9 fab food spots along the Fife Coastal Path

Whether you’re walking a small section or spending your holiday hiking end to end, there are plenty of food spots along the Fife Coastal Path to fuel you.

Going from Kincardine in the south to Newburgh in the north – all along the Fife coast – the 115-mile path is popular among tourists and locals alike.

If the start of summer is anything to go by, we’ll have some great weather for walking over the next months, too.

If you need a bit of motivation to get out, though, there are plenty of stops with tasty treats, food and drinks along the way.

So, pick your favourites, plot them into your map and lace up your boots.

Salt and Pine, Tentsmuir Forest

You don’t want to miss the milkshakes, crepes and pizzas at Salt and Pine, but be prepared to queue.

The incredibly popular shack has lots to offer, both on the sweet and savoury front. If you’re hungry there are bagels and crepes, but if you’re looking for dessert there’s ice cream, milkshakes and sweet crepes.

Salt and Pine is open daily, from 10am to 5pm.

Address: Kinshaldy beach car park, KY16 0DR

A loaded bagel from Salt and Pine along the Fife Coastal Path. — Tentsmuir Forest is the perfect place to stop for a bagel. Image: Salt and Pine.

The Seafood Ristorante, St Andrews

Perched on the edge of a cliff in St Andrews, this contemporary restaurant offers breath-taking sea views alongside a menu blending Scottish seafood with Italian influences.

Freshly caught fish and shellfish take centre stage, with dishes prepared using innovative cooking techniques to highlight the natural flavours of the ingredients.

Each dish is beautifully presented for a refined and memorable experience.

Address: Bruce Embankment, St Andrews KY16 9AB

an aerial shot of The Seafood Ristorante, St Andrews, with the water in the background — The Seafood Ristorante, St Andrews. Image: Steve Brown / DC Thomson.

The Cheesy Toast Shack, St Andrews

It’s fair to say that mac and cheese toasties from this St Andrews joint has reached legendary status.

Beloved by locals, students and tourists alike – and, unfortunately, also the seagulls – The Cheesy Toast Shack is a must-visit for anyone hiking the Fife coastal path.

If the thought of a giant, cheesy toasty isn’t convincing you, they’ve also got fries, ice cream and milkshakes on offer.

Address: Woodburn Place, St Andrews KY16 8LA

A loaded mac and cheese sandwich from The Cheesy Toast Shack. — The legendary mac and cheese sandwich. Image: The Cheesy Toast Shack.

The Stables Café, Kingsbarns

Nestled in the picturesque Cambo Estate near Kingsbarns, this charming café focuses on vegetarian and vegan dishes made with fresh produce from the estate’s gardens.

It’s a tranquil spot with homemade soups, hearty salads, and artisan cakes, perfect for a peaceful break along the coastal path.

Open from 10am daily, they welcome dogs and have indoor and outdoor seating.

Address: Cambo Country House, Kingsbarns KY16 8QD

booths at The Stables Café, Cambo Estate. — The Stables Café, Cambo Estate. Image: Kim Cessford / DC Thomson.

The Shoregate, Crail

Located in the charming fishing village of Crail, The Shoregate is a vibrant restaurant and hotel.

They offer seasonal and themed menus with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Its bold décor and creative dishes make it a stylish yet relaxed spot to enjoy coastal dining with a modern twist.

They also offer lovely rooms to stay over and have regular music nights in their bar.

Address: 2 Shoregate, Crail KY10 3ST

Lamb rump, anchovy gnocchi and sweetheart cabbage at The Shoregate in Crail. Image: Steve Brown / DC Thomson.

The Dreel Tavern, Anstruther

This Anstruther gem blends history with hearty food, offering locally inspired dishes in a cosy setting.

The seasonal menu features seafood, other local produce and local ales. They cater to various dietary requirements, and they allow dogs.

With a roaring fireplace and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s an excellent stop for walkers seeking a warm meal and a pint.

Address: 16 High St W, Anstruther, KY10 3DL

the exterior of The Dreel Tavern, Anstruther, which sits on the Fife Coastal Path — The Dreel Tavern, Anstruther.

The Ship Inn, Elie

Located in Elie, this historic seaside pub serves classic Scottish fare done really well with stunning views of the beach.

Known for its summer beach cricket matches, it offers fresh seafood, hearty pub classics, and a selection of fine ales, making it a must-visit for those exploring Fife’s coastal path.

There is both indoor and outdoor seating and rooms if you need to stay over. They are also dog friendly.

Address: The Toft, Elie KY9 1DT

the outside of The Ship Inn at Elie, a fine spot to enjoy some food while trekking the Fife Coastal Path. — The Ship Inn at Elie is a fine spot to enjoy some food while trekking the Fife Coastal Path.

The Crusoe, Lower Largo

After a long day’s hike, this historic hotel is the perfect spot for a hearty dinner.

Showcasing the best of Scottish produce, The Crusoe has a menu full of freshly caught local fish and vegetables grown in the East Neuk.

The restaurant is open Monday-Sunday from 12-9pm.

Address: 2 Main Street, Lower Largo KY8 6BT

A pot of mussels with a side of garlic bread in The Crusoe. — Shetland mussels in a tomato and chorizo sauce. Image: Steve Brown/DC Thomson.

The Wee Restaurant, North Queensferry

Situated in North Queensferry, this small yet acclaimed restaurant offers modern Scottish cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Under the Forth Bridge, it’s an intimate setting ideal for seafood lovers, with locally sourced dishes and an impressive wine list to complement the delicious food.

Address: 17 Main St, North Queensferry, KY11 1JG