Eat your way around the world without leaving Newcastle with this handpicked selection of local restaurants serving must-try global cuisines.
It’s time to take your tastebuds on a culinary trip around the world, all thanks to my mini guide to Newcastle’s diverse international food scene.
Of course, there are lots of other restaurants and cuisines to try across the city (there’s still plenty on my own eating out hit list!) but if you’re looking to discover new dishes and flavours, this blog post is a deliciously good place to start.
Spanish: Boquerones
For rustic Spanish vibes, you can’t go wrong with Boquerones on Heaton Road. As you’d expect, there’s a variety of fish, meat and veggie dishes to choose from, all showcasing the very best of traditional and modern tapas. Their sangria is by far the fruitiest and most glug-worthy I’ve drank in Newcastle, too!
Argentinian: Gaucho
Argentinian steakhouse, Gaucho, is located on Market Street, and its classy, elegant decor makes it the perfect destination for a special occasion or date night. Choose from a selection of prime cuts of beef alongside seafood dishes and vegetarian options, not to mention a premium Argentinian wine list.
Greek: Kafeneon
A Bigg Market favourite – Kafeneon plates up some of the city’s best Greek food. This cosy townhouse restaurant is spread over three floors (with outdoor seating available in the summer) and it serves the most delicious gyros, souvlaki and pita dishes. Consistently top notch!
Mexican: Little Lobo
Described as a laidback taqueria, Little Lobo is hidden away in Sandyford, and it’s the place to go for Californian-inspired Mexican cuisine. Think tacos, nachos, burritos, quesadillas, ensaladas, cocktails and margaritas – an insanely good menu packed with flavourful food and drinks.
Indian: My Delhi
My Delhi has been a longstanding favourite of mine. The interior of this Clayton Street restaurant is funky and bright, with ‘windows’ peering into a bustling street scene in Delhi. Plus, its Sunday Bottomless Curry Club is your ticket to 90 minutes of ‘naan-stop’ food for just £25 per person.
Japanese: Butakun
Tempted by the thought of tucking into sushi, donburi or ramen? Butakun, located on Percy Street, is a Japanese restaurant serving all these dishes and more. Inside, the setting is contemporary yet unfussy, and it’s just across the road from Haymarket Metro and bus stations.
Italian: Liosis
Located in Heaton, Liosis is a Sicilian restaurant with a terrazza overlooking the ground floor dining area, and its menu reflects the rich history of this Mediterranean island’s cuisine. It’s one of only a handful of restaurants locally that reminds me of my travels across Italy – and I don’t make that kind of statement lightly!
French: The French Quarter
If dining inside a railway arch while enjoying classic French cuisine sounds like your dream dining out destination, then say ‘bonjour’ to The French Quarter on Westgate Road. This intimate restaurant serves a selection of small plates, with highlights including boeuf bourguignon, escargots, ratatouille, and bavette à l’échalote.
Korean: Mannaza
Laying claim to being Newcastle’s only traditional Korean BBQ restaurant, Mannaza can be found on Monk Street, behind The Gate. On the menu, you’ll find authentic barbecue, hotpot, rice and noodle dishes, alongside soup and Korean stews. Grilling your own hot pan dishes at the table also adds to the experience!
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