5 Best Places to Eat in Newcastle

From the historic Tyne Bridge to bustling shopping locations, Newcastle boasts plenty to see and do. And as one of the Northeast’s friendliest cities, it’s long since had a reputation for its vibrant hospitality scene and friendly residents.

It’s no surprise, then, that Newcastle is jam-packed full of unique restaurants that provide an outstanding dining experience. Whether you’re staying in Newcastle for a work trip or planning a city break with friends, this iconic city has lots to offer in terms of restaurants.

From classic pub grub venues to picturesque seaside eateries, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking somewhere to grab a bite. Read on as we take you through a list of the five best places to eat in Newcastle.

Some of the best places to dine in Newcastle include:

• House of Tides
• Zapatista
• Träkol at By the River Brew Co.
• The Bridge Tavern
• The Valley Junction

Best restaurants in Newcastle

House of Tides

Highlights: Beautifully presented dishes. Great for special occasions or romantic meals for two.

Looking for restaurants near Quayside Newcastle? House of Tides restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a spot of fine dining. Located on the historic Newcastle Quayside, this charming eatery is nestled inside the Grade I listed former merchant’s townhouse.

House of Tides is set over two floors, with the first floor housing the main restaurant and the rustic ground floor offering the ideal space to grab a pre-dinner drink and browse the menu. The restaurant seating area features exposed wooden beams, creating a relaxed setting to enjoy your evening meal.

Here, head chef Kenny Atkinson uses fresh blends of ingredients to create a range of modern-inspired dishes. The restaurant offers set tasting menus and an extensive selection of wines to enjoy alongside your food. The menus change daily to mirror the availability of local produce.

View the most up-to-date menu here.

 
Zapatista

Highlights: Child-friendly restaurant.

Zapatista is a charismatic burrito bar located at two sites across Newcastle City Centre. This friendly restaurant serves delicious burritos, tacos, fajitas and nachos – made fresh in front of you. Relax in Zapatista’s comfortable seating area and tuck into a plate of mouth-watering classic Mexican food.

Its team of talented chefs strive to provide guests with immaculately presented handmade food, catering to precise requests and specifications. If you’re planning a day of exploration with the whole family, Zapatista is an excellent spot to unwind and refuel. The restaurant also offers a takeaway service so you can take your food back to your hotel or eat on the go.

View the menu here.

Träkol at By the River Brew Co.

Highlights: Great for special events. A social place to eat and drink.

Träkol is situated within the By the River Brew Co., an independent container settlement found beneath the Tyne Bridge. This popular riverside restaurant features an open-fire kitchen and uses locally sourced food to create superior, high-quality dishes. The restaurant boasts a relaxed setting amid the rustic backdrop of a shipping container, and it is rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the top restaurants in Newcastle Gateshead.

Träkol specialises in flavourful, seasonal meats which are preserved in traditional ways to add to their flavour. The restaurant’s menus are constantly changing to reflect the shifting seasons. Book a table at this nationally acclaimed venue to sample tasty food crafted using ethical cooking methods. What’s more, you can enjoy stunning views of the River Tyne while you eat.

View the current menu here.

The Bridge Tavern

Highlights: Traditional pub grub. Cosy setting.

A firm favourite among visitors and locals alike, the Bridge Tavern is the ideal spot to enjoy a good old Sunday roast. Located close to the remarkable Tyne Bridge, this snug restaurant serves a range of seasonal British dishes with their own unique twists. Whether you’re after a quick light bite or a substantial evening meal, the Bridge Tavern provides much-loved comfort food options to tantalise your taste buds.

Enjoy a pint of the best local ale alongside a warming plate of food before heading off to enjoy the rest of Newcastle’s best bits. Some of the menu highlights include smoked cauliflower steak and beer-battered haddock. If you fancy something sweet, you can indulge in irresistible dishes including sticky toffee pudding, elderflower sorbet and caramelised lemon tart. Delicious!

View the full menu here.

View the Sunday roast menu here.

The Valley Junction

Highlights: Stylish dining. Exquisite Indian cuisine.

The Valley Junction is an outstanding Indian restaurant housed inside a former signal box and railway carriage that dates back to 1912. This carriage was originally built for wealthy families to hire out during long journeys. Situated in the heart of Newcastle, The Valley Junction is loved by locals as well as those visiting from outside the city.

Here you can enjoy typical Indian dishes including kormas and tikkas, as well as some lesser-known specials. The Valley Junction showcases a sophisticated interior, with tables adorned with white linen table cloths spread out across the room. You can also order food for takeaway from this restaurant if you’d prefer.

View the menu here.

Hotels in Newcastle 

As well as finding great spots to enjoy a meal, choosing the right hotel for your city break is equally as important. Our Leonardo Hotel Newcastle hotel puts you at the heart of the action with its 274 spacious bedrooms, stylish bar and seasonal restaurant. Located in the very centre of the city, our hotel means you’re never far from the best restaurants across Newcastle.