Tyne And Wear 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”.

Brothers Roberto & Walter Pani opened their “lovely” and “buzzy” favourite in 1995 – “a great-value Italian venue which rarely disappoints,” offering a “varied menu of high-standard” Sardinian and Italian classics. “Staff are very motivated”, while last year’s “successful refurbishment makes it brighter inside”.

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!”.