Newcastle upon Tyne is a vibrant city full of rich industrial history and lively culture, reflected beautifully in its diverse food scene. With options ranging from classic British dishes to flavors from around the globe, there’s something here for everyone. While this city has long been appreciated for its hearty meals that catered to its hardworking residents, it has blossomed into a food lover’s haven. Join us as we take a trip through Newcastle’s culinary offerings, highlighting some of its best eateries and essential local treats.
Fine Dining and Historic Experiences
If you’re in the mood for a gourmet dining experience, Newcastle is home to some stunning restaurants.
House of Tides: This is Newcastle’s sole Michelin-starred restaurant and is a must-visit for those who appreciate exquisite British cuisine. House of Tides is all about fresh and sustainable food, featuring beautifully crafted dishes like roast scallops paired with pork belly and their signature Herdwick lamb. While facing Michelin status, it manages to remain quite reasonable price-wise when compared to similar places across the UK.
Blackfriars: Step into history at Blackfriars, which holds the title of the UK’s oldest dining room, dating back to 1239. The atmosphere here is cozy and inviting, with large wooden tables and softly dimmed lights from candles complemented by stunning stained-glass windows. This restaurant celebrates local ingredients and features a menu filled with hearty choices, including a special Sunday summer lunch, a diverse à la carte, and afternoon tea. Each dish tends to balance generous portions with elegant flavors, making for an upscale British dining experience.
Tasty Burgers and Pub Picks
Newcastle also has casual dining to offer, with an array of burger spots and classic pubs waiting to be discovered.
Fat Hippo: Burger lovers cannot skip Fat Hippo. Established in 2010, this steadily growing restaurant is known for its delicious and juicy burgers that are surprisingly affordable during weekday lunch specials. Diners also can guzzle down shakes, fries, and even desserts amidst the restaurant’s quirky underground ambiance.
Tyne Bar: Located in Ouseburn, Tyne Bar merges great food, beverages, and beautiful scenic views with a laidback and inviting venue. This traditional pub often features live music along with a free jukebox, combining a lively atmosphere with satisfying and reasonably priced meals. Food enthusiasts often flock here on Tuesday evenings when they can get a complimentary meal with every drink or snack purchase, making it perfect for those on a budget.
The Broad Chare: Love classic British pub food? Then make your way to The Broad Chare. Inside this pub, hearty portions paired with comforting dishes like fish and chips, mince and dumplings, and scotch eggs create a perfect evening. With rotating daily specials, patrons have the chance to enjoy traditional fare without breaking the bank, all while letting the friendly ambiance enhance their visit.
Tanners Arms: A classic stop for anyone craving an English roast with great value awaits at Tanners Arms. This quaint pub doesn’t have flashy décor, but its excellent meals truly shine. Many locals name it home to one of the best English roasts in town. Families are warmly welcomed here, complete with board games, Lego, and a pool table for some wholesome fun.
Unique Eateries and Flavored Fusion
Beyond its pub and burger options, Newcastle’s independent eateries provide unforgettable culinary experiences showcasing a delightful mix of flavors.
Aveika: This contemporary Japanese restaurant sets itself apart by giving traditional dishes a stylish twist. Not just about food, Aveika is a complete dining experience with sweeping views of the River Tyne, innovative cocktails, and a modern vibe.
Miss Milieus: Completely charming and chic, Miss Milieus chefs focus on using fresh, local ingredients to present an exciting range of dishes that impress. You’ll find a warm atmosphere that utterly enhances your dining solitude.
Meat Stack: Burgers have another stronghold in Meat Stack, much-loved for crafting American-style burgers using top-notch ingredients. This vibrant spot features a wide selection of creatively concocted burgers that satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Khai Khai: Dive into Khai Khai for a modern take on traditional Indian dining. This stylish venue hugs the boundaries of authentic flavors while introducing innovative cooking techniques. It represents hearty dishes within a remarkable casual setting.
Local Favorites You Can’t Miss
No food tour in Newcastle would be complete without trying some beloved local dishes that truly define the region’s food scene.
Craster Kippers: The much-lauded Craster kipper is a sensational treat from the area, originating from smoked herring that has soaked in brine for lengthy hours. The result? Fish bursting with flavor, doubling delightfully with buttered toast and a steaming cup of tea. L. Robson and Sons, with their century-old smokehouses in Craster, hold the title as chief producers of this local specialty.
Pan Haggerty: This comforting home-style dish is akin to potato gratin, featuring a yummy blend of potatoes, onions, and cheese. Originating from mining communities in Northumberland and Durham, it’s a delightful pick for warming up on chilly days.
Stotties: Known as a bread type exclusive to Newcastle, stotties are round, relatively flat loaves boasting a chewy quality. Loved for being versatile, they shine especially when used in classic ham and pease pudding sandwiches.
Pease Pudding: Usually paired with ham and stotties, pease pudding has a historical flavor woven into Newcastle’s culinary draw. Made from split peas, its essence of comfort reflects the locality’s heritage.
More Options Await
Newcastle also carries vast choices of eateries showcasing Italian, French, Korean cuisines, and beyond, making even the pickiest food lover find their feet.
A Culinary Haven
Newcastle’s remarkable food scene reflects its urgent historical excitement and cultural life. Whether you are on the lookout for fine dining, captivating traditional pub meals, or exploring international cuisine, this splendid city brings its culinary treasures right to your plate. With local delights like Craster kippers and pan haggerty alongside a spreading array of restaurants, there’s no doubt that exploring Newcastle’s culinary landscape creates lasting memories of food satisfaction.