Best restaurants in Newcastle

Modelled after a stylish Parisian wine bar, The French Quarter is located under an old railway arch and serves up tapas-style French food designed to reject the idea that French cuisine is too fussy or formal. 

Don't be fooled by the laid-back nonchalant-ness of this all-day hangout. Local chef and restaurateur Anna Hedworth has made her dream of owning a restaurant a reality, and its seasonal sharing plates are a joy to behold.

Apparently the oldest dining room in the UK, Blackfriars serves up British classics including gin-cured salmon, lemon sole and a proper sticky toffee pudding, while interiors feature plush red seating and dark wood features.

This modern bistro does what it says on the tin - serving 21 dishes made using seasonal ingredients. The offering changes with the seasons, but at any time of the year you can expect to see various global influences.

Set in an old cow barn, Michelin-starred Pine makes use of local ingredients foraged from the Northumberland surroundings, or grown in the kitchen garden. Perfect for those looking to switch off and experience exceptional food.

Solstice sits within reach of the iconic Newcastle Tyne Bridge, serving only a tasting menu in an intimate setting. More of an experience than a meal, guests can expect 15-18 dishes based around simplicity, seasonality and sustainability.

Saltwater's fresh fish counter is the stuff of dreams for anyone who loves a fruits de mer platter or a lovely bit of dressed crab. Chef's keep things simple and classic, which is always the best option when the produce is as good as this. 

Owned by Masterchef: The Professionals star David Coulson, Peace & Loaf’s homey atmosphere and enticing menu have made this restaurant a must visit for diners looking for classic British dishes with a twist.

Specialising in casual fine dining, Dobson & Parnell's modern and homey restaurant is great for special occasions or date nights. Choose between a five- or seven-course tasting menu of exquisitely prepared dishes.

This Michelin-starred spot serves up beautifully presented dishes in a traditional 16th century townhouse, priding itself on its casual, informal take on fine-dining. It's best reserved for romantic date nights or special occasions.

Featuring high arches lined with tiles and art deco fixtures, the restaurant harks back to the age of old-school Italian glamour. Expect stomach-warming, comforting dishes that are simple, yet full of pleasure.

Proving that neighbourhood-style sharing menus are stronger than ever, Lovage serves up authentic Mediterranean dishes with the occasional Middle Eastern-inspired twist, using only the best quality seasonal produce. 

A hidden gem in the city since 1995, Pani’s family run Italian café specialises in Sardinian food in a cosy and intimate setting with décor reminiscent of the kind of restaurants you would find on the island itself. 

Taking inspiration from the joys of French cuisine, Ophelia serves up satisfying brasserie-style dishes in the neighbourhood of Gosforth. It’s more than just good food though - the setting is equally warm and timeless.

Arguably the most unique Indian restaurant in the city, Valley Junction is housed inside a former railway carriage that dates back to 1912, and was originally intended to be hired out by the wealthy for their long journeys.

This grown-up gastropub prides itself on using local produce to create comfort food that’s worth writing home about. We reckon The Bridge Tavern has nailed it with a menu of classic and contemporary pub grub.

Serving up good old fashioned British pub grub (the dishes here are hailed as ‘proper food’), The Broad Chare is a great spot for a pint and a hearty, carb-heavy meal.