The Best Places to Eat in Newcastle: A Foodie’s Guide

One of the many jewels in Newcastle’s crown is its burgeoning food scene. From classic brunch spots to elegant dinner venues, the city caters to every palate and occasion so whether you are living in the city or just visiting, you will be well catered for by the eateries of Newcastle.

That being the case, join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the best places to eat in Newcastle, for every meal of the day.

Breakfast: Quay Ingredient

Start your day off right at Quay Ingredient, a charming café situated under the Tyne Bridge on the Quayside. Renowned for its exceptional breakfast menu, this place is a haven for early risers.

Their take on the classic Eggs Benedict, served with locally sourced ham and homemade hollandaise sauce, will make you a repeat visitor.

Brunch: Olive & Bean

Nestled in the heart of Newcastle, Olive & Bean is a vibrant, cosy spot for brunch. This independent coffee and sandwich shop is popular for its friendly atmosphere and impressive menu.

The avocado toast, topped with fresh tomatoes and a sprinkle of feta, alongside their exquisite loose leaf teas, is a crowd favourite, and their vast selection of quirky cakes and pastries will also give you a sweet start to your day.

Lunch: Leila Lily’s

A trip to Newcastle wouldn’t be complete without Sunday lunch at Leila Lily’s. His stylish and contemporary restaurant, located on Grey Street, offers an unforgettable dining experience. Their Sunday roast, featuring succulent meat (or a vegetarian option), crispy roast potatoes, and a perfect Yorkshire pudding, is simply divine. Oh, and if you have room for dessert, their sticky toffee pudding is not to be missed.

Afternoon Tea: Jesmond Dene House

Let’s not forget about the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea. Jesmond Dene House, set in a beautiful Arts and Crafts building, is the place to be for this. With a selection of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones, pastries, and cakes, it’s a real treat.

Their tea menu is equally impressive, with a variety of classic and exotic blends. This tranquil setting offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city centre, making it the perfect venue for a leisurely afternoon.

Dinner: House of Tides

For dinner, treat yourself to the culinary excellence of House of Tides. his Michelin-starred restaurant, run by celebrated chef Kenny Atkinson, offers an extraordinary dining experience. Located within a restored 16th-century merchant’s townhouse on the Quayside, it serves a carefully curated tasting menu that changes with the seasons, so there is always a reason to return. Each dish is a work of art, blending local ingredients and global flavours to create a truly memorable meal.

Celebrations: SIX at the Baltic

When it’s time to celebrate, head over to SIX, the stunning rooftop restaurant at the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. It offers an unforgettable view over the city’s skyline and River Tyne, providing an unmatched backdrop for your special occasion.

The menu there features modern British cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From succulent lamb to indulgent chocolate desserts, each dish is a celebration in itself.

Takeaway: Dabbawal

Even if you’re not in the mood to dine out, you can still experience Newcastle’s culinary excellence at home. For top-quality takeaway, look no further than Dabbawal, the pioneers of Indian street food in the city. Dabbawal’s menu encapsulates the lively spirit of India’s bustling street markets and brings it straight to your living room. From traditional dishes to inventive fusion cuisine, you will not be disappointed with their offerings, which include the fan favourite railway lamb curry, a rich and fragrant dish that takes inspiration from the rail routes of India, and the vibrant paneer tikka, grilled to perfection and served with a tangy chutney.

Snacks: Pet Lamb Patisserie

When it comes to snacks, the Pet Lamb Patisserie in Grainger Market is a must-visit. This delightful bakery, run by two lifelong friends, is famous for its exquisite cupcakes, brownies, and other sweet treats. Try their classic red velvet cupcake or the decadent double chocolate brownie for a midday indulgence. For a lighter option, the lemon drizzle cake, bursting with citrus flavour, is an excellent choice. With the ever-changing selection of beautifully crafted treats at Pet Lamb Patisserie, you can satiate your snack cravings in the most delicious way.

As you can see, Newcastle’s food scene offers a feast of options for every meal. Each venue has its unique charm, and a warm welcome is always guaranteed. So, if you’re a food enthusiast planning your next culinary journey, this vibrant city won’t disappoint!

Charlotte Giver

Charlotte is the founder and editor-in-chief at Your Coffee Break magazine. She studied English Literature at Fairfield University in Connecticut whilst taking evening classes in journalism at MediaBistro in NYC. She then pursued a BA degree in Public Relations at Bournemouth University in the UK. With a background working in the PR industry in Los Angeles, Barcelona and London, Charlotte then moved on to launching Your Coffee Break from the YCB HQ in London’s Covent Garden and has been running the online magazine for the past 10 years. She is a mother, an avid reader, runner and puts a bit too much effort into perfecting her morning brew.