Believe the foodie hype
Newcastle’s food scene is buzzing, so make sure to take in these recommended restaurants.
Newcastle’s rejuvenation means it now has a buzzing foodie scene to go with its Victorian grandeur, industrial heritage, urban vitality and legendary nightlife. A visit to the city wouldn't be complete without some decent eating, so make sure to factor in some top-drawer scran at our recommended restaurants.
21 Newcastle
Just off the Quayside, the airy, glass-fronted brasserie’s appealing contemporary dishes are as popular with the area's office workers as with the people who 'do lunch'. Bright and welcoming, it remains as buzzy as ever, with slick service keeping things on the boil.
Fern Dining Room & Bar
The Fern Dining Room is part of the allure of Jesmond Dene House. It sits in a tranquil wooded valley, yet is actually within the city limits of Newcastle. Dishes are executed with refinement, creativity and top-drawer skills.
Hotel du Vin Newcastle
The converted red-brick Edwardian warehouse of the Tyne Tees Steam Shipping Company enjoys commanding views of the city's many bridges, while, as might be expected from this well-established chain, the restaurant has the look of a French bistro, with dark wood floors and wooden-topped tables.
House of Tides
Born-and-bred Geordie Kenny Atkinson's contemporary restaurant has put this previously neglected quarter of the city firmly on the gastronomic map. Set within a beautifully restored 16th-century former merchant’s townhouse, his much-accoladed operation works a contemporary chic ambience for stellar modern dining.
Blackfriars Restaurant
Dating back to the 13th century, Blackfriars Restaurant dates has plenty of original features, and is thought to be the oldest purpose-built dining room in the UK. Menus are a bit more modern than that though, and there's an impressive wine list
Dobson & Parnell
Named after the two architects responsible for its design, this bustling informal restaurant offers refined European cuisine in a charming Victorian setting.
The Broad Chare
Just off the Quayside, this proper pub in a converted 18th-century warehouse features stripped-back rustic wood and exposed stone. Nothing fancy, nothing fussy, just great beer to go with top-quality local produce simply put together for full-bore flavour. The specials board changes regularly.
Supa Satra Restaurant
The regional specialities of this Indian restaurant hail from Kerala, and are delivered in an exuberantly decorated setting just off the quayside.
Leila Lily's
Part of the boutique Grey Street Hotel in the heart of Newcastle, Leila Lily’s bar and restaurant rocks a glam décor of exuberant wallpapers, neon lights and flower displays around the centrepiece marble table. Food-wise, expect a modern grill with Asian influences.
Hibou Blanc
Built in 1902 for the Lever Brothers, Hibou Blanc is a remarkably attractive place. The colour scheme is brown and ochre with camel coloured leather banquettes and wooden library shelves. The cooking is refined French bistro.
