Newcastle Upon Tyne, British, Modern Restaurant Guide

“Still ranking as the best overall restaurant in town” for many reporters – Terry Laybourne’s “consistently excellent” flagship – in several guises and at different addresses since 1988, and still one of the most commented-on destinations in town – “delivers every time”, with “exciting and appealing” brasserie-style cuisine and “staff who take a personal interest in customers”. “It’s as good for a business lunch, as an evening dinner or Sunday lunch”.

For “an outstanding all-round gastronomic experience” most reporters continue to acclaim Kenny Atkinson’s converted sixteenth-century former merchant’s townhouse on the Quayside as Newcastle’s No. 1 dining destination.

“Fun and delicious amuse bouche” accompany the “top class taster menu (unpredictable and beautifully prepared)” at Dave Coulson’s stylish venue in Jesmond, but there are also a wide variety of à la carte and prix fixe offerings from which to enjoy his deft modern British cuisine.

“You’re always welcomed back like long-lost friends” at this “reliable and fun” three-storey operation tucked away in the centre of town. The food is “consistently good” from a predominantly Italo-Mediterranean menu (although there’s the odd Thai or North African dish), but the stars of the show are the “wonderful staff” – “and children are adored, especially if they’re good eaters!”.

On the former site of Café 21 and Pan Haggerty, chef Troy Terrington is turning out contemporary food comparable to owner Andy Hook’s other two restaurants – Blackfriars and Hinnies. Service is willing, friendly and not stuffy and matches the ambience of the dining room and the pricing – which, given the quality of cooking, is excellent’.

A slice of Art Deco history – this “fantastic” café at the UK’s last surviving newsreel theatre has been a Newcastle institution for 80 years. It’s a “happy place, with a cheerful atmosphere and homely food” – “sometimes just tea and toast is ideal before a film”.

“A gorgeous spot for a great afternoon selection of treats” or “great-value breakfast”: Terry Laybourne’s boutique hotel makes a top destination, boosted by its “lovely setting” – “a grand dining room with spectacular views of Jesmond Dene”. For a more substantial meal it’s recommendable but with reservations: “good, sometimes great, but also often disappointing”.

“Andrew Wilkinson consistently produces meals bursting with flavour from first rate, locally sourced, ingredients” in the “unique setting” of this converted Victorian warehouse (part of the UK’s largest arts and crafts galleries): “a banker of a restaurant, with interesting monthly tasting menus and ‘fish Friday’ options”.