Are you looking for the best restaurants in Newcastle? Well, you have come to the right place! Whether you are a local or just passing through, Newcastle’s diverse culinary scene promises to satisfy every palate. But what makes Newcastle’s food scene unique, and which restaurants stand out? Let’s explore.
What Food is Newcastle Known for?
- Stottie Cake: A traditional bread unique to the region, perfect for sandwiches and filling snacks.
- Pease Pudding: A savory dish made from split yellow peas, often enjoyed as a side or in sandwiches.
- Pan Haggerty: A comforting dish of layered potatoes, onions, and cheese baked to perfection.
- Saveloy Dip: A popular street food featuring a saveloy sausage served with pease pudding and gravy.
- Newcastle Brown Ale: A famous local beer that has become a symbol of Newcastle’s brewing history.
15 Best Restaurants in Newcastle
The French Quarter
| The French Quarter Opening Times | ||
|---|---|---|
| BAR/LIGHT BITES | KITCHEN | |
| MON | Closed | Closed |
| TUE | 12:00 – 23:00 | 12:00 – 14:30 / 17:00 – 21:30 |
| WED | 12:00 – 23:00 | 12:00 – 14:30 / 17:00 – 21:30 |
| THU | 12:00 – 23:00 | 12:00 – 14:30 / 17:00 – 21:30 |
| FRI | 12:00 – 23:00 | 12:00 – 14:45 / 17:00 – 21:30 |
| SAT | 12:00 – 23:00 | 12:00 – 21:30 |
| SUN | Closed | Closed |
Address: Arch 6 Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear, NE1 1SA
Good French cuisine that doesn’t cost a fortune can be hard to find, but not in Newcastle. Cosily situated in the arches of Westgate Road, the French Quarter is one of the best restaurants in Newcastle. At the French Quarter restaurant and wine bar, you can expect authentic French dishes cooked to perfection at very reasonable prices, all in a relaxed, pleasant setting. The food is served as small plates, so it’s great for sharing, and the service is impeccable. OpenTable ranks it in the “Top 100 restaurants in the UK“, and notable northern publications such as Living North mag, High Life North, and Northern Insight also praise it.
Cook House
Opening Times: Wed 5.30 pm – 11 pm; Thurs & Fri 12 noon – 11 pm; Sat 10 am – 11 pm; Sun 10 am – 3 pm
Address: Foundry Lane Studios, Foundry Ln, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1LH
Cook House is a casual restaurant located in the Ouseburn area of Newcastle. The brick-clad interior provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal or a night out with friends. As one of the top restaurants in Newcastle, Cook House sources all of its produce from local suppliers, with an ever-changing seasonal menu. If you are looking for a place that serves fresh, great-tasting home-cooked food that looks and feels good, we highly recommend going to Cook House. In addition to the food, Cook House also offers a variety of cocktails. Cook House also has a connected shop where you can buy some of the ingredients they use in their own delicious dishes.
21
Opening Times:
- Tuesday – Friday: Lunch 12.00 pm – 2.30 pm; Dinner 5.30 pm – 9.00 pm
- Saturday: Lunch 12.00 pm – 2.30 pm; Dinner 5.30 pm – 10.00 pm
- Sunday: Lunch 12.00 pm – 5.00 pm
Address: Trinity Gardens, Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2HH
21 is one of the more popular restaurants in Newcastle City Centre and one of Newcastle’s longest-established eateries, having first opened in its former location in 1988. Newcastle locals know 21 well, as it was a cornerstone of Newcastle’s cultural renaissance in the late 80s/early 90s. 21 provides the perfect setting for a delicious meal with terrific service. On the menu is classic European bistro food with a thoroughly modern touch and crafted with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Still, the restaurant is the real finishing touch with crisp white tablecloths, elegant polished wooden floors, and spotlit tables for an intimate atmosphere.
Dabbawal
Newcastle has plenty to offer in terms of Indian food, so if you’re a big curry fan, you’ll definitely want to take a look at the best Indian restaurants in Newcastle upon Tyne while planning your visit. Dabbawal is Newcastle’s Indian street food restaurant, and here, you can tuck into authentic street food dishes on any day of the week. There are two branches of Dabbawal in Newcastle, one at High Bridge and one in Jesmond. If you’re stuck on a choice, order the Chef’s Special Menu and let the chefs surprise you with their choices of dishes from the daily menu. Vegetarians are also especially well catered to at Dabbawal, which has a range of flavor-filled dishes to choose from.
| Dabbawal Addresses and Opening Times | ||
|---|---|---|
| Addresses | Opening Times | |
| HIGH BRIDGE | 69-75 High Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6BX | Mon to Thurs: 12 pm – 2.30 pm, 5 pm – 10.30 pm Friday & Saturday: 12 pm – 11 pm Sunday: 12 pm – 10.30 pm Last orders 15 mins before close. |
| JESMOND | 1 Brentwood Mews, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 3DG | Mon to Thurs: 12 pm – 2.30 pm, 5 pm – 10 pm Friday & Saturday: 12 pm – 10.30 pm Sunday: 12 pm – 10 pm Last orders 15 mins before close. |
Blackfriars
Opening Times: Monday – Saturday 12 pm – 2.30 pm / 5 pm – late; Sunday 12 pm – 4 pm
Address: Blackfriars, Friars Street, Newcastle, NE1 4XN
Blackfriars is believed to be the oldest dining room in the UK, so it’s perfect for history buffs and foodies alike. Blackfriars is set within a 13th-century former Dominican friary. Established in 1239, it remains the jewel of Newcastle’s medieval past and has a fascinating history. A meal at Blackfriars is an undeniably unique dining experience, offering a menu overflowing with the best food in Newcastle. The menu is seasonal, offering classic British fare made using fresh local ingredients. Over the years, Blackfriars has expanded from the friar’s refectory dining room to almost all the remaining claustral out-buildings and today boasts a Banquet Hall, Parlour Bar, Cookery School, and Tasting Room as well as several function/meeting rooms.
House of Tides
Opening Times:
- Lunch: Thursday to Saturday: 12.00 pm – 2.00 pm
- Dinner: Wednesday to Saturday: 5.30 pm – 9.00 pm
- Closed: Sunday, Monday & Tuesday
Address: 28-30 The Close Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3RF
House of Tides, one of the best places to eat in Newcastle, is a One Star Michelin and Four AA Rosette awarded restaurant. It is a casual, informal fine dining restaurant that is set over two floors. The rustic ground floor entrance level, with its original 16th-century flagstones and exposed beams, provides an excellent venue whether you’re settling in for a drink, pre-dinner aperitif, or a leisurely nightcap. The first floor, which houses the main restaurant seating area, also has exposed beams, a big open fireplace as well as views over the River Tyne. House of Tides is a thoroughly British restaurant, offering set tasting menus that change daily to reflect the availability of local produce.
Peace & Loaf
Headed up by Chef Proprietor Dave Coulson, Peace & Loaf is a restaurant unlike other Newcastle restaurants. With over two decades of experience, Dave has an unrivaled reputation and passion for creating flavorsome and innovative dishes, which shows in the diverse tasting menus on offer. Highlighting the importance of using only the freshest, locally sourced produce, Peace & Loaf will offer exciting, seasonal menus that will incorporate Dave’s signature dishes. Heavily inspired by traditional British cuisine with Dave’s own inventive flare, the meticulously crafted dishes will excite and intrigue even the most discerning of palates.
Opening Times: Wednesday to Saturday 12:00 – 13:45, 17:30 – 21:00
Address: 217 Jesmond Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 1LA
The Broad Chare
| The Broad Chare Opening Times | ||
|---|---|---|
| Dining Room |
Lunch | Weekdays: 12 pm to 2.30 pm |
| Saturday: 12 pm to 2.30 pm | ||
| Sunday: 12 pm to 5 pm | ||
| Dinner | Weekdays: 5.30 pm to 9.15 pm | |
| Saturday: 5.30 pm to 10 pm | ||
| Sunday: Closed | ||
| Bar | Drinks | Mon to Sat: 12 pm to 11 pm |
| Sun: 12 pm to 10 pm | ||
| Snacks | Mon to Sat: 12 pm to 9.15 pm | |
| Sunday: 12 pm to 5 pm | ||
The Broad Chare offers all the best bits of a traditional ale-house – well-kept beer, honest food, friendly company, and good cheer – with a fresh, modern touch. It serves classic fare like mince and dumplings, fish and chips, and Scotch eggs. Nothing fancy, nothing fussy, just genuine warmth and an open-hearted welcome. One of those pubs you thought had disappeared (along with whistling milkmen and red telephone boxes), it’s the result of a happy partnership between Terry Laybourne’s 21 Hospitality and Live Theatre, one of the country’s leading new writing theatres. It’s one of the best restaurants in Newcastle for anyone looking for an authentic and enjoyable experience in Newcastle.
Address: 25 Broad Chare, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3DQ
Khai Khai
Opening Times:
- Monday – Thursday: 12 noon to 2.30 pm; 5 pm to 10.30 pm
- Friday – Saturday: 12 noon to 11 pm
- Sunday: 12 noon to 9.30 pm
Address: 29 Queen Street, Quayside, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 3UG
Fat Hippo
Opening Times: Mon-Sun 11:30 – 22:30
Addresses:
- 2-6 Shakespeare Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6AQ
- 35a St. Georges Terrace, West Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2SU
Fat Hippo, one of the best restaurants in Newcastle upon Tyne, has burgers that are dangerously addictive. There are two branches of Fat Hippo in Newcastle, one in the city center and the other in Jesmond, so that’s at least two excuses to try their squelchy, succulent take on Americana. All the beef is ground in-house daily, so whether you sink your teeth into a classic American or experiment with delicious toppings like peanut butter, chili jam, or candied bacon, you’re guaranteed a real burger experience. Recognized for the quality ingredients and quirky flavors, they also have a decent vegan, gluten-free, and kids’ selection. They are the best burgers we have ever tried!
Pani's Café
Opening Times: Mon – Thu 12:00-15:00/17:00-21:00; Fri – Sat 12:00-22:00; Sun Closed
Address: 61-65 High Bridge, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 6BX
You’ll find Pani’s Café, one of the best restaurants in Newcastle city centre and Newcastle’s best-known Italian cafe, opposite the Theatre Royal. Opened in 1995 as the first true Italian/Sardinian cafe, they have served traditional Sardinian foods but never stopped innovating and making exciting Sardinian-themed dishes. Service is quick, and prices are very reasonable. It allows you to linger over dishes that use the finest and freshest ingredients, imported directly from Italy or locally sourced suppliers. Pani’s Café also has an extensive drinks list, including a selection of classic cocktails and a wine list featuring wines from Italy and France.
Chucho's
Opening Times: Pickup & Delivery Mon-Sun 9:00 – 15:00/17:00 – 22:30
Addresses:
- 271A Shields Rd, Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne NE6 1DQ
- 36 Acorn Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2DJ
If you are looking for something quick, casual, and tasty, Chucho’s has got you covered. Chucho’s started as a van but after winning many fans with their flavourful tacos, they took up permanent residence in Byker. Two Mexican guys run this place. They offer authentic Mexican street food, including tacos, quesadillas, nachos, chilaquiles, and churros. Chucho’s signature tacos are fresh, authentic, and very tasty, and they also have desserts, Mexican beers, and a cocktail of cocktails. The prices are great value, with tacos from around £2 each, so it’s one of the ideal Newcastle restaurants if you need a cheap meal. They have a cute little space at the end of the high street, just a few tables and stools, as well as a takeaway option.
Scream for Pizza
Opening Times: Mon – Fri 5-10 pm; Sat – Sun 12-10 pm
Address: 21–25 Starbeck Avenue, Sandyford, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 1RJ
The Scream adventure began back in 2014 when its founders, Victoria and Alex, left their jobs as cruise ship workers and headed to Naples to pursue a passion for pizza. Training at Enzo Coccias celebrated “La Notizia restaurant” sealed their ambition to start a pizza business on their return home to the UK. They pledged to create pizza worth screaming about. Scream for Pizza is influenced by the ancient traditions and techniques taught to its founders during their time in Naples, all while adding a playful twist to pizza making. They are passionate about delivering surprising topping combinations and always use locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and great quality Italian artisanal products.
Dobson & Parnell
Opening Times:
- Thursday-Saturday: 12 pm – 2 pm
- Wednesday-Saturday: 5 pm – late
- Sunday: 12 pm – 4 pm
Address: 21 Queen St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3UG
Dobson & Parnell is one of the best Newcastle restaurants, offering a range of British and European dishes. It is owned by the same guys as Blackfriars. It was opened in 2016 and named in honor of two of Newcastle’s Victorian architectural stalwarts, John Dobson and William Parnell, who designed the building in 1863. The menu is expertly crafted and features a variety of delicious options, making it an excellent choice for a special occasion or a romantic night out. The restaurant also offers clever cocktails that perfectly complement the food. The sophisticated space has a buzzy vibe that adds to the dining experience.
Simla
Opening Times:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Thursday: 5:30 – 11 pm
- Friday: 5:30 – 11.30 pm
- Saturday: 4 – 11.30 pm
- Sunday: 5:30 – 11 pm
Address: 39 Side, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3JE
Find Accommodation Near the Best Newcastle Restaurants
Several options are available for accommodation near the best restaurants in Newcastle, catering to different preferences and budgets. Here, we reveal various accommodation options near the best restaurants in Newcastle, ensuring that your gastronomic tour is matched with a comfortable and convenient stay.
Hotels in Newcastle
Serviced Apartments in Newcastle
Bed & Breakfasts in Newcastle
Student Accommodation in Newcastle
For university students in Newcastle, student accommodation options are plentiful and well-connected to the city’s best restaurants. When it comes to finding student accommodation in Newcastle, uhomes.com is a highly recommended platform. We offer a wide range of options near various universities and colleges in Newcastle, ensuring students can find housing that suits their preferences and needs. Recommended convenient and affordable student accommodation options include The Glassworks, Garth Heads, Market House, and more. You can visit uhomes.com for more information.
Tips to Choose the Best Restaurant in Newcastle for You
When choosing where to eat in Newcastle, there are a few tips to help you find a dining spot that suits your preferences:
- Preference: Consider what type of cuisine you are in the mood for. Newcastle offers a variety of options ranging from traditional British fare to international cuisines like Thai, Italian, French, and more.
- Budget: Determine your budget beforehand, as restaurants in Newcastle vary in price range. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a casual meal, knowing your budget can help narrow down your choices.
- Location: Consider the restaurant’s location. Whether you prefer a spot in the city center, by the waterfront, or in a cozy neighborhood, the ambiance and surroundings can enhance your dining experience.
- Reviews: Check out reviews from websites like TripAdvisor, Michelin Guide, and local food blogs to see what others say about the restaurants in Newcastle. Personal recommendations from friends or locals can also be valuable.
- Special Features: Consider if you’re looking for any special features such as a view, outdoor seating, live music, or a unique dining concept. These factors can add extra delight to your dining experience.
Conclusion
By exploring the best restaurants in Newcastle, you embark on a flavorful journey that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also reflects the city’s rich cultural tapestry through its food. Newcastle’s culinary scene offers diverse dining experiences that cater to every palate and preference. From charming cafes serving local delicacies to upscale restaurants showcasing international flavors, the city’s food landscape is a vibrant tapestry.
FAQ
Does Newcastle have a Michelin star restaurant?
Yes, Newcastle has a Michelin-starred restaurant. House of Tides, located in Newcastle upon Tyne, is the city’s only one-star Michelin restaurant. Situated on the iconic Quayside, House of Tides offers a modern British tasting menu that has earned it both a Michelin star and Four AA Rosettes.
Where is the street food scene in Newcastle?
Newcastle boasts a lively street food scene with several popular spots to enjoy delicious and diverse culinary offerings. Locations such as Quayside Market, Grainger Market, and Jesmond Food Market offer just a glimpse of the diverse street food scene in Newcastle.
What is Newcastle's national dish?
Newcastle’s national dish is often considered to be “Newcastle Brown Ale Pie.” This hearty pie features succulent pieces of meat, typically beef or lamb, cooked slowly in a rich gravy that includes Newcastle Brown Ale — a beloved local beer. The filling is encased in a flaky pastry crust. It is often served with sides like mushy peas or creamy mashed potatoes.
