William and Kate Middleton stopped by for a coffee during their time at St Andrews University. 

From the menu, choose from classic dishes with a modern spin like the haggis breakfast burrito or the all-day Northpoint breakfast. Stacks of pancakes await oozing with maple syrup, as does a wide range of soups and sandwiches for those needing a midday refuel during a tour of the old town.

Good to know

  • Location: 24 North Street, St Andrews, KY16 9AQ
  • Opening times: 8.30am–5pm daily
  • Why not try? Stack of six buttermilk pancakes with crispy bacon and maple syrup
  • Stay nearby: Kirk View 36, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Takeaways in St Andrews

If you have booked a stay in one of our cottages and fancy eating in the comfort of your pyjamas, then you will love the wealth of takeaways in St Andrews. From seafood restaurants delivering to the door to classic kebabs and Indian takeouts, below are three of our favourite takeaways in town.


Two close-up photos of fish meals from a takeaway in St AndrewsPhoto credit: Tailend St Andrews (both images)

Tailend St Andrews

If you are on the hunt for seafood restaurants in St Andrews but don’t fancy eating out, then make full use of the award-winning menu and convenient delivery and click-and-collect services at Tailend St Andrews.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that this is just another chippy – it’s not. This chic restaurant prides itself on fresh, locally caught seafood and goes the extra mile with lobsters, langoustines, halibut, and plenty more.

Good to know

  • Location: 130 Market Street, St Andrews, KY16 9PD
  • Opening times: 12pm–10pm every day
  • Why not try? Pan-fried seabass fillet with herby potatoes and lemon and herb butter
  • Stay nearby: Bruntshiels Byre, St Andrews | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

The interior of Shawarma House in St Andrews, and a close-up photo of takeaway food Photo credit: St Andrews Shawarma House (left image)

St Andrews Shawarma House

St Andrews offers great nightlife, no doubt thanks to the university nearby, so if you find yourself looking for places to eat and all the restaurants closed hours ago, then follow the smell of Middle Eastern cuisine and find Shawarma House in the centre of town. 

With a delivery service also on offer, the menu impresses and promises authentic shawarma dishes as well as falafel and halloumi wraps, and more common dishes like pizzas, burgers, and house salads.

Good to know

  • Location: 131 South Street, St Andrews, KY16 9UN
  • Opening times: 12pm–3am daily
  • Why not try? Lamb shawarma served with chips and salad
  • Stay nearby: The Cormorant, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 1 dog

The exterior of Jahangir Tandoor Restaurant in St Andrews, and an overhead photo of a person cooking Indian foodPhoto credit: Jahangir Tandoor Restaurant (left image)

Jahangir Tandoor Restaurant

Serving locals since 1998, Jahangir Tandoor Restaurant is one of the best Indian places to eat in St Andrews, and their award-winning menu will back that up. If you don’t fancy eating inside the traditional restaurant, then opt for the takeaway service or have food delivered to your door. 

The menu tells the story of Prince Jehangire, born in 1558 and whom this restaurant was named after. After that, the menu offers long lists of charcoal tandoori dishes, traditional curries, seafood selections, house thalis and plenty more.

Good to know

  • Location: 116 South Street, St Andrews, KY16 9QD
  • Opening times: 12pm–2.30pm, 5pm–11pm Monday to Saturday, 5pm–11pm Sunday
  • Why not try? Jahangir special chicken kebab cooked in a charcoal oven
  • Stay nearby: The Stork, St Andrews | sleeps 4 + 1 dog

Map of places to eat in St Andrews

To help you find our favourite places to eat in St Andrews including the best restaurants, pubs, cafes, and takeaways, explore our map below.

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Stay at one of our holiday cottages in St Andrews

Now you are clued up on the best places to eat in St Andrews, why not start planning your Scottish break today by exploring our collection of holiday cottages nearby? With properties for large group stays, intimate retreats for couples, and even dog-friendly townhouses, there’s something for everyone in our St Andrews collection.

Holiday cottages in St Andrews

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.