If you’re meeting up with your besties soon, these stylish city centre spots will set the scene for a good natter or heart-to-heart.

Once upon a time, my girly catch-ups centred around getting glammed up on a Saturday night and hitting Newcastle’s buzzing nightlife scene.

These days, though, my friends and I are after a more low key affair. We’re looking for that winning combination of great food and drinks, but still with an extra special vibe to make it feel like we’re stepping away from our everyday routines.

Usually, our non negotiables are 1. somewhere comfortable to sit and 2. somewhere we can talk without too much background noise.

Sound familiar?

I’ve rounded up five tried-and-tested spots that tick all the boxes and which might just be the perfect setting for your next get-together, too.

Flower Cafe

For scrummy sandwiches and Insta-worthy lattes, Flower Cafe on Grainger Street is a regular go-to for me and my friends. What’s especially handy is that it stays open late – until 11pm Wednesday to Saturday. And you can easily swap your cup of coffee for a cocktail, if that’s where your mood takes you!

Flower cafe

Société Café Bar

Cocktails and pizza – surely the ingredients for any great girly catch up? Société Café Bar on Grey Street is another late night spot that brings those European cafe culture vibes to the Toon. Its pizzas are delish, complemented by a good variety of coffees and cocktails. And when it’s warmer, you can sit outside and soak up some of the best street views in Newcastle.

Societe bar pizza

The Green Room

This elegant bar adjoins the Theatre Royal and oozes sophistication, making it perfect for a coffee and cake mate date. The upmarket backdrop really does make you feel like you’re properly ‘adulting’, but whether that’s reflected in your conversation is another matter!

The Green Room

Tiny Tiny

If you’re after a casual brunch with the gals, Tiny Tiny is a foodie hangout that serves up a more relaxed neighbourhood vibe, making you forget you’re in the bustling heart of Newcastle. Enjoy tasty dishes like Turkish eggs and Shakshuka while surrounded by an assortment of plant pots and twinkling festoon lights.

Tiny Tiny Newcastle

The Stack

If you’re looking for a livelier atmosphere that will effortlessly take you from day to night (or just day to home!) then The Stack on Pilgrim Street is your one-stop destination. Sing along to live music on the outdoor stage, tuck into street food, or retreat to a quieter corner in one of its swish cocktail bars – all without leaving the venue.

The Stack cocktail bar

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