Located on the Scottish coast and home to the oldest university in the Scotland, St Andrews is a town filled with history, beauty, and a diverse local culture. Fiercely proud of its heritage and small town appeal, St Andrews has notably managed to stave off many of the larger chain restaurants and fast food outlets, relying instead on its enormous variety of independent cafés and restaurants. Here are a few of our favourites…

The Seafood Ristorante is perhaps St Andrews’ most dramatic and picturesque place to eat. Located on the edge of a high bank with the sea foaming just below, the restaurant affords spectacular views of the Scottish coastline, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows which make up its four walls. The interior is fresh and modern, with white tablecloths and contemporary furniture providing a calming contrast to the awe-inspiring views outside. For seafood enthusiasts, the menu is a treasure trove. Lobster is grilled with garlic butter and served with sautéed potatoes and samphire, Shetland Isle mussels are steamed in local St Andrews beer, and scallops are fried with broccoli, honey and black pudding crumbs for a mouthwatering, fresh approach to seafood.

A cross between a traditional British chippie and contemporary dining, Tailend Restaurant and Fish Bar provides all the satisfaction and tastiness of classic fish and chips, with the freshness and quality of a coastal restaurant. All of their dishes, from their haddock supper, served battered, breaded or lightly fried with homemade pesto, to their chargrilled garlic and chilli king prawn skewers are made fresh to order, and the specials board regularly features seasonal fresh fish sourced locally. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of wines and locally brewed beers to complement the dishes, making Tailend the perfect spot for a relaxed evening out with friends.

Forgan’s is a St Andrews institution and a favourite among locals, students and tourists alike. The restaurant is housed in an old golf-club factory, and charmingly features crates of produce and fairy lights leading up to the main entrance. Stepping through the doors, visitors are greeted by a stunning interior. Gold thread lanterns hang low from the ceiling, old-fashioned farmhouse tables are paired with contemporary chairs, and roomy private alcoves filled with bookshelves and curiosities line one side of the room, creating the perfect juxtaposition between rustic and an industrial aesthetic. The menu features delicious twists on British classics, such as the duck shepherd’s pie or the haggis served with neeps, tatties and a whisky gravy, and on Friday and Saturday evenings, dinner culminates in a traditional ceilidh with a live band.

Little Italy has all of the character and charm of an authentic, small town Italian restaurant. The interior is small and intimate, with red walls and tall candles placed in old wine bottles at each table, creating a warm, cosy atmosphere. Red and white chequered tablecloths, framed vintage posters, black and white photographs, and a vibrant red and green ceiling add to the authentic Italian feel. This carries over to its menu. Pizzas are served with stretched, crisp bases and piled generously with traditional tomato sauce, mozzarella, and a range of toppings, while the pasta dishes are an explosion of rich sauces, spices and fresh herbs.

18 St Andrews is the town’s newest restaurant and provides arguably the most dramatic setting. With views over West Sands Beach and the 18th fairway of The Old Course, 18 is led by award winning chef Derek Johnstone, serving the very best seasonal and locally sourced Scottish beef, seafood and game. The 18 Bar offers a broad range of bespoke and classic cocktails, fine wines and specialty beers

Rogue offers the best of seasonal, sustainable Scottish seafood and dry aged beef. This stylish restaurant is hidden away at the end of South Street in St Andrews… At the back of their restaurant you’ll find a gin still which is where they create their very own no nonsense, contemporary Felons Gin. Rogue has 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… You’ll find something for everyone at Rogue