Aperol spritzes transcend time, space, and any excuse not to drink. While some argue they’re strictly for Euro-summer vibes, many St Andrews students defy these stereotypes, sipping on their Aperols even in Fife’s cold and windy winter months. Contrary to what you might believe, you can find an Aperol almost anywhere in this town— day or night. After consulting the St Andrews Aperol Spritz Society (ASS), I present to you the ultimate ranking.
Instead of ranking every single establishment (and trust me, in my fourth year, I’ve sampled them all), I’ve condensed it to the top 3 and bottom 3.
Consider this your definitive guide on where to flock, and where to avoid— because in St Andrews, it is always socially acceptable to spend your afternoon in the pub (especially now that the sun sets at 3pm.)
TOP 3 SPRITZES:
The Criterion
Price: £8.50
The Criterion reigns supreme. You could go to Italy and not find a better Aperol spritz—I’ve tried. Ann Kathryn Chaney, co-founder of ASS, calls “Queen Hazel, the owner” and bartenders “Fraser, Ed, and Ethan” the heroes behind this Aperol masterpiece. She says that “when we enter, they know it’s Aperol time.”
The drink is more than just a spritz; it is an experience. I will miss this Aperol goblet with all my heart when graduation time comes. The bartenders put care into these drinks with different assortments of fruits depending on the day and sometimes if you’re lucky, lollipops and gummy bears to top it off.
Any other pub pales in comparison to this gorgeous spritz. The goblet-style glass, the perfect Aperol-to-Prosecco ratio, and minimal soda water make every sip worthwhile. Truthfully, I could fill an entire article about the Criterion’s Aperol.
The Dunny (Dunvegan Hotel)
Price: £15
If you have some extra money to spend on a spritz that won’t disappoint, head to the Dunny. Here, they use a mini bottle of prosecco for each spritz which means the spritz hits a lot harder than any local competitor. They do not skimp out on the alcohol, making you feel better about spending double the price of a typical drink. Served in oversized glasses, it is a generous pour that feels like it never ends. Overall, no complaints about the drink itself, but don’t be surprised when all you get is a single orange slice.
Mozza
Price: £9
If you’re fan of the classic spritz and pizza combo, go to Mozza for a decently priced and satisfying meal. Their spritz stands out with its skewer of sour gummies and blueberries— a delightful touch that sets it apart. What’s so nice about Mozza is that you get the restaurant ambiance and get to have good food and drinks without breaking the bank.
Honorable Mention:
The Central
Price: £6 with student discount
If you’re after a classic pub vibe with a cheaper Aperol, The Central is the place to go. Although the taste won’t blow you away, the £6 price tag and social energy makes it worth a visit. They appeal to students by offering the student discount even on the Aperol, so it is an extra incentive to add it to your itinerary for a night out.
Not long ago, their spritz game was questionable… (very soda water heavy), but since, they have majorly improved which is why they earned their Honorable Mention spot. Another co-founder of ASS, Melissa Ieger Gaeski emphasizes the importance of the 3:2:1 ratio: “3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, 1 part soda water. And lots of ice.”
The Central seems to have taken notes and I applaud them for it
BOTTOM 3 SPRITZES:
One Under
Price: £16.50
This might come as a shock but one of the worst Aperol spritzes in town goes to the Rusacks hotel’s underground pub. Firstly, the hefty price tag on this drink is absurd at £16.50. Secondly, if a drink is going to cost this much, it better be the best thing I’ve ever had. And it simply, is not.
Very heavy on the Aperol, low carbonation with the soda water, not enough prosecco, and little ice. The pure fundamentals of the Aperol spritz are abandoned when it comes to this drink. Dropping the ball on this subpar spritz, they excel with many other beverages.
Molly Malones
Price: £6.50
Molly’s is tricky because my friends and I are loyal to this pub for reasons other than spritzes so it is hard to bash them for something they don’t claim to be good at. They don’t even advertise it on their menu— and for good reason. Poor-quality prosecco, too much soda water, and barely any ice, makes this a drink to avoid. Opt for literally anything else on the menu.
Whey Pat
Price: £6
Again, the Whey Pat is not the place for a spritz. They should just stay in their lane and get rid of the spritz menu as a whole. They are great for a pint but can’t do an Aperol spritz justice. ASS co-founder Casey McClendon described their Aperol spritz as a “witch’s poison or a gingerbread house” which misses the mark in every way. It’s fun for atmosphere but steer clear of the spritz if you value your taste buds (and your mood).
In conclusion:
I hope this thoroughly researched (and devotedly tested) guide to St Andrews’ Aperol spritzes proves helpful. And a special thank you to the ladies of ASS for their selfless work in this endeavor to finding the best and worst Aperols in town.
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