Off Course...

New here? We're posting daily from Scotland through September 21 — follow the trip. 

Today was a day of rest, at least for my back. There was no playing golf today nor will we tomorrow. We have several pending rounds that are very important. We have Cruden Bay Wednesday and the Town Match at The Old Course on Saturday. That being said, no golf doesn't mean no fun. Today was a day for enjoying some of my off the course favorites. 

Cullen Skink with warm brown bread....Yes please! Found my way to this years ago and always enjoy a warm bowl of it while here. This stuff is the Scottish version of a clam chowder. It's smoked Haddock, potatoes and onions. So good, especially on a cool Scottish day. 

Our first day here I showed Spence the Jigger Inn from across the fairway on the St Andrews Links Club Observatory Deck. This famous pub sits adjacent to the famed Road Hole on the Old Course. We were able to grab a table outside and watch some of the golf while we grabbed some lunch. Such a cool little spot. It used to be a train master's lodge in years gone by. Now, it's simply a great place to rehash rounds just played or to dream about the ones to come. We did a little of both today. 

The afternoon held another first for Spence. We made our way to the Kingsbarns Distillery for his first ever distillery tour and proper whisky tasting. Miss Mandy, pictured here with Spence, was a delightful host. We actually showed up without a reservation and she was gracious enough to squeeze us in. After touring the production facilities, he was able to have a tasting of Kingsbarns whiskies. I was driving so my options were coffee and water! Nonetheless, it was fun to see her guide Spence through his first tasting experience. What to look for, what to smell and what to taste based on the region of Scotland where it's made. As we were leaving, Miss Mandy pulled me aside and told me what a delightful young man Spence was. I knew this already but of course, I'm a wee bit biased. We walked out with a little something for a special occasion, yet to be determined. 

After the tasting, we headed back to town to end the day on a high note. We had reservations at Little Italy, my absolute favorite restaurant here in St Andrews. Everything about this place was fantastic. They have changed the setup around a bit, expanding the bar and dining areas. Two things that haven't changed, the wonderful food and my friend Darrius. His family owns and runs the place. He came out to visit us at the table as we were wrapping up dinner. Spence said the food was amazing and it was a fantastic experience overall. So much so, we will be back once or twice more this week. 

Today was a great reminder to me that while St Andrews is known for its golf, there is so much more to this place that makes it so special. We are off to explore Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven tomorrow. Looking forward to the drive up the coastline on the A92. See you soon....