With the new series of Emily in Paris debuting later this month, it’s time to arrange a rendezvous at these top spots in Newcastle to get your French-inspired food and drink fix. Outrageous attire and complicated love life – optional!
The French Quarter
Ever dined inside a railway arch? The French Quarter on Westgate Road offers exactly that! This intimate restaurant and wine bar serves a wide variety of French classics. Mix and match as you please from a selection of small plates, with highlights including boeuf bourguignon, escargots, ratatouille, and bavette à l’échalote.
Côte Brasserie
Bringing a little piece of Parisian chic to Newcastle, Côte Brasserie is a contemporary restaurant on the corner of Grainger Street. Go here to enjoy a cooked French brekkie, weekend sharing board, Champagne brunch or a great value fixed price menu, not to mention a unique wine list showcasing the very best vineyards across France.
Ophelia
Ophelia in South Gosforth describes itself as a ‘neighbourhood French bistro’ and it features in the latest edition of the prestigious Good Food Guide. It’s from the same people who brought us The Patricia in Jesmond, and its stand-out dish is undoubtedly the steak frites au poivre, available for just £18 on Thursday evenings and at Saturday lunchtimes.
Hibou Blanc
Hibou Blanc (which translates to ‘white owl’) is housed within a stunning Grade II listed building on High Bridge. Its elegant decor exudes all the classical French feels – think wood panelled walls, crystal chandeliers and white table cloths. On the menu, expect firm favourites such as steak, lobster, and herb-fed chicken accompanied by a luscious cocktail list.
The French Oven
An independent, artisan bakery inside the Grainger Market, you say? Yep, this is The French Oven, whose talented team of baking extraordinaires make everything from dainty macarons and scrumptious almond croissants to baguette sandwiches and French crusty buns.
St Vincent
St Vincent is a classy restaurant and wine bar on the Quayside, inspired by the relaxed neighbourhood bars of France and Italy. Alongside a delicious menu of small and big plates, you’ll also find one of the best wine lists in the city that champions small, independent producers.
The story goes, St Vincent was sent down to earth to visit the vineyards in France, as God was so unhappy with the wine in heaven!
Bistro du Vin
Bistro du Vin, set within the impressive Hotel du Vin on City Road, brings a relaxed, French bistro-style dining experience to hotel guests and local diners alike. For an authentic continental vibe, dine al fresco in the hotel’s enclosed courtyard and admire the building’s beautiful Edwardian architecture.
Monsieur Crepe
For all things creperie and sweet, make a date with Monsieur Crepe Cafe. Inspired by their holidays in the south of France – owners Marc and Gary make soft, buttery French crepes and other tempting treats and sandwiches from their nifty bolthole in High Heaton.
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