Craving brunchy goodness this weekend? Discover three of the best brunch destinations in the heart of Jesmond serving up top food and stylish vibes.
Jesmond is one of my favourite places in Newcastle, probably because it holds a lot of nostalgia for me.
I lived there for two years, straight after graduating from uni in the mid 2000s. It was a desirable postcode back then, but I’d say this leafy suburb has even more to offer local residents and visitors now, especially on the foodie front.
If, like me, you love to kickstart your weekend with a spot of brunch, I’ve handpicked three of my favourite Jesmond cafes certain to satisfy those hunger pangs – and prettify your Instagram grid in the process!
BURDS
BURDS is a stylish cafe housed within a Grade II listed building on Burdon Terrace.
I would describe the interior as something straight from an ambient mocha-inspired mood board. Think mosaic tiles spelling out BURDS as you enter through the door, exposed brickwork, and the soft glow of low hanging lights.
Food-wise, you could say the cafe has garnered local ‘fame’ for one menu item in particular – The Muff, aka the cafe’s posh take on the classic McMuffin. (Search for it online to see this signature breakfast dish in all its glory!)
On my last visit, I went for bacon French toast while my boyfriend tucked into a rainbow-bright plate of avocado on toast with poached eggs on the side. My hot choc also arrived on a wooden platter. Cute.
BURDS has a petite outdoor terrace too, which I’ll definitely be eyeing up this summer.
Batch Bakery
If you like your brunch spots small and cosy with that unmistakeable hidden gem vibe, then Batch Bakery should be at the top of your list.
Situated on Clayton Road, this neighbourhood cafe is the place to go for scrummy pastries, sweet treats, pancakes and French toast. The menu also includes brunch-time favourites like eggs royale, sweetcorn fritters, and avo toast.
On one of my most recent visits, I went for the American pancakes with blueberry compote, lemon mascarpone and poppy seeds. The pancake-to-topping ratio was spot on – all very moreish!
And when your eyes wander across the room to the cafe’s display of giant croissants (which, I promise, is inevitable) – yes, you should most definitely buy one for later!
Arlo
Brentwood Avenue, a short walk from West Jesmond Metro, is home to a variety of eateries and independent shops – and Arlo is one of them.
This place has been a longstanding favourite with the local brunch crowd, and indicative of its popularity, when I last visited, they only had space for us to eat at the bar.
Inside, it has a distinct European vibe thanks to its Alpine-inspired decor, with antler chandeliers and an abundance of wood set against an earthy colour palette. Chalet-chic with a Geordie twist!
On the breakfast menu you’ll find the full English, warm Belgian waffles, Turkish eggs, and the ‘Hangover Hashbrown Hash’ among other brekkie staples.
Also, it’s worth mentioning that the cafe has not one but two outdoor spaces, both covered, heated and dog friendly.
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