The Criterion — Restaurant in Great Britain

25/08/2025. @ 1615hrs I decided to have a wee treat dinner in honour of my late father who passed 3 years ago this week and his ashes are scattered in St Andrews. I have been a regular customer of this wee gem for the past several years and haven’t had a fault as yet ( exception of it being over busy and the food sometimes not as good as usual). This time as I waited at the bar to be served the young bartender lady turned around and glared at me without speaking so I decided to politely began to request my order, Before I got a full sentence out she cut me off and said where you sitting? As I explained I was outside at the back in the middle( didn’t take note of the number of table) she cut me off again as aggressively blurted out - I need a table number , you need to tell me what number you are at ! .. I bit my lip and calmly responded the directional area to where I was , again cut me off you’ll need to ask another member of staff to get it first ! And turned away to do something else …the place wasn’t busy and there were plenty of staff to help with the other work , luckily a staff member had stood beside me and heard the rudeness seen my stunned face and jumped in with the table number (17) btw .. and said it to the rude bartender.. she then decided to answer in a sarcastic manner “ so not the middle then…” by this time I’d had enough, told the well mannered staff member “it’s ok ,forget my order as I’m not putting up with rudeness” and walked out, not acceptable especially when I would be contributing to her wages. I work in a prison environment and I get spoken to with more manners and respect than I did today. Total disappointment as I will no longer frequent this pub again and neither will my friends and family. I hope the management takes a look as this as I feel you need to vet and train staff so they all have the standard of the helpful young lady who was embarrassed by the incapable customer service skills shown by the female bartender on shift at this date and time. Kindest Regards An...

Nestled in the heart of the charming and historic town of St Andrews, The Criterion is an absolute must-visit for those who appreciate fantastic food, top-tier drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This cozy yet vibrant spot seamlessly blends tradition with personality, making every visit a memorable one.

From the moment we stepped inside, we were met with exceptional hospitality, and the highlight of our experience was undoubtedly Frazier, the bartender. Not only was he incredibly friendly and helpful, but his hilarious banter made us feel right at home. His passion for the menu was evident, especially when he thoroughly explained the Chicken and Chorizo Cri-Pie—breaking down every layer of flavor. And let me tell you, it was absolutely worth the hype! The perfect blend of smoky chorizo and tender chicken wrapped in a golden, flaky crust made for the ultimate comfort dish.

Beyond the food, The Criterion boasts an expansive gin and whisky collection, but what truly sets them apart is their Breakeven Bottle concept. This brilliant idea allows guests to try an exclusive and unique bottle of whisky at cost—no markup, just the pure experience of enjoying a rare dram without the hefty price tag. I had the pleasure of trying the Loch Lomond 25 Year, and it was nothing short of exceptional. Smooth yet full of character, with deep, rich notes from the barrel it was aged in—an absolute treat for any whisky lover.

Between the incredible drinks, delicious food, and unforgettable service, The Criterion isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur, a foodie, or simply someone who enjoys great company, this place is a true St Andrews gem. Do yourself a favor and stop by—you...

The Criterion is a restaurant located in St Andrews, Scotland that offers a high-quality dining experience. The menu is diverse and includes a variety of dishes with different flavors, including local specialties and international cuisine, to cater to the needs of different customers. Whether it is the main course, side dishes, desserts, or drinks, the restaurant's offerings provide customers with a wonderful taste experience. Additionally, the restaurant sources its ingredients from reliable suppliers, ensuring the quality and freshness of the food.

In addition to the excellent food, the restaurant's servers are also very friendly and professional. They are happy to answer customers' questions, provide assistance and recommendations, and ensure that customers feel comfortable and satisfied during their meal. This warm and thoughtful service makes customers feel welcome and cared for.

Finally, The Criterion's prices are also very reasonable, offering good value for money, making it a great choice for dining in the St Andrews area. In summary, if you are looking for a delicious restaurant with excellent service, The Criterion is a highly recommended...