If eating your way through a city is your vibe, Newcastle-upon-Tyne is calling. From steaming bowls of Geordie comfort food to Instagram-worthy coffee spots, this city makes it easy (and tasty) to dive right in. No matter where you wander – quirky indie brunch joints, bustling markets, riverside pubs, or slick chef-y spots – there’s something legit around every corner.
The food scene here keeps things local but never boring. Think hand-rolled pasta, slow-cooked pies, and artisan coffee that’ll fix any jet lag. Whether you’re after classic chips or foraging-tasting menus, Newcastle hits all the cravings. Ready to eat?
What to Eat in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Stottie Cake
Stotties are Newcastle’s dense, chewy bread rolls – sort of a Geordie answer to ciabatta. Locals fill them with bacon, sausage, or just butter and pease pudding. Look for fresh-baked stotties at Grainger Market for the real deal.
Pease Pudding
Pease pudding is classic Northern comfort food: smooth spread made from split peas, often piled into sandwiches or served with ham. Hunt it down at cafes and lunch counters throughout the city. Try it in a stottie if you want the Newcastle experience.
Panhaggerty
This casserole mixes potatoes, onions, cheese, and sometimes bacon for maximum coziness. Every family has a version, so you’ll see it pop up on gastropub menus and in homier restaurants across Newcastle.
SINGIN’ HINNY
Singin’ Hinny is a sweet griddled scone, named for the “singing” sound it makes as it cooks on the pan. Have one with a cup of tea at a traditional café, especially if you want a proper Newcastle treat.
Parmo
Parmo (breaded chicken or pork topped with béchamel and cheese) is more from nearby Middlesbrough, but you’ll spot it on menus here too. Great for a late-night feast after pub-hopping.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Ouseburn
Ouseburn is Newcastle’s “cool kid” area, full of artists, live music, and offbeat bars. You’ll find creative food trucks, microbreweries, and pizzerias (some with riverside patios). Perfect spot for an afternoon of grazing, especially at The Cluny or Kiln.
Jesmond
Jesmond is where locals head for stylish brunches, indie bakeries, and laid-back bistros. Brentwood Avenue is the main food drag, mixing global eats and wine bars. Don’t miss a stroll through Jesmond Dene if you want green space after eating.
Heaton
Heaton is loaded with delis, Lebanese street food, barbecue joints, and little cafes to work from. It’s got a studenty but genuinely welcoming feel. Definitely try the Lebanese bakery or stop by the Naked Deli for healthier plates.
Quayside
This riverside area has everything from riverside gastropubs to upmarket tasting menus, with iconic Tyne Bridge views. It’s lively almost any night of the week, especially if you want craft cocktails before you eat. Good spot to start or end an evening.
City Centre/Grainger Town
Right in the heart of Newcastle, you’ve got Grainger Market (a must for foodie souvenirs and street food), plus classic British pubs and twinkling indie restaurants. You’re never short on people-watching or things to try here.
Budget Restaurants in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Zucchini Pasta Bar
This chill pasta spot by the station is all about affordability and fresh, hand-rolled pasta. The atmosphere’s casual but the food is seriously comforting, with most plates under £10. Good for quick lunches or lazy dinners.
Grainger Market Food Stalls
Everyone eats at Grainger Market, especially for cheap global bites, pizza by the slice, or pie and peas. It’s the best spot if you want to taste a bunch of Newcastle classics without breaking the bank.
SnackWallah
Located in Grainger Market, SnackWallah nails vibrant, affordable vegan Indian street food. Try the samosa chaat or a loaded wrap – perfect for a quick refuel before hitting the shops.
Bigg Market Chop House
Hearty British classics, proper pub atmosphere, and main dishes around £10–£12. Ideal if you want a spot with some Newcastle history (and good beer, too).
The Ship Inn (Ouseburn)
A top pick for vegan and veggie pub dishes, right in the heart of Ouseburn creative quarter. Relaxed and friendly – easy to hang out for ages.
Mid-Range Restaurants in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
The Broad Chare
On Quayside, this gastropub does proper pints and grown-up comfort food—think Scotch eggs and slow-roasted mains, all in a wood-panelled setting. Worth booking ahead for Sunday lunch.
Long Friday (Jesmond)
A neighborhood favourite for creative, seasonal British small plates and modern wines. Easygoing, with top-notch service. Great date night option or for a laid-back dinner with friends.
Fat Hippo Underground
If burgers are calling your name, Fat Hippo Underground delivers – creative toppings, skin-on fries, and veggie options. It’s hidden just off Grey Street and perfect for a casual but quality meal.
Dabbawal
Newcastle’s original “street food kitchen” mixing up Indian-inspired dishes with a fun, social vibe. The small plates and buzzing atmosphere make it a solid mid-price pick.
Kiln (Ouseburn)
Part cafe, part pottery studio, Kiln is big on sourdough, mezze, and Mediterranean flavours. Artsy without being precious. Lovely courtyard, live music sometimes.
Luxury Restaurants in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
House of Tides
House of Tides is Newcastle’s Michelin-star play: a tasting menu full of local produce, imaginative techniques, and that “special occasion” atmosphere. It’s historic and genuinely impressive, but not stuffy.
Solstice by Kenny Atkinson
Next-level modern British cuisine, right on the Quayside. Solstice is intimate (book early), seasonal, and joyful. Come hungry and bring someone you want to impress.
21 (Quayside)
21 is slick, quietly elegant, and does creative takes on British classics (and one of the best wine lists in town). Spot for a birthday or celebration—not over the top, just reliably good.
Peace & Loaf (Jesmond)
Inventive, colourful plates in a quirky space. Peace & Loaf is run by a MasterChef finalist with a playful attitude. The desserts are as good as the mains.
Dobson & Parnell
Cool Art Deco vibes, elegant seasonal plates, and a chef’s tasting menu if you want to splash out. Right near the river for that classic Newcastle meal-with-a-view.
Best Coffee Shops in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Tiny Tiny (formerly Flat Caps Coffee)
Tiny Tiny’s an all-day kind of spot for locals: filter brews, homemade pastries, and lots of laptop space. They roast on-site, so the coffee’s always fresh. You’ll find both students and freelancers hanging out here.
Pink Lane Coffee
Single-origin beans, lush cakes, and a laid-back vibe close to the train station. Pink Lane has a real community feeling and friendly staff who know their craft. If you love a slow morning or breakfast with good tunes, this place delivers.
Laneway & Co
Sleek and bright with Aussie-inspired light bites, filter coffees, and superb avocado toast. It’s tiny but mighty. Sit at the window for people-watching.
Meli Cafe
Cosy spot for Greek pastries, iced coffees, and light vegetarian plates. A sweet little find if you’re wandering around Heaton or Jesmond.
Ouseburn Coffee Co
Small-batch North East roasters with a slick cafe; the cold brew is top notch. Try their pastries with a view of the Tyne in Ouseburn.
Markets in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Grainger Market
This indoor market is a Newcastle legend, running since 1835. Grab bread, cheese, bakes, or street food from one of 80+ local traders. Great for fresh deli bits and unique souvenirs.
Quayside Market
Every Sunday, the Quayside transforms into a pop-up market: food stalls, bites to-go, and regional crafts. It’s vibrant, busy, and worth a stroll for snacks from local producers.
Jesmond Food Market
Once a month under Armstrong Bridge, Jesmond Food Market brings in North East producers, indie food trucks, and sweet treats. Perfect if you want a local vibe and plenty of grazing options.
Ouseburn Market
This newer arrival mixes local food stalls, jewelry, and craft producers, especially during festival weekends. Good spot for vegan bakes and microbrewery pop-ups when in town.
Leazes Park Market
Monthly gatherings in Newcastle’s oldest park – come for farmers’ produce, coffee vans, and music. It’s chilled out but foodie focused. Check dates ahead of time.
Budget Accommodation in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Maldron Hotel Newcastle
Central location, comfy rooms, and a solid breakfast buffet for a great price. It’s an easy choice if you want simple comfort right in the city action.
Cairn Hotel Jesmond
Boutique-style on a budget. Just north of the city, with stylish rooms and easy access to Jesmond’s foodie scene.
YHA Newcastle Central
This hostel is a favourite for backpackers and groups; dorms and private rooms, plus a social vibe. You’re close to nightlife and train links.
easyHotel Newcastle
No-frills, clean, and right in the historic centre. Expect basics – but you can’t beat the price or location.
Albatross Hostel
Super central, great for solo travellers, and friendly staff. Beds run cheap and you’re walking distance to nearly everything worth seeing (and eating).
Mid-Range Accommodation in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Hotel du Vin Newcastle
Boutique hotel with a riverside feel, exposed brick, and a buzzy brasserie. Rooms are plush but not too pricey. Breakfasts are excellent.
Roomzzz Newcastle City
Apartment-style stays right by Central Station – great for longer visits or if you want your own kitchen. Modern, comfortable, and a five-minute walk to everywhere.
Grey Street Hotel
In the heart of Grainger Town, this boutique hotel has stylish rooms, comfy beds, and is walkable to everything. Loved for city breaks and staycations.
Kensington House Aparthotel
Classy apartments in a leafy Jesmond spot. Kitchenettes, parking, and close to Jesmond Food Market and cool bistros.
The Vermont Aparthotel
Views of the river, apartment comfort, and friendly staff. It feels both homey and a bit fancy. Nice for small groups or families.
Luxury Accommodation in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
The Vermont Hotel
Boutique luxury with art deco vibes, just steps from the Tyne Bridge. There’s a chic cocktail bar and well-appointed suites. Central but feels tucked-away.
Jesmond Dene House
Set in lush parkland but minutes from the centre, this feels like a country manor escape. Gardens, luxe rooms, and a stellar restaurant on-site.
Grey Street Hotel (Luxury Rooms)
Some rooms here are upgraded for extra luxury: deep tubs, city views, and plush bedding. Walking distance to the theatres, shopping, and restaurants.
Malmaison Newcastle
Warehouse-chic on the Quayside, Malmaison mixes urban cool with spa touches. Great for couples or anyone who loves a big breakfast and riverside walks.
Staybridge Suites Newcastle
Modern, sleek, and all-suite – ideal for longer trips or anyone who likes space. It’s super close to the Quayside and all the food you could want.
