Drive into Auchtermuchty, turn left up the High Street, and brace yourself—you’re about to be transported back in time to a proper old Scottish toon. It’s like stepping straight into a history book, where streets and wynds meet character and charm. You’ll stumble upon a quaint town square, picture-perfect with its towering spire, timeless clock, medieval peel tower (now part of the library) and a Georgian church with a unique double bell. And let me tell you, if you’re looking for a slice of quintessential Scotland, Auchtermuchty delivers it by the bucketful, with its roots tracing back over 2000 years. Authenticity, charm, pride and history - this wee town has it all!

Right in the heart of the toon centre, you’ll come across the charming Boars Head—a wee gem that’s bursting with character. Back in the day, it was your classic old man’s pub, minus the sawdust scattering the floors. But oh, how times have changed! It’s now a cracking spot that’s been given a fresh new lease on life—a brilliant combo of pub, restaurant, and boutique hotel. Whether you’re popping in for a dram, a bite to eat, or a cosy overnight stay, it’s got something for everyone!

At the heart of this hidden gem are David Nolan and Justina Jonikaite, a dynamic duo who’ve poured their passion into every nook and cranny of the property. Proud pawrents to two adorable French bulldogs, Truffle and Juniper, (yes The Boar’s Head is dog friendly) they’ve truly transformed this space into something extraordinary. From breathing new life into the bar and restaurant, to crafting four luxurious en-suite rooms, their hands-on approach knows no bounds. Currently, they’re hard at work expanding the kitchen and building a function suite, while also hunting for land to grow their own sustainable, fresh produce. It’s all part of their ethos of farm-to-table dining, a philosophy they stand by and has earned them accolades like the SLTN Gastropub 2024 award and the prestigious AA Rosette for Culinary Excellence 2025. This pair is a powerhouse of creativity and ambition!

Auchtermuchty might be steeped in history, but it’s never really been on the tourist radar—until now. Enter the Boars Head, where elevated dining meets local produce, served up with none of the fuss of fine dining. Fancy a pamper? This wee spot delivers with stunning rooms, the cosiest of beds, and every amenity you’d want to make your stay nothing short of superb. From the moment you step through the door, you’re welcomed with warmth and shown to your room, leaving plenty of time to unwind. Take a stroll through the scenic streets or pop over to Lindores Abbey Distillery, just 10 minutes away, before you settle in for evening drinks at the bar. Then indulge yourself—whisky, wine, and top-notch food—safe in the knowledge that you’re only a few steps away from sinking into crisp white linens and drifting off to dreamland. Bliss!

Each room, while sharing a similar aesthetic, offers its own unique decor and charm. With two rooms upstairs and two downstairs, every space is thoughtfully equipped with modern conveniences—coffee makers, bedside USB ports and plugs, and large-screen TVs (though you might find yourself too relaxed to need them!). Bathrooms feature rainfall showers, touch-light mirrors, and underfloor heating for added comfort. The beds are sumptuous king-size havens, dressed with 100% goose-down pillows and duvets, ensuring a restful night. To top it all off, guests are treated to complimentary Lindores Abbey whisky and delightful homemade treats for that perfect finishing touch.

At the helm of the kitchen at the Boars Head is none other than Head Chef Gordon Reekie, leading a team that’s brimming with talent and passion. He’s joined by Justina herself, who rolls up her sleeves and gets stuck in, and Hazel Cuthbert, whose desserts are nothing short of phenomenal—some of the best I’ve had in ages! This dream team knows exactly how to work magic with local produce, showcasing the very best of Fife’s culinary bounty. With suppliers like Simpsons Game, East Neuk Kilnhouse, Luvians Ice Cream, Daftmill Whisky, and Bonaly Farm Dairy, they’ve got access to the cream of the crop. Fife really is a foodie’s paradise, and the Boars Head kitchen team makes the most of it with flair and finesse.

The Lobster with fregola (£14) was an absolute showstopper, artfully arranged in a crescent moon shape that was almost too stunning to touch. The velvety bisque worked its magic, drawing out the vibrant, fresh seafood flavours in every bite. Meanwhile, the Pigeon paired with celeriac and apples (£12) was cooked to sheer perfection—tender, succulent, and bursting with taste. A feast for the eyes and the palate!

Both main dishes were simply exceptional. The Rack of Hogget (£30) was a masterpiece, with every element on the plate working in perfect harmony to let the hogget shine as the true star. The Venison, paired with barley and sherry-soaked raisins (£28), was nothing short of sensational. Tender, juicy, and a brilliant pink at the centre, it was the kind of dish that etches itself into your memory—a true culinary triumph you'll be reminiscing about for years to come.

Dessert was a triumph crafted by Hazel herself—Chocolate and Guinness cake paired with Guinness ice cream (£9.50), and Coffee and Amaretto parfait (£9.50). Both desserts were delightfully light, beautifully balanced, and just the right level of sweetness. A perfect finale to an utterly wonderful dinner!

Dinner drinks were a celebration of Scotland’s finest—whisky (Daftmill, naturally), Scottish gins, and voluptuous red wine that set the tone for a blissful night’s sleep. Breakfast, pre-ordered the night before, offers a glorious spread to suit every craving—from bacon butties and a hearty full Scottish to Eggs Hollandaise. We chose the Porridge, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of extraordinary. A crunchy layer of toasted oats atop soft, creamy oats, all swirled together and crowned with jam—it was pure, glorious decadence. The Pancakes with local bacon hit the spot beautifully, while two perfectly Poached eggs perched on sourdough piled high with hot smoked trout stole the show. Trust me, after indulging in this overnight gastronomic extravaganza, you’ll need another holiday just to recover from all the incredible food!

If you're looking for a food-lover's retreat where every detail is sprinkled with charm and passion, the Boars Head in Auchtermuchty is where you need to be. This isn’t just a stay; it’s an experience—a culinary journey that celebrates local produce, top-notch hospitality, and an undeniable love for all things Scottish. From the moment you arrive to the moment you (reluctantly) depart, David, Justina, and their incredible team ensure every aspect of your visit is flawless. With divine dishes, cosy rooms, and a warm, welcoming vibe, the Boars Head isn’t just a place to eat and sleep; it’s a destination to savour and remember. It’s safe to say I’ll be dreaming about this gastronomic getaway for a long time to come!

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT THE BOARS HEAD, AUCHTERMUCHTY

They are dog friendly in the bar, restaurant and rooms
None of the rooms have disabled access
The pub and restaurant are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Rooms cost from £150 and include breakfast
Check-in is from 3pm and check-out from 11am
Advisable to book the restaurant for lunch or dinner as it is busy

The Boar’s Head, 23 High Street, Auchtermuchty, Fife, KY147AP www.theboarsheadfife.co.uk

FOOD & STAY : A Gastronomy Getaway at the Boars Head in Auchtermuchty, Fife