Two Great Venues; Two Entirely Different Purposes

St Andrews is definitely not short of cafés, but it is short of space. It becomes almost impossible to find somewhere to meet a friend for a chat, or arrange a meeting with a colleague. Two venues serving very different functions are often forgotten amongst the rest of the town’s coffee spots and restaurants.

I don’t know if you’ve ever been to The Hide - I only went for the first time recently, and I wish I had known about it sooner. The cosy nook sits snug above Mitchell’s, Christmas lights draped across the room, mini Christmas trees glowing softly on each table, and the candlelight adds an ambience you don’t often find around St Andrews. 

The Hide (Picture from SPACE)

One thing I despise is hosting an event that feels empty - that awkward shuffle while you wait for more people to fill the room. You don’t get that at The Hide. As soon as you enter, you’re welcomed by the lovely staff and immediately feel at ease. The space comfortably accommodates 30-50 people. 

The seats lined across the back wall adds to the comfort and the smart bar at the entrance is ready to serve creative cocktails (or something simpler - there’s beer too). A gin-fizz is my holiday-season recommendation; sweet, crisp and finished with a dried apple twist.

The Bar at The Hide

And then the food. The nibbles and canapés were astonishingly good. To say I was shocked is an understatement. When someone says they can serve you canapés at a small event, that usually translates to dry, mysterious small dishes. Well not at The Hide. We were surprised with pigs in blankets coated with a delectable sweet honey glaze, crisp-shelled fried cheese, brownies that oozed chocolate, and sweet potato fries that practically melted in your mouth. 

The Hide - Cosy Christmas Decorations and Ambient Lighting

Birthdays, small dinners, live performances - the possibilities go on. The Hide can also cater full dinners, making it an excellent choice for a birthday celebration. If you’re looking to change things up, hosting your birthday dinner here is a perfect option. And with its central location, it’s not only easy for guests to reach, but also ideal if you plan to head out afterwards. 

For societies, this venue is truly unbeatable. If you’re searching for your next event space, The Hide is an ideal option for a relaxed networking event. Perhaps you’d choose Forgan’s for a full three-course meal, but for something cosier, more intimate - a cocktail in one hand and a fresh Christmas cookie in the other - The Hide is hard to beat. 

The Hide: Come and Celebrate Your Next Event (Photo from SPACE)

Speaking of cookies - have you been to Space Café? If not, maybe you should. You might find you’ve been missing out on delicious cappuccinos, flaky croissants, and, more importantly, an excellent place to work. Although maybe I should be keeping this to myself… 

Space Café (Photo from SPACE)

The real highlight is the room itself. A wide floor plan, huge armchairs, and corners begging you to stay for hours. You could easily write an essay here, tucked away in

the warmth. Or hold a meeting without facing the clinical glare of the library. 

Space Café: Your Next Study Spot (Photo from SPACE)

Do you struggle to find seating in Taste or Spoiled? Space, true to its name, almost always has room to sit and hide away for hours. I’m calling it the new study sanctuary - perhaps I’m biased because I hate the library - but more and more people seem to agree. Its atmosphere draws you in, and those armchairs certainly don’t hurt. 

Two venues with two purposes. Both worth keeping in mind the next time you find St Andrews feels too small. 

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