Best Golf-Course Dining in Scotland: Where Fairways End & Great Meals Begin
Scotland is not just the home of golf — it’s also a destination for food lovers. From St Andrews to the Highlands, discover where to enjoy world-class dining after an unforgettable round of golf.
What Makes Golf-Course Dining Truly Memorable
- Views & setting: panoramic fairways, sea views, and historic clubhouses.
- Local & seasonal sourcing: Scottish seafood, game, and farm-fresh produce.
- Ambience & heritage: refined yet welcoming interiors with classic charm.
- Menu variety: fine dining, sharing plates, and light meals for any appetite.
- Open to all: many of these restaurants welcome non-golfers too.
MARA, Links House, Royal Dornoch
MARA at Links House brings the elegance of fine dining to Royal Dornoch. Its menu celebrates Scotland’s natural larder — seafood, game, and vegetables sourced from within 50 miles — served with minimal interference and maximum respect for flavour.
Why Golfers Love It
- Sustainability: Local produce, foraged herbs, and zero-waste philosophy.
- Signature dishes: Orkney scallops, Ardgay roe deer, Portmahomack lobster.
- Ambience: understated elegance with views of Dornoch’s dunes and sea.
- Service: relaxed yet refined — perfect after a round at Royal Dornoch.
Tip: Book early for the tasting menu, and arrive in time for a pre-dinner walk along Dornoch Beach.
Other Noteworthy Golf-Dining Destinations in Scotland
Road Hole Restaurant & Swilcan Loft — St Andrews
Located within the Old Course Hotel, both restaurants offer iconic views of the Old Course and St Andrews Bay. Expect elegant fine dining and relaxed all-day menus.
The Rookery — Carnoustie Golf Links
Overlooking the legendary Carnoustie course, The Rookery is known for its modern Scottish dishes and spectacular seaside setting.
The Dormy — Gleneagles
A stylish clubhouse restaurant serving grilled classics, pizzas, and tandoor dishes. Ideal for golfers who prefer a casual but high-quality meal after their round.
Chez Roux — Greywalls, Muirfield
Classic French cooking with East Lothian charm — located beside Muirfield, it’s perfect for a post-round celebration.
Newport Restaurant — Scotscraig Golf Club
Run by MasterChef winner Jamie Scott, this restaurant elevates traditional Scottish dining within a relaxed clubhouse setting.
The Meikleour Arms — Blairgowrie
A cosy, elegant gastropub serving locally sourced Scottish fare — perfect after a round at Blairgowrie’s renowned courses.
Plan Your Ultimate Golf & Dining Experience
- Book ahead: Popular golf restaurants fill up quickly, especially weekends.
- Time your meal: Lunch between rounds or dinner as the sun sets on the fairways.
- Dress codes: Some clubhouses maintain traditional etiquette — check before arrival.
- Ask for local specials: Venison, salmon, scallops, and game vary seasonally.
Golf, Whisky & Culinary Luxury with Swag Tours
Combine Scotland’s world-class golf courses with unforgettable dining experiences. Swag Tours curates bespoke luxury golf and whisky itineraries — from the Home of Golf at St Andrews to hidden Highland gems like Dornoch. Every detail is tailored for those who appreciate great golf, fine food, and Scotland’s timeless hospitality.
