Embark on a culinary journey with through Scotland's historic gems, St. Andrews and Edinburgh. These are the two places I lived in and so can offer my expertise. They are both wonderful places to visit, offering an array of dining experiences sure to delight any palate. From cosy cafes tucked away in cobblestone streets to elegant restaurants boasting panoramic views, these cities blend tradition with innovation in their vibrant culinary scenes. Let's have a look at some of my favourite places to go...
St Andrews
1. Haar
££££
Haar is the epitome of relaxed fine dining in the heart of St Andrews. From the moment you step through our doors, prepare to embark on a culinary journey like no other. Led by renowned chef Dean Banks, Haar offers a unique style of cooking that tantalizes the senses and delights the palate. Sustainability and locally sourced ingredients are at the core of our ethos, evident in every aspect of the restaurant, from the construction materials of the interior to the carefully selected crockery and, of course, the exceptional food and drink offerings.
Their menu showcases the best seafood and local produce, ensuring each dish is a true celebration of the region's culinary treasures. Experience the magic of Haar, where every meal is a testament to passion, creativity, and the beauty of Scotland's bountiful land and sea.
Recommendation:
✨For a special occasion, try their tasting menu and wine pairing, you will not regret it!
2. Old Course Hotel
£££-££££
Indulge in the quintessential British tradition of Afternoon Tea at the Old Course Hotel in St. Andrews, where every moment is steeped in elegance and charm. Settle into the refined ambience of the Road Hole Restaurant and treat yourself to a delightful array of sandwiches, pastries, scones, cakes, and an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas. As you sip and savour, let your gaze wander across the iconic Old Course, soaking in unrivalled views that enhance the experience. Feeling a bit bubbly? Opt in for their Champagne Afternoon Tea for an extra touch of luxury, or perhaps our Rosé Afternoon Tea for a hint of romance.
However, I do not think any option beats their classic afternoon tea at £36 per person. It is on the spennier side, however, I am an afternoon tea fanatic and have not found anything better yet than what they serve here. Particularly with the view!
Recommendation:
✨Get their classic afternoon tea with unlimited tea, like you have never had before.
3. Rocca
££
Fancy a piece of Italy while in St. Andrews? Well, Rocca has your back. As a small, family-run cafe and delicatessen, they pour our hearts into every aspect of our operation, from sourcing the finest ingredients to providing top-notch service. At Rocca, quality is our hallmark, and offer high-quality produce to our valued customers. Whether you're stopping by for a quick espresso and pastry or perusing our selection of artisanal cheeses and cured meats, they strive to exceed your expectations with every visit.
Recommendation:
✨I would highly recommend making your own toasted sandwich and grabbing a vanilla macaron for dessert!
4. 7 by Balbirnie
£££
This isn't technically in St. Andrews, but doable by taxi and 100% worth the mention. Your ultimate dining destination is nestled in the charming region of Fife. Picture this: an exclusive private room, perfect for gatherings of 4 to 6 guests, tucked right next to our bustling kitchen. Yup, you read that right! At 7 by Balbirnie, you don't just taste the magic – you see and hear it too. Imagine being able to watch our talented chefs in action, hustling and bustling to create culinary masterpieces right before your eyes. It's like being front-row at a foodie concert! And the best part? Our SEVEN-course tasting menu is here to blow your mind, meticulously curated to dazzle your taste buds with every single bite. Trust me, at just £38.50 per person, this is a culinary journey you won't want to miss. So come on down and join us at 7 by Balbirnie, where every meal is a magical experience waiting to happen.
Recommendation:
Their 7-course tasting menu
5. Little Italy
££-£££
In the heart of St. Andrews, known far and wide as the golfing capital, lies an authentic Italian restaurant, Little Italy. If you are a fan of fresh and vibrant flavours, with plenty of garlic, then you have come to the right place. Their menu specialises in classic Italian flavours and dishes, however, it is the interior that gets me every time. It feels like stepping into a teleportation device where you are suddenly in Italy. Enjoy their homemade garlic bread, bursting with flavour and delight, at a candlelit dinner. Mangia bene, ridi spesso, ama molto - Eat well, laugh often, love much.
Recommendations:
✨Pane con Aglio Garlic bread
✨Penne Alla Lele Fresh Italian sausage, onion, mixed peppers, white wine, garlic, saffron, chilli and tomato sauce
✨Penne della Casa Chicken, bacon, cherry tomato, garlic, saffron, white wine, tomato sauce and fresh basil
✨Penne all’ Amatriciana Smoked bacon, onion, garlic, chilli, white wine and tomato
✨Polio ai Funghi (This one is my favourite! It is on the more expensive side, but you get so much food and it is simply delicious) Supreme of chicken with porcini and mixed mushrooms, cream and white wine. Served with sautéed potatoes
Edinburgh
1. Baba
££-£££
Step into BABA and feel the buzz of George Street envelop you. The space is decked out in vibrant turquoise and eclectic textiles, setting the stage for an authentic dining adventure. Here, they blend Middle Eastern flair with the rich flavours of Scotland, resulting in a menu that's as innovative as it is mouthwatering. From our mezze to our charcoal grill specialities featuring succulent Scottish lamb, beef, and seafood, each dish is crafted with care and passion. This is one of my favourite places to eat in Edinburgh, as you get a bit of everything; mixing, matching, and sharing great food with great company.
Recommendation:
✨Their various dips and pittas are a must! I would prioritise the smaller (and cheaper) plates over the larger ones as I find them usually tastier and better value for money.
2. Dusit
££-£££
Since its opening in 2002 by Pom and his dedicated team, Dusit Thai Restaurant has garnered widespread acclaim from both local and national press. Renowned for its fantastic food, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere, Dusit has become a staple in Edinburgh's culinary scene. Specialising in contemporary Thai cuisine, they source the finest fresh local produce and combine it with authentic herbs, spices, and Asian vegetables imported directly from Thailand. This commitment to quality has earned Dusit its well-deserved reputation as one of the top Thai restaurants in the country.
Recommendation:
Red Thai curry
3. Holy Cow
££
Holy Cow has been pioneering for plant-based delights since 2016. They offer mouth-watering homemade vegan burgers, sandwiches and baked goods. With a dedicated following of loyal vegan fans, Holy Cow has become a beloved destination for those seeking delicious, cruelty-free fare. Conveniently located just a short stroll from Edinburgh Waverley Train Station and a stone's throw away from St. Andrews Bus Station, the café is easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. It can get very busy so I would recommend booking. It is slightly underground so be sure to look down when searching for Holy Cow, otherwise you may miss it!
Recommendations
✨Any of their sandwiches (they change from time-to-time, however, all their sandwiches outshine the rest of their menu, in my opinion)
4. Fava
£££
Welcome to Fava, a culinary oasis, where authentic Greek flavours come to life with every bite. Flava has crafted a menu that pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of Greece. From recipes passed down through generations to dishes prepared with love and affection, each mouthful at Flava tells a story of tradition, family, and the true essence of Greek cuisine. I regularly go to Greece and have never quite managed to find any restaurant in the UK that reflects a similar quality of service, ambience and food as Greece. Until I came across Fava. So if you want a taste of Greece in Edinburgh, then head over to Fava🇬🇷
Recommendations
✨A selection of their dips and pitta
✨HTAPOD (Grilled octopus)
✨Fava mixed grill
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