Locally, it is known as The Lizzie. To those not resident in the Dunfermline area it is The Elizabethan and it is situated on busy Halbeath Road, just yards from the busy junction which leads to the Queen Margaret Hospital.
We’ve driven past it many times on the way to visit and wondered what it was like. On this occasion we passed it as we walked towards the surprisingly scenic Town Loch, less than five minutes drive from central Dunfermline, and the national site of Waterski and Wakeboard Scotland.
Incidentally, there were two guys waterskiing despite ice noted in certain parts of the pond. One quipped: “My toe is a little cold.” No wonder.
There is a busy wee cafe on site, only yards from a spacious car park, but we strode on as the rain clouds loomed above and we headed back towards central Dunfermline. By then, we were in need of refreshment, and a comfort break.
Strolling along the Halbeath Road we passed The Elizabethan and thought: “Why not?” In off the main road and around the building through the car park did not set pulses racing, but we came upon the entrance and that looked more inviting.
Opening the doors revealed a spacious, well-appointed bar with a variety of beer pumps, sadly not one with real ale on the day we visited, but there were plenty of alternatives including Spanish and Italian choices.
The menu was pub grubby and it looked good. The prices were OK too so we indulged. Our excuse? It started raining so better inside eating than outside getting wet.
Chicken and leek pie with chips was one pick. Fish and chips the other.
We enjoyed a Birra Moretti and Guinness while our meal was prepared. This was a Wednesday at lunchtime and there were customers dotted around the restaurant which has plenty of room for diners.
Out came the food. The chicken and leek was served in a dish. Loads of meat filling and a tasty sauce. It ticked all the right boxes (£13.95). Speaking of boxes, the beer battered haddock and chips, a big fish by the way, arrived in a box with peas and salad and tartare sauce (£15.95). Pleasing to the eye and also to the palate. The fish flaked beautifully and the chips were spot on.
We thoroughly enjoyed the visit. One further point, the loos were spotless if a little dated and the smell of disinfectant indicated that they had been recently cleaned.
One piece of history. The Elizabethan is named after the daughter of James VI who was born in Dunfermline Palace in August 1596. At the time of her birth, her father was King of Scots only.
Ecosse Inns are the present “incumbents” according to the website and The Elizabethan is only a short walk from East End Park, home of Dunfermline Athletic. Pop in. We enjoyed it and will be back. Opening hours noon to 11 daily, Friday and Saturday noon to 12am.
The Elizabethan, 110 Halbeath Road, Dunfermline KY12 7LX t: 01383 725877
PICTURE: entrance to the restaurant
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