The 5 Best Elie Restaurants
Are you planning a trip to the East Neuk and looking for the best lunch or dinner spot? My guide to the best Elie restaurants includes a waterfront seafood bistro, luxe deli, and cosy cafe.
Elie is a charming seaside town, nestled along coast of Fife. Most famous for its pristine beaches, this tiny town is also home to a handful of incredible places to eat. In fact, wonderful Elie restaurants are well worth a trip on their own.
From an upscale waterfront bistro to family friendly lunch stops, there are wonderful foodie finds to be explored. Plus, local ingredients reign supreme, and you’ll find the freshest Fife produce at many Elie restaurants.
So, whether you’re just passing through the East Neuk or are planning a full weekend in Elie, the local foodie scene is well worth exploring. Here’s my take on the best Elie restaurants, cafes, delis, and takeaways.
1. The Ship Inn
Located right on the waterfront, the Ship Inn serves a varied and delicious menu, with a big focus on seafood. This is the main Elie restaurant, and absolutely one my favourite places to eat in all of Fife.
Whilst fish is definitely the star, the menu also features a delicious range of dishes like halloumi with pickled radish, goats cheese salad with candied walnuts, classic macaroni cheese, and grass fed bone marrow with crispy shallots.
The setting is relaxed, with a lively bar downstairs (there’s an extensive wine menu) and upscale restaurant above. Whilst in summer, the outdoor terrace is the best spot in town, with beautiful sea views and delicious BBQs. Undoubtedly the best restaurant in Elie, the Ship Inn is the perfect spot to indulge in a maritime feast. Highly recommend.
Book your table well in advance here.
2. Elie Deli
Situated directly on Elie high street, the Elie Deli serves an array of fresh food and savoury options. With an artisan approach and commitment to quality produce, it is a must for anyone seeking a culinary experience in Elie.
A fantastic option for a takeaway lunch or picnic on the beach, their deli counter includes a range of delicious quiches, cheeses, olives, cold cuts, and savoury produce. Plus there’s delicious pastries, cakes, coffee, and a range of filled baguettes & sandwiches to choose from.
The perfect option for those walking the Fife Coastal Path. Alternatively, the Elie Deli also doubles as a local store, allowing you to pick fresh food to cook at home.
Open daily from 8am till 4pm.
Find it here.
3. Pavilion Café
The Pavilion is a casual and laid-back café, tucked away in the grounds of the Elie golf club. A traditional, no-frills café, this cosy Elie cafe is a good spot for lunch, or an afternoon treat. The food is simple yet tasty, and the menu features everything from scones to pizzas to seafood.
Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (though I’d recommend as a daytime eatery).
Find it here.
4. Barnett’s Bakery
A Fife institution, you’ll find a Barnett’s Bakery in most of Fife’s coastal villages.
Though most famous for its artisan breads, other popular items include freshly baked cakes, sausage rolls, and traditional pies. And if you’re not into bakery foods, the oatcakes are delicious (pair with cheese from Elie Deli).
Everything is freshly baked, so if you’re looking for a takeaway option in Elie, Barnett’s is a good choice.
Find it here.
5. Mirador Café
Located just outside of Elie, The Mirador Café is great for walkers on the Fife Coastal Path or those attempting the Elie Chain Walk.
Despite being tucked away in a holiday park, the Mirador welcomes non-residents and is a friendly, casual eatery serving a simple menu of sandwiches, paninis, and breakfast rolls.
Find it here.
