Thousands of golf fans from around the world have arrived in Ayrshire for the 152nd Open at Royal Troon.
And with some of the very best produce that Scotland has to offer on its doorstep, visitors will be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing where to dine after an afternoon spectating on the green.
Thankfully, award-winning hospitality group Buzzworks has compiled a list of the best places to eat and drink across the region during the event – with everything from outstanding venison dishes to the “official cocktail” of the tournament, there is something for everyone.
Jordanne Swan, Senior Operations Manager at Buzzworks, said: “We are so excited to welcome visitors from home and abroad to sample some of the freshest local ingredients that Ayrshire has to offer.
“We’ve introduced some special dishes to our menus, put our staff through extensive training and even extended our opening hours at some of our venues to accommodate the huge influx of visitors we are expected to welcome over the course of the event.
“This is a hugely exciting time for not just Troon, but the whole of Ayrshire, and we’re so excited to play our part in it!”
The best for family friendly, all-day dining
Lido Troon, West Portland Street, Troon
Located in the heart of Troon just a 10-minute walk from the train station, this laid-back Mediterranean eatery is the perfect spot to grab a bite for breakfast or enjoy some late-night dining.
The menu features classic favourites including Troon-landed langoustines, grilled lobster, 28-day aged Scotch ribeye steak and king scallop spaghetti, as well as a huge selection of Nepalese inspired pizzas that Lido is renowned for.
It also boasts an extensive drinks selection, including wine, whisky and cocktails, including summer classics like Aperol and Limoncello Spritz.
What’s more, Lido has extended its opening hours to accommodate the influx of visitors in the town and will be serving food from 7am until 11pm daily.
Pre-booking is recommended - visit: www.lido-troon.co.uk.
The best for good pints and a post-game bite
The Fox, West Portland Street, Troon
Situated just next door to Lido Troon and named after the tricky twelfth hole at Royal Troon Golf Course, The Fox is ready to welcome guests from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am until 11am.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy drinks and relaxed dining and to catch up on all the days sports, with big screens and an extended drinks list including Loch Lomond whisky and Tank Tennents for just £3.95.
There’s also a brand new food menu, with bagels, tempura and burgers, plus some of The Fox’s best loved dishes starting from just £8.50.
And with an extended bar license at the weekend, it’s the perfect place to kick back after the buzz of the Links.
Visit: www.thefox-troon.co.uk
The best for outstanding dishes and stunning sea views
Scotts Troon, Troon Yacht Haven, Harbour Road, Troon
Boasting incredible views over Troon Yacht Haven, the seriously stylish Scotts Troon offers a premium dining experience with an extensive drinks list to match.
Open daily from 9am during the event, the culinary team lead by chef Craig Gordon features a bespoke specials menu highlighting seasonal produce, including a luxury seafood platter, freshly landed lobster, 16oz chateaubriand and its signature surf & turf.
What’s more, Scotts Troon will be serving up the exclusive ‘White Horse’ cocktail – the official Open Feature Cocktail and winner of the 2024 Ben Lomond Cocktail competition. Created by Robbie Quinn of Vic’s & the Vine, it features Ben Lomond Whisky, cucumber and mint oleo, fresh lime, absinthe and seaweed.
Walk ins are welcome but booking is recommended. Visit: www.scotts-troon.co.uk
The best to eat and drink if you’re visiting Prestwick
Vic’s & The Vine, Main Street, Prestwick
Lido Prestwick, Main Street, Prestwick
The fun doesn’t stop in Troon, as just a 20-minute drive away is the iconic Vic's & The Vine. Open daily from 9am, The Vine is serving up food until 10:30pm Monday to Wednesday and until 11pm Thursday to Sunday, with late nights in Vic’s on Fridays and Saturdays.
Enjoy live entertainment and delicious specials like the Ultimate Vic’s & The Vine Steak & Lobster Surf & Turf, featuring a 10oz New York strip and half grilled lobster, as well as Troon-landed langoustines and signature seafood sharers.
The menu at Vic's includes classics, loaded fries, tacos, pizzas, and burgers. The drink selection features extended options, including Loch Lomond whisky and Tank Tennents, too.
Visit: www.vicsandthevine.co.uk
Visitors also have the chance to experience the family-friendly, relaxed atmosphere at Lido in Prestwick too. The menu features simple Mediterranean dishes and authentic pizzas served up fresh from the wood-burning stove, as well as a diverse bar list featuring everything from cooling Spritzes to refreshing pints.
Visit: www.lido-prestwick.co.uk
The best for dining, live music and cocktails in Ayr
The Tree House and T-Bar, Sandgate, Ayr
If you’re swinging by the historic town of Ayr, be sure to stop in at The Tree House for a bite to eat before stopping into T-Bar for some late-night cocktails, sport and live music.
With bold flavours from breakfast to dinner and award-winning cocktails and craft beer, it’s a must visit for anyone travelling to The Open.
Visit: www.thetreehouse-ayr.co.uk to explore the wide range of food, drinks and events on offer.
