Newcastle’s food scene has undergone a quiet revolution over the past decade. What was once overshadowed by the city’s legendary nightlife is now a genuine culinary destination — with a diverse mix of fine dining, independent bistros, world-class street food, and one of England’s greatest Victorian markets.
Here’s our definitive guide to the best restaurants in Newcastle upon Tyne.
The Quayside — Newcastle’s Premier Dining Destination
The Quayside is home to Newcastle’s most atmospheric restaurants, with most offering stunning views of the iconic bridges.
Dobson & Parnell
One of Newcastle’s finest restaurants, Dobson & Parnell serves refined modern British cuisine in an elegant setting near the Quayside. The seasonal menu showcases the best of Northumberland’s produce — think North Sea fish, Northumbrian lamb, and local game. Price: £££
The Broad Chare
A proper Geordie pub reinvented as a gastronomic destination. The Broad Chare serves exceptional British pub food — proper pies, expertly sourced meat, and one of the best ale selections on the Quayside. Price: ££
Caffe Vivo
An enduring Newcastle institution, Caffe Vivo serves rustic Italian cooking with excellent pasta and a genuinely warm, neighbourhood atmosphere. The Quayside location makes it perfect for a relaxed dinner with bridge views. Price: ££
Jesmond — Newcastle’s Independent Restaurant Quarter
The leafy suburb of Jesmond has established itself as Newcastle’s most vibrant independent food scene, away from the city centre crowds.
Röam
A stunning modern restaurant on Jesmond Road, Röam serves creative, globally-inspired small plates using hyper-local Northumbrian ingredients. The cocktail programme is outstanding. Price: £££
Pleased to Meet You
A Newcastle institution — Pleased to Meet You combines a superb gin bar (over 100 gins) with excellent modern British food. The Sunday roasts have achieved legendary status in the city. Price: ££
Peace & Loaf
Peace & Loaf consistently features in national restaurant rankings. Chef Dave Coulson’s modern British tasting menus showcase technical brilliance alongside genuine warmth and accessibility. Price: ££££
Grainger Market — Street Food Heaven
The magnificent Grainger Market (built in 1835) combines traditional market traders with a new generation of artisan food producers and street food vendors.
Look out for:
- The Grainger Market Bakery — exceptional sourdough and pastries
- Fenwick’s Food Hall (adjacent) — luxury deli and food-to-go
- Various hot food stalls — breakfast sandwiches, fresh pasta, Asian street food
The market is open Monday–Saturday, 9am–5pm (varies by stall).
Ouseburn Valley — Craft Beer and Street Food
Ouseburn is Newcastle’s bohemian quarter, and its food and drink scene reflects that character. Think craft beer, natural wine, and globally-inspired cooking in converted industrial spaces.
The Cluny
An iconic Ouseburn venue combining a live music space with an excellent bar and simple, quality food. The Sunday lunch is legendary. Price: £
Wylam Brewery (Exhibition Park)
Not in Ouseburn but essential: Wylam Brewery operates out of the stunning Victorian glasshouse in Exhibition Park. Excellent craft beer brewed on-site, food trucks, and a magnificent setting. Price: £-££
Newcastle’s Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants
Newcastle’s plant-based dining scene has exploded in recent years.
- Yozakura (Japanese, Jesmond) — exceptional plant-based Japanese cuisine
- 1901 Restaurant (city centre) — creative vegan menu in a stunning Victorian setting
- Fat Hippo — gourmet smash burgers with excellent vegan options
Price Guide
| Symbol | Typical cost per person (food only) |
|---|---|
| £ | Under £15 |
| ££ | £15–35 |
| £££ | £35–60 |
| ££££ | Over £60 |
Practical Tips
- Book ahead — Newcastle’s best restaurants fill up fast, especially on weekends
- Sunday lunch is a serious institution in Newcastle — many restaurants do exceptional Sunday roasts
- Happy hour — many Quayside restaurants offer pre-theatre or early evening deals
- Parking — consider the Quayside or City Centre multi-stories and arrive before 7pm
Newcastle’s restaurant scene rewards exploration. Head beyond the Quayside into Jesmond, Ouseburn, and Heaton for the city’s most exciting independent dining.
