Newcastle Upon Tyne 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!”.

“It’s always busy but that only adds to experience” at this “cheap ’n’ cheerful”, “fantastically buzzy” Italian diner in Jesmond (where there are often queues). “Lovely food and fantastic value for money” ensure high loyalty amongst fans (“I’m still eating here 30 years later”).