Newcastle is not just famous for its university and football, but also for its food. You can find every kind of dish here – Desi Indian Tadka, spicy Thai curry, hot pasta, Japanese sushi, and amazing burgers!
If you have come to visit Newcastle or live here, then every day there is only one question – “Where to eat today?”
It is natural to get confused among so many restaurants and cafes. So we have brought you a simple, reliable, and fun list, which will help you choose the right place according to every budget and every taste.
The Best Places to Eat in Newcastle Right Now
1. Riley’s Fish Shack
We’re starting strong here. If you can hop on the Metro or drive out to Tynemouth, Riley’s Fish Shack is an experience, not just a meal. It’s a shack on the beach—but don’t let that fool you. The seafood is grilled right in front of you, the portions are generous, and it tastes even better with your feet in the sand.
Must try: Grilled monkfish wrap or their fresh sardines. Simple, messy, unforgettable.
2. The Patricia
Jesmond isn’t short on food, but Patricia stands out. It’s small—like, book-ahead small—but they deliver on every level. Think European bistro, but Geordie-style. The menu changes often, and that’s a good thing. The flavours are always in season, and the wine list doesn’t mess around.
Good for: Date nights or dinners when you want to impress without being flashy.
3. Pani’s Café
Right near Grey Street, Pani’s has been around for ages, and good reason. It’s casual, it’s busy (in a good way), and the Sardinian-Italian food hits the spot. You won’t spend a fortune here, but you’ll leave full and happy.
Tip: Their paninis aren’t just sandwiches. They’re art.
4. Thali Tray
This one’s tucked away under railway arches in Ouseburn, and it’s honestly one of the coolest spots in the city. Thali Tray serves Indian food in, well, trays—but it’s bursting with flavour. Plus, you’re sitting under fairy lights with local beers on tap and dogs roaming around. What’s not to love?
Go for: The Punjabi thali tray and a pint of whatever they’ve brewed next door.
5. Brack Burger
Some burgers just do the job. Others make you pause mid-bite and go, “Yeah, this is it.” Brack Burger is the second kind. They operate inside pubs across town and somehow make it feel like a pop-up and a local staple at the same time.
Top tip: The ‘Hangover’ burger is a lifesaver. Don’t skip the loaded fries either.
6. House of Tides
Alright, if you’re celebrating—or maybe just feel like pretending you’re on MasterChef—House of Tides is your spot. It’s Newcastle’s Michelin-starred gem by Kenny Atkinson. Don’t come here expecting quick bites or burgers. It’s a tasting menu, slow-paced, beautifully presented, and yeah, it’s going to dent the wallet. But you’ll talk about it for weeks after.
Pro move: Go for lunch if you want the experience at a slightly friendlier price.
7. The Broad Chare
Right next to the Quayside, The Broad Chare looks like your classic British pub. But the menu says otherwise. Scotch eggs, Sunday roasts, proper chips—they’ve taken comfort food and made it classy, without losing the soul of it.
Try: The steak sandwich with a pint of local ale. It’s simplicity at its best.
8. The Bohemian
Let’s be real: a lot of people hear “vegan” and tune out. But The Bohemian might just change your mind. It’s laid-back, colourful, and the menu is creative without trying too hard. Burgers, nachos, even a vegan cheese board—yeah, that’s a thing now.
Even meat-eaters walk out full and surprised.
9. Dabbawal
With two locations (Jesmond and High Bridge), Dabbawal delivers bold flavours with a twist. It’s Indian street food meets small-plate dining. It’s always lively, the service is sharp, and the food comes out hot and fast.
Perfect for: Sharing a few dishes with mates, or a pre-gig meal if you’re headed out after.
10. Batch Bakery
Sometimes you just want a good sandwich, a hot drink, and a quiet seat. Batch Bakery delivers all three—and then some. Their cinnamon buns are famous, their sourdough is baked daily, and their baristas know what they’re doing. It’s a great mid-afternoon pit stop.
Locations: Heaton and Jesmond, so there’s no excuse not to swing by.
Bonus Tips for Eating in Newcastle
- Ouseburn is where it’s at. Seriously. It’s the city’s creative quarter, full of small cafes, street food, and quirky little hideaways.
- Lunchtime menus = big savings. Many restaurants offer discounted set menus during lunch hours. Same food, smaller bill.
- Sunday roasts are sacred here. Places like The Broad Chare or The Forth pull out all the stops on Sundays.
- Check opening times. Some spots (especially the indie ones) close early or aren’t open all week.
Conclusion
Newcastle’s food scene has grown a lot in the last few years. But the best part? It hasn’t lost its heart. The places listed here aren’t just hyped-up Instagram spots—they’re places where people go, again and again, because the food’s good and the vibe is even better.
So skip the chains. Wander a bit. Try something new. Whether you’re here for a weekend or you live just around the corner, there’s always something new (and tasty) to discover in Newcastle.
FAQs About Places to Eat In Newcastle
1. What’s the best area for food in Newcastle?
Ouseburn and the Quayside are packed with great options—from hidden gems to riverside views.
2. Where can I get a proper Sunday roast?
Check out The Broad Chare, The Forth, or The Town Wall. All do a solid roast with a great atmosphere.
3. Any vegan-friendly places worth trying?
Yep! The Bohemian is a favourite, but Thali Tray and even some pubs now offer decent vegan options.
4. Are reservations necessary?
For popular places like House of Tides or The Patricia—definitely. For others, walking in is usually fine.
5. Where do locals eat?
Honestly, most of the spots on this list. Especially places like Pani’s, Brack Burger, and Dabbawal.
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