Fife is one of the best places in Scotland for great food. If you love fresh seafood, warm Scottish comfort dishes, or fine dining by the sea, you will find something delicious in every town. From St Andrews to Anstruther, Dunfermline, Kirkcaldy, and the peaceful coastal villages, Fife offers restaurants for every taste and budget and is one of the top places to eat out in Fife. Many cafés and bakeries across Fife serve homemade scones, shortbread, and pancakes, and Scotland also has a strong love for Indian food. Today, Fife’s food scene is more diverse than ever. You can enjoy everything from Michelin-star meals and modern restaurants to family pubs, beach cafés, and hidden local gems.
This guide shares the best restaurants in Fife to help you find great places to eat out in the region.
Main bar and seating area at 18 Rooftop Restaurant Location: Above The Old Course Hotel, St Andrews
18 Rooftop Restaurant & Bar is one of the most unique dining spots in St Andrews, offering rooftop views over the famous Old Course and West Sands Beach. This modern restaurant provides a stylish setting where guests can enjoy creative Scottish dishes, cocktails, and light bites while taking in some of the best views in Fife.
The glass walls and open design make the space feel bright and elegant, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for date nights, celebrations, or a special lunch with friends. Because of its stunning coastline views and top-quality food, 18 Rooftop has become one of the most popular places to eat out in St Andrews for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
Luxurious dining space at The Grange Inn with coastal views, dark blue walls, and comfortable booth seating Location: Grange Rd, St Andrews
The Grange Inn is a 17th-century stone inn offering traditional Scottish dining with beautiful views over St Andrews Bay. This charming restaurant is set in a peaceful location just outside the town, making it a calm retreat from the busy streets of St Andrews.
The menu focuses on seasonal Scottish produce and includes dishes such as local seafood, lamb, beef, and hearty soups. The interior feels warm and historic, with wooden beams and classic décor that reflect its long history. The Grange Inn is a wonderful place for a romantic dinner or a quiet meal with family, especially for visitors who want authentic Scottish flavours in a traditional countryside setting.
The Boar's Head restaurant with warm lighting and decorative shelving displaying historical items Location: Boarhills, Near St Andrews
The Boar’s Head is a welcoming hotel restaurant near St Andrews known for its generous portions and delicious classic dishes. Many people visit for its slow-cooked lamb, steak pie, hearty roasts, and comforting Scottish food made with local ingredients.
The setting feels like a traditional countryside inn, with a warm and homely atmosphere perfect for relaxed dining after exploring the nearby coastal paths. Because of its friendly service and hearty meals, The Boar’s Head has become a favourite for both locals and travellers searching for good food close to St Andrews.
The Peat Inn Restaurant entrance and the projecting signpost visible on the right side Location: Peat Inn, Cupar KY15 5LH
The Peat Inn is one of Scotland’s most respected restaurants and holds a Michelin star for its outstanding food. This elegant dining spot is led by chef Geoffrey Smeddle, who creates beautiful dishes made with the best seasonal Scottish ingredients. The restaurant feels calm and private, making it perfect for romantic dinners, celebrations, or anyone wanting a luxury dining experience in Fife.
The tasting menu is the highlight, offering small, carefully prepared courses that showcase modern Scottish cuisine. With its refined atmosphere and exceptional flavours, The Peat Inn is one of the top places to eat out in Fife.
Fine dining restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sea and rocky shoreline Location: Bruce Embankment, St. Andrews KY16 9AB
The Seafood Ristorante sits directly on the coast in St Andrews, inside a modern glass building with stunning views of the water. It is known for serving fresh Scottish seafood prepared with Italian techniques, creating light and flavourful dishes. Popular options include hand-dived scallops, lobster, and seafood pasta made with high-quality ingredients.
The bright, modern interior and panoramic sea views make it one of the most beautiful seafood restaurants in Scotland. If you enjoy coastal dining and fresh Scottish fish, this is one of the best places to visit in St Andrews.
Location: St. Andrews KY16 9UY
The Bothy offers a warm and welcoming setting where you can enjoy traditional Scottish dishes made with local ingredients. The restaurant feels rustic and homely, with a menu that includes favourites like haggis, hearty meat dishes, and the well-known Cullen skink, a creamy smoked haddock soup that is loved across Scotland.
Many visitors choose The Bothy because of its comforting atmosphere and authentic Scottish flavours. It is a great place to experience classic Scottish food while exploring St Andrews.
Location: A91, St. Andrews KY16 9SF
The Steak Barn is located inside a converted barn on the outskirts of St Andrews and is well-known for serving some of the best steaks in Fife. All the meat is locally sourced and cooked over an open fire, giving it a rich smoky flavour.
The rustic setting, simple menu, and fresh ingredients make it a favourite for anyone who enjoys hearty Scottish grill food. With generous portions and bold flavours, The Steak Barn is ideal for casual dining and one of the best places to eat out in St Andrews if you love steak.
Location: Market St, St. Andrews KY16 9PB
Mitchell is a popular café and deli in the centre of St Andrews, known for its delicious brunch dishes, fresh baking, and high-quality artisan coffee. It has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect place to start your day with pancakes, full Scottish breakfasts, or homemade pastries.
Because of its central location and great food, Mitchell is a favourite spot for locals, students, and visitors who want a comfortable café experience in St Andrews.
Cobbies Inn pub showing the main bar area with beer taps, glassware, and patrons seated Location: Aberdour, Fife
Cobbies Inn is a traditional pub known for its bold, filling comfort food. It is especially famous for its Big Breakfast Stack and Steak Stack, both of which are large, flavourful plates that attract people from across Fife. The warm atmosphere and classic dishes reflect the everyday flavours that are deeply rooted in Scottish culture, making the pub feel familiar and welcoming to locals and visitors alike. The pub offers a friendly, laid-back environment with classic Scottish pub dishes, making it a great spot for casual meals with friends or family. If you enjoy hearty food, generous portions, and a welcoming pub atmosphere, Cobbies Inn is one of the best places to eat in Aberdour.
Location: Kettlebridge, Near Cupar
Kettlebridge is a loved Italian restaurant run by Florentine and Sicilian chefs who bring authentic Italian flavours to Fife. The wood-fired pizza oven produces thin, crispy pizzas topped with fresh ingredients, while the menu also includes homemade pasta, seafood dishes, and classic Italian starters.
The restaurant has a warm and rustic feel, giving diners a true taste of Italy in a small Fife village. For anyone who loves real Italian cooking, Kettlebridge is one of the best places in Fife for wood-fired pizzaand handmade pasta dishes. Location: 119 North St, St. Andrews KY16 9AD
Lupo’s offers an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of St Andrews. The restaurant prepares homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, antipasti, and rich sauces using traditional Italian methods. The food is fresh, simple, and full of flavour, making it popular with both locals and tourists.
The stylish but welcoming atmosphere makes Lupo’s ideal for family meals, date nights, or anyone craving real Italian cuisine while exploring St Andrews.
Location: Shore St, Anstruther KY10 3EA
The Waterfront sits right beside Anstruther Harbour, offering peaceful sea views and a menu focused on fresh Scottish seafood. Diners enjoy meals like monkfish, haddock, seafood chowder, and other coastal favourites.
The calm, relaxed setting makes it an excellent place to enjoy a seaside lunch or dinner. With its friendly service and fresh local produce, The Waterfront is one of the top seafood restaurants in Anstruther.
Location: East Green, Anstruther KY10 3AA
The Cellar is a fine dining restaurant located inside a charming 17th-century stone building. The intimate setting gives it a warm, historic atmosphere, making it ideal for special occasions and romantic meals.
The menu focuses on creative dishes made from Scottish produce, presented as part of a carefully designed tasting experience. The Cellar is highly respected for its expert cooking and is one of the finest dining destinations in the East Neuk of Fife.
Location: 42-44 Shore St, Anstruther KY10 3AQ
Anstruther Fish Bar is one of the most famous fish and chip shops in Scotland. It has won many awards and is known for serving fresh haddock coated in crisp batter, along with perfectly cooked hand-cut chips. Its simple, honest flavours reflect the kind of Scottish traditional foodthat people travelto the East Neuk to enjoy. Located beside the harbour, many people choose to enjoy their fish and chips outdoors by the water, making it a classic East Neuk experience. This spot is a must-visit for anyone wanting traditional Scottish fish and chips.
Location: Shore St, Anstruther KY10 3EA
The Boathouse is a cozy seafood bistro offering simple but delicious dishes made with fresh local shellfish. The menu often includes mussels, scallops, langoustines, and other seafood sourced from nearby waters.
With its warm and intimate setting, it’s a lovely place for a relaxed meal by the sea. The focus on fresh ingredients and friendly service makes The Boathouse a hidden gem for seafood lovers exploring Anstruther.
Meldrums Hotel & Restaurant Location:Meldrums Hotel, 56 Main St, Ceres, Cupar KY15 5NA
Meldrums Hotel & Restaurant is a warm, family-run inn located in the village of Ceres near Cupar. It is well-known for serving traditional Scottish cooking made with fresh local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy classic dishes such as venison, haggis, homemade scones, and comforting soups that reflect the flavours of rural Scotland. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, with a cozy feel that makes guests feel at home the moment they walk in. Because of its strong focus on Scottish heritage and simple, delicious meals, Meldrums is a favourite spot for anyone wanting an authentic taste of Scottish countryside dining. It is one of the best places to eat out in Cupar for traditional comfort food prepared with care.
The Boudingait atmosphere showing the long table area and unique patterned floor rug Location:43 Bonnygate, Cupar KY15 4BU
The Boudingait is a well-loved pub in Cupar that is known for its warm atmosphere and great Scottish pub food. The menu features hearty dishes such as steak pies, haggis-stuffed chicken, fresh seafood, burgers, and daily specials inspired by local flavours. It is the kind of place where you can relax with friends, enjoy a pint, and have a satisfying meal made with local ingredients.
The pub has a traditional Scottish charm, making it popular with both locals and visitors looking for honest, homemade dishes. With its friendly staff and cosy interior, The Boudingait is one of the best pubs in Cupar for casual dining and great Scottish flavours.
Bridgend Garden Centre Café Location:Cupar KY15 7HY
Bridgend Garden Centre Café is a peaceful countryside café just outside Cupar. It is popular for its generous portions, tasty homemade cakes, and comforting light meals. Many visitors stop here for afternoon tea, as the café is known for its fresh baking, scones, and sweet treats. They also serve daily specials that use local produce whenever possible. The atmosphere is calm and relaxing, making it an ideal stop during a day out exploring Fife. With its countryside views and friendly service, Bridgend Garden Centre Café is a lovely place for anyone looking for simple, homemade food in a quiet setting.
Jack O’Bryans is one of Dunfermline’s most exciting restaurants, known for combining Scottish ingredients with bold flavours from around the world. This modern fusion restaurant serves dishes such as spiced lamb, miso cod, harissa prawns, and creative small plates that highlight global cooking styles.
The restaurant has a stylish, contemporary feel, making it ideal for date nights, celebrations, or special meals. If you enjoy adventurous food and rich flavours, Jack O’Bryans is one of the top places to eat in Dunfermline.
Apricot Indian & Nepalese Restaurant Location:Dunfermline KY12 7AN
Apricot is widely considered one of the best Indian and Nepalese restaurants in Dunfermline. The menu includes rich and aromatic curries, freshly made tandoori dishes, and Nepalese momos, which are small steamed dumplings full of flavour.
The staff are known for their friendly service, making it a comfortable and welcoming place for both families and couples. With its authentic cooking and generous portions, Apricot is a great choice for anyone craving South Asian cuisine in Dunfermline.
A dark, moody restaurant setting with a central golden wood counter for dining Location: East Shore, St Monans
East Pier Smokehouse is a relaxed and informal seafood restaurant perched on the edge of the water in St Monans. The simple wooden building and outdoor seating give it a beach-hut feel, making it popular with people who enjoy casual coastal dining.
The menu features smoked fish, seafood platters, hot smoked salmon, chowders, and other dishes inspired by fresh local catches. With its peaceful sea views and relaxed vibe, East Pier Smokehouse is a fantastic stop for visitors exploring the East Neuk of Fife.
The Harbour Cafe & Sandwich Bar main entrance on a sunny day with a brown roof and brick accents Location: Harbour Rd, Elie
The Harbour Café is a small but highly respected fish and chip spot in Elie, separate from The Ship Inn. Known for using fresh seafood straight from the local waters, they serve crispy fish and chips, seafood rolls, and simple coastal dishes that taste best when enjoyed outdoors by the harbour.
The café is especially busy in summer as families, walkers, and beachgoers stop by for fresh seaside food. If you’re looking for classic fish and chips in Elie, The Harbour Café is an essential stop.
Location:Dunfermline KY12 7NT
Fabric is a modern European-style bistro located in the centre of Dunfermline. It offers a mix of Scottish and European dishes, including gourmet burgers, fresh seafood plates, seasonal specials, and beautifully presented desserts. The restaurant also has a popular cocktail menu, making it a lively spot in the evenings.
The atmosphere is modern, bright, and stylish, which makes Fabric a favourite for nights out, celebrations, and casual meals alike. For visitors looking for European dining with a contemporary twist, this is one of Dunfermline’s top destinations.
Fire Station Creative Café Location:Dunfermline KY12 7AN
Fire Station Creative Café sits inside a renovated former fire station, giving it a unique and artistic charm. The café serves fresh soups, sandwiches, paninis, baked goods, and great coffee. Many people visit between browsing the art studios and exhibitions inside the building.
The setting is relaxed and creative, making it a wonderful place to enjoy a quiet lunch or a coffee break. It’s especially popular with students, artists, and anyone who enjoys café culture in a creative environment.
Location:Kirkcaldy KY2 6XZ
Home Farm View is a family-friendly pub and grill offering hearty meals at affordable prices. The menu includes Sunday roasts, grilled steaks, burgers, salads, and traditional British pub dishes. The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere makes it ideal for families, groups, and casual outings.
Because of its generous portions and reliable comfort food, Home Farm View is a popular place to eat out in Kirkcaldy for people who enjoy pub dining with a warm, local feel.
Location:Kirkcaldy KY1 1NY
Novar Bar is a cosy and lively Scottish pubknown for its warm hospitality and traditional comfort food. The menu features classics such as beer-battered haddock, steak pie, haggis bonbons, and other pub favourites. Live music events often take place here, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. If you want a true Scottish pub experience in Kirkcaldy, Novar Bar offers great food, friendly service, and an enjoyable local atmosphere.
Location:Kirkcaldy KY1 1ED
Pane E Vino is a family-run Italian restaurant located in the heart of Kirkcaldy. It is known for its handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and Sicilian-style seafood dishes. The restaurant has a warm and intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for date nights, family meals, and special occasions.
The food is prepared using traditional Italian techniques, giving every dish a fresh and authentic flavour. Pane E Vino is one of the best Italian restaurants in Fife for anyone craving classic Italian cooking made with care.
Guests enjoying a lively celebration inside the spacious, high-ceiling event hall Location: Near Tentsmuir, KY16 (Rhynd Farm)
The Rhynd Café is a countryside café located on a working berry farm close to Tentsmuir Forest. It is well-known for its fresh breakfasts, homemade cakes, soups, and lunches made with local produce. The café has a rustic, farm-style interior that feels calm and inviting, making it an ideal place to relax after a walk in Tentsmuir.
The menu changes with the seasons, offering hearty meals like full Scottish breakfasts, farmhouse toasties, and berry-based desserts. It is one of the best rural cafés in Fife for simple, high-quality food.
Dean Park Hotel Restaurant Location:Kirkcaldy KY2 6HF
Dean Park Hotel Restaurant offers a welcoming hotel dining experience with a menu that blends Scottish classics with popular international dishes. The chefs use fresh local ingredients, which helps bring out the best flavours in their meals. Visitors can enjoy familiar favourites such as roasted meats, comforting soups, and seasonal plates inspired by both Scottish and global cuisine.
The dining room feels polished yet relaxed, making it suitable for family meals, business dinners, and celebrations. Because of its reliable quality and friendly service, the restaurant is a strong choice for anyone looking to eat out in Kirkcaldy and enjoy traditional Scottish food with a modern twist.
Location:Kirkcaldy KY1 1RP
The Duchess is one of Kirkcaldy’s most stylish cafés, offering a bright and relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for brunch, coffee, or a light lunch. The menu features homemade cakes, fresh salads, filled sandwiches, and popular brunch dishes made with local ingredients. The café is known for its artisan coffee and beautifully presented baked goods, which attract both locals and visitors.
With its chic décor and warm service, The Duchess is a wonderful place to unwind, meet friends, or enjoy a slow breakfast. It stands out as one of the best café-style dining spots in Kirkcaldy for those who love modern, casual food made with care.
The Dory Bistro & Gallery The Dory Bistro & Gallery is a unique coastal restaurant that blends fresh Scottish seafood with a love for local art. The menu changes daily depending on the catch brought in from nearby waters, so guests can enjoy dishes like scallops, langoustines, smoked fish, and other seafood specialities at their freshest.
The dining room is filled with artwork created by local artists, giving the space a creative, coastal feel. This combination of art and fine seafood makes The Dory one of Pittenweem’s most distinctive dining experiences and a must-visit for food lovers exploring the East Neuk of Fife.
Location:Pittenweem
The Larachmhor Tavern is a traditional fisherman’s pub known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere. Popular dishes include classic fish and chips, steak pie, and generous seafood platters made with local ingredients. After a walk along the Fife Coastal Path, many visitors stop here to enjoy comforting pub food and a warm welcome.
The tavern has a cosy, seaside feel that makes it perfect for relaxed dining. It is one of the best places in Pittenweem to experience authentic Scottish pub food and a true local atmosphere.
Location:Anstruther, Fife
GH Barnett’s Bakery is a long-standing bakery in Anstruther known for its award-winning pies, soft morning rolls, bridies, and classic Scottish cakes. The bakery has been part of the community for over a century, making it a historic stop for anyone who loves traditional Scottish baking.
Many travellers pick up a quick snack here before exploring the East Neuk’s villages, thanks to the affordable prices and freshly baked goods. From savoury pastries to fruit cakes, GH Barnett’s offers some of the best traditional baked treats in Fife.
Craig Millar @ 16 West End Location:St Monans KY10 2BX
Craig Millar @ 16 West End is one of the finest coastal restaurants in Scotland, offering beautiful sea views and an elegant seafood-focused tasting menu. The restaurant overlooks the harbour in St Monans, giving diners a peaceful setting while they enjoy expertly crafted dishes made from fresh local produce.
The focus is on high-quality Scottish seafood, including hand-dived scallops, halibut, lobster, and seasonal ingredients that change throughout the year. With its refined service and stunning scenery, Craig Millar @ 16 West End is a top choice for fine dining in the East Neuk of Fife.
Location:Elie KY9 1DT
The Ship Inn is a well-known beachfront pub in Elie, loved for its relaxed coastal vibe and great food. The menu features fresh seafood, gourmet burgers, and traditional Scottish dishes, all served with beautiful views of Elie Beach.
In summer, the pub becomes even more lively as beach cricket matches are played right outside. With its friendly staff, seaside atmosphere, and high-quality pub food, The Ship Inn is a favourite for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy casual dining by the water in Fife.
Location:Kilconquhar KY9 1LF
The Kinneuchar Inn is a historic 17th-century inn that focuses on farm-to-table dining. Most ingredients are sourced directly from Fife’s local farms, including dry-aged beef, venison, and seasonal vegetables. This strong connection to local produce gives each dish a fresh and authentic flavour.
The inn has a rustic and historic feel, creating a warm, countryside dining experience. Because of its thoughtful cooking and commitment to regional ingredients, The Kinneuchar Inn is considered one of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Fife.
Dining area of Dhoom Restaurant featuring metal tables, chairs, and large, decorative cage-style chandeliers Location: Dunfermline, KY12
Dhoom is one of Dunfermline’s most unique restaurants, offering a colourful Indian dining experience inspired by Mumbai’s street food scene. The highlight is the 10-course Mumbai Taster Menu, which takes guests on a journey through different regional flavours, textures, and spices.
Dhoom is known for its bright décor, fun atmosphere, and creative approach to Indian cuisine. The dishes are rich, freshly prepared, and full of bold Indian flavours, making it a must-try for fans of curry, tandoori, and South Asian food. If you enjoy adventurous dining, Dhoom is one of the best Indian restaurants in Fife.
Location:Aberdour KY3 0XB
Sands Restaurant offers a modern coastal dining experience with beautiful views over the Firth of Forth. The menu includes fresh Scottish seafood, seasonal specials, and classic Scottish dishes made with high-quality ingredients. The bright, modern décor and seaside setting make it a peaceful place for lunch or dinner.
Many visitors choose Sands Restaurant for its combination of great flavours and scenic views, making it one of the top places to eat in Aberdour and along Fife’s southern coast.
Location:Lower Largo KY8 6BT
The Crusoe is a charming waterfront restaurant named after the famous literary figure Robinson Crusoe, who is said to have connections to Lower Largo. The restaurant offers a mix of modern Scottish dishes, including fresh seafood, wild game, hearty soups, and their popular Cullen skink.
With its harbour views, warm atmosphere, and strong focus on Scottish ingredients, The Crusoe is a wonderful place for relaxed coastal dining. It is especially popular with visitors exploring the East Neuk who want to enjoy great food in a scenic waterfront setting.
Carlucci Restaurant exterior at night, showing the illuminated sign and large front windows Location: Dunfermline Town Centre
Carlucci is the oldest Italian restaurant in Dunfermline, known for its long history and loyal local customers. The menu includes homemade pasta, stone-baked pizza, Italian seafood dishes, and traditional recipes passed down through generations. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and classic flavours make it feel like a true family-run trattoria.
Many people choose Carlucci for its comforting Italian dishes, friendly service, and consistent quality. It remains one of the top Italian restaurants in Dunfermline and a great place to enjoy authentic Italian cooking in a relaxed setting.
Ancestral home of Scottish monarchs, world-famous for its golf and some of Scotland's best scenic attractions, the Kingdom of Fife has a distinct identity.
With fresh fish and shellfish landed daily in the Kingdom's harbours and local farms producing top-quality fruit, vegetables, meats, poultry, eggs and cheese, Fife's a foodie's delight.
Restaurants with the best sea views include The Seafood Ristorante in St Andrews, Craig Millar @ 16 West End in St Monans, Sands Restaurant in Aberdour, East Pier Smokehouse, and The Ship Inn in Elie. These spots are perfect for coastal dining.
Family-friendly places include Home Farm View in Kirkcaldy, Mitchell in St Andrews, The Rhynd Café near Tentsmuir, The Ship Inn in Elie, and Cobbies Inn in Aberdour. These restaurants offer relaxed dining, simple menus, and welcoming service.
The Cottage Kitchen in St Andrews, Mitchell in Glenrothes, and The Boudingait in Cupar serve excellent vegetarian options. Fife is one of Scotland’s most exciting places for food, offering something for every taste. From fine dining and fresh coastal seafood to traditional Scottish dishes and relaxed cafés, each town has its own special flavours to enjoy.
With its local ingredients, warm hospitality, and beautiful coastal views, dining in this region is truly unforgettable. No matter what you’re craving, you will always find a great place to eat out in Fife. Happy dining!