Newcastle Upon Tyne, British, Traditional Restaurant Guide

“The building is so historic” – an “ancient” thirteenth-century friar’s rectory that claims to be the UK’s oldest dining room – it helps make for a good occasion at Andy and Sam Hook’s restaurant, events venue and cookery school. The “reliable, locally sourced” cooking from a bistro/brasserie style menu (from nut-roast to sirloin steak) also rates a favourable mention.

“A great pub beautifully located on the Newcastle quayside near Live Theatre”, with “fantastic bar food, a class above other pubs and a cask beer selection to match” – “the upstairs restaurant is also very popular”. This is a “consistently top-notch establishment” which provides a “great all-round drinking and dining experience” – but be warned: it can be “noisy”.