Delicious foods to try in Fife

Scottish food and drink in Fife

Scotland’s natural larder is envied the world over, but here in Fife we are truly spoiled. Delicious foods from sea, land and air can be found in our many Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as local farmers’ markets and farm shops. So, here are some Scottish food items you should try on your next visit to Elderburn Lodges in Fife…

Fresh seafood

With a coastline of 117 miles and a strong fishing heritage, it’s no wonder the Kingdom of Fife produces an abundance of quality seafood. If you find yourself in one of the East Neuk’s quaint wee fishing villages, you can take your pick from the boats hauling in a daily catch of prawns, crab and lobster. There really are little few other locations in Scotland other than beautiful Fife to get this fresh, quality seafood. Also, don’t miss out on Anstruther fish and chips, widely regarded as some of the best in Scotland.

Organic wild scottish red fish salmon on ice on market

Fife berries

And Fife’s fertile soil also yields some wonderful crops. At Cairnie Fruit Farm near Cupar, you can pick your own strawberries, raspberries, black and redcurrants, gooseberries, tayberries, brambles and cherries. That’s a lot of berries. And the potential for a lot of jams! This not only has the perfect taste of fresh, wholesome fruit, but takes the family on a fun day out.

Close-up of hands gently picking ripe raspberries

Farmhouse cheese

Fife is home to the renowned St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese, an artisan cheese made using traditional methods. Produced on a small family-run dairy farm, this rich cheese is crafted from unpasteurised milk, giving it a deep, complex flavour. Whether you prefer the crumbly Anster or the creamy cheddar, you can enjoy this local delicacy with oatcakes or fresh bread.

Cheesemonger checking cheeses in the cellar

Scottish oatcakes

Crisp Scottish oatcakes are made from locally sourced oats and have a distinctive, slightly nutty flavour. They make an excellent accompaniment to St Andrews Farmhouse Cheese, smoked salmon, or even a simple spread of butter and jam. Available in local bakeries, farm shops and markets around the town, they are a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage.

Scottish oatcakes with cheese and chutney

Scotch pies

A staple of Scottish cuisine, Scotch pies are a must-try when visiting Fife. These are small, round meat pies, traditionally filled with spiced minced mutton or beef and encased in a firm, golden pastry shell. Bakeries across Fife, such as Fisher & Donaldson in St Andrews and local butchers, produce some of the best versions of this classic snack. Often enjoyed hot or as part of a picnic, these savoury pies are a satisfying and flavorful taste of Scotland.

Two round Scotch Pies just out of the oven

Bacon and meats

Puddledub is a family-run farm, based in Auchtertool, renowned for its high-quality, free-range pork products, particularly its award-winning bacon. Puddledub takes pride in traditional farming methods and ethical animal welfare, resulting in exceptional flavours. Their streaky bacon, sausages and black pudding are favourites in local butchers and farm shops, perfect for a full Scottish breakfast or a hearty sandwich. Many restaurants and cafés across Fife incorporate Puddledub pork into their menus, making it easy to sample this delicious local produce.

Hot friied bacon in a pan

Chillilicious chillis

Adding a spicy twist to Fife’s food scene, Chillilicious is Scotland’s original chilli farm, located near Ceres. This innovative farm grows a variety of chillies, from mild to fiery, and creates a range of unique chilli-based products, including chutneys, jams and even chocolate. Their artisan hot sauces and relishes are perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.

Board with dry hot chili peppers

Something special!

To get a true flavour of Fife, visit the farmers’ markets that take place every Saturday on rotation in Kirkcaldy, St Andrews, Dunfermline and Cupar.

So with all this delicious, organic and natural food on the doorstep, a Scottish getaway at Elderburn Lodges makes a perfect retreat filled with treats!