A Taste of Tradition: Newcastle’s Classic Dishes
Forget the brown ale stereotypes; Newcastle is a burgeoning foodie destination, bursting with flavors that will surprise and delight even the most discerning palate. This vibrant city, known for its iconic bridges, friendly Geordie spirit, and lively nightlife, is also home to a culinary scene that’s rapidly gaining recognition. Are you ready to dive into the best food Newcastle has to offer? This article will be your guide, exploring the diverse culinary landscape, from traditional Northern fare to innovative modern cuisine, providing recommendations for both tourists and locals alike looking to experience the true taste of Newcastle.
To truly understand Newcastle’s food scene, you must first delve into its culinary heritage. Forget fancy foams and molecular gastronomy for a moment, and let’s appreciate the comforting simplicity of Geordie grub, dishes that have sustained generations and are steeped in local history.
First on the menu is the Singin’ Hinnie. These aren’t your average pancakes; they are a type of griddle cake, cooked on a hot, flat griddle, traditionally made with flour, butter, lard, baking soda, and dried currants. The “singin'” part comes from the sound the mixture makes as it cooks on the hot girdle. Expect a buttery, slightly sweet flavor with a delightful crispy edge. For an authentic experience, head to The French Oven on the Grainger Market. This institution has been baking up Geordie delights for decades, and their Singin’ Hinnies are legendary. Locals often enjoy them warm, spread with butter or a dollop of jam. The history of the Singin’ Hinnie is tied to the working class of Newcastle, providing a quick and affordable energy boost.
Next up is Pease Pudding. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Pea pudding? Really?” Trust me on this one. This humble dish is made from boiled split peas, water, and a bit of seasoning. The result is a dense, earthy, and surprisingly flavorful spread. Traditionally, it’s served with ham, bacon, or gammon, and is often accompanied by a stottie cake (more on that later!). Redhouse on the Quayside serves an excellent version, perfectly complementing their hearty portions of ham. Pease Pudding has long been associated with the coal mining communities of the North East, providing a cheap and nutritious meal for hard-working miners.
Speaking of accompaniments, let’s talk about the Stottie Cake. This isn’t your delicate, light sponge cake; this is a flat, round bread, often about a foot in diameter, with a distinctive dimple in the middle. The texture is soft and slightly chewy, making it perfect for sandwiches or soaking up gravy. You’ll find stottie cakes in most bakeries across Newcastle, but Greggs, although a national chain, does a decent version readily available. The stottie cake was traditionally used for miners’ lunches. It was big and dense enough to survive being transported in a bag without being squashed.
And if you are in Newcastle during the colder months, be sure to check out Pan Haggerty, a dish consisting mainly of sliced potatoes, onions, and cheese baked in an oven. It is another humble yet comforting dish that Newcastle does well.
Elevated Eats: Newcastle’s Fine Dining Scene
While Newcastle embraces its traditional fare, it’s also a city that celebrates culinary innovation. A wave of talented chefs has transformed the fine dining landscape, creating restaurants that are both sophisticated and welcoming.
Let’s first talk about House of Tides. This Michelin-starred restaurant, located on the historic Quayside, is owned and run by Chef Kenny Atkinson. House of Tides showcases modern British cuisine with a strong emphasis on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The ambiance is sophisticated yet relaxed, with exposed brick walls and views of the River Tyne. The tasting menu is a culinary journey, featuring innovative dishes that are both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. While the price range is definitely on the higher end, a visit to House of Tides is an experience that will be remembered long after the last bite. The meticulous attention to detail and the chef’s passion for showcasing the best of the region make it truly special.
Moving on, let’s talk about Peace and Loaf. This Jesmond-based restaurant, headed by MasterChef: The Professionals finalist Dave Coulson, offers a modern and inventive take on British cuisine. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with stylish decor and a lively buzz. The menu features creative dishes that are designed to be shared, encouraging diners to sample a variety of flavors. Highlights include their innovative tasting menus and beautifully presented desserts. The price range is moderate to high, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion or a memorable night out. The restaurant’s commitment to using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, combined with Chef Coulson’s creative flair, makes it a standout in Newcastle’s fine dining scene.
Lastly, we have Route. Situated in the heart of the city, Route presents a contemporary dining experience with a focus on refined British cuisine. The restaurant is renowned for its tasting menus, which allow guests to explore the breadth of their culinary talent. The ambiance is elegant and intimate, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a sophisticated gathering. The emphasis on high-quality ingredients and impeccable presentation ensures a memorable dining experience. While the price point reflects the quality and service, Route offers excellent value for those seeking a top-tier culinary adventure in Newcastle.
A World of Flavors: International Cuisine in Newcastle
Newcastle’s culinary tapestry is woven with threads from across the globe. From spicy curries to delicate sushi, the city offers a diverse range of international flavors to tantalize your taste buds.
When it comes to Indian cuisine, Dabbawal stands out. With locations across Newcastle, Dabbawal offers an authentic taste of South Asian street food. The menu is packed with flavorful dishes, from classic curries to inventive wraps and snacks. Try their railway lamb curry, a rich and aromatic dish with tender lamb, or their vada pav, a spicy potato fritter served in a bread roll. The price range is incredibly reasonable, making it a great option for a casual meal or a takeaway treat. Dabbawal’s commitment to using fresh ingredients and authentic recipes makes it a local favorite.
For Italian food, look no further than Cal’s Own. This award-winning pizzeria on Holly Avenue West serves up Neapolitan-style pizzas that are considered by many to be the best in the city. The pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a perfectly charred crust and a deliciously smoky flavor. Try their Margherita, a classic combination of tomato, mozzarella, and basil, or their Diavola, a spicy pizza with pepperoni and chili. Cal’s Own offers a relaxed and informal dining experience, perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.
If East Asian cuisine is what you are after, St. Sushi in China Town is a hidden gem that offers fresh and authentic sushi. With a wide range of sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes, it’s a great destination for those looking for a taste of Japan in Newcastle.
For Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, Babuji on the Quayside is always a hit. With dishes like kebabs, shawarma and falafel, it’s hard to go wrong. Their baba ganoush is another hit.
Grab & Go: Casual Eats in Newcastle
Sometimes, you just want a quick and tasty bite without the fuss of a formal dining experience. Newcastle has you covered with a plethora of casual eateries and street food vendors offering everything from gourmet burgers to authentic tacos.
For the ultimate burger experience, head to Meat Stack. This burger joint has quickly become a Newcastle institution, known for its juicy, American-style burgers made with high-quality beef. Try their French Canadian burger, topped with poutine, bacon, and maple syrup. The price range is moderate, offering great value for the quality and portion sizes. Meat Stack’s commitment to using premium ingredients and its no-nonsense approach to burger making have made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
For pizza, Scream for Pizza is the place to be. This pizzeria offers New York-style pizzas with creative toppings and a perfectly crispy crust. Their “Hot Mess” pizza, topped with spicy salami, jalapenos, and a drizzle of hot honey, is a must-try. Scream for Pizza provides a vibrant and energetic dining experience, perfect for a casual meal or a late-night snack.
Newcastle’s street food scene is also thriving, with a variety of food trucks and markets popping up across the city. Check out the Quayside Market on Sundays for a diverse range of street food vendors offering everything from gourmet burgers to international cuisine. Food trucks are also prevalent around the city center and the universities.
Sweet Endings: Newcastle’s Best Desserts
No culinary journey is complete without a sweet ending. Newcastle boasts a delightful array of cafes and dessert shops, offering everything from decadent cakes to artisanal ice cream.
Quilliam Brothers, with locations throughout the city, are the go-to place for coffee, cake, and brunch. The cafes have a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making them perfect for a casual catch-up with friends or a solo study session. Their cakes are freshly baked and come in a variety of flavors, from classic Victoria sponge to decadent chocolate fudge. The coffee is also top-notch, made with locally roasted beans.
For artisanal ice cream, Mark Toney’s is a must-visit. This local institution has been serving up delicious ice cream for generations. Try their classic vanilla or their signature honeycomb flavor. The ice cream is made with fresh, local ingredients, ensuring a creamy and flavorful treat.
Finally, don’t forget to visit Pink Lane Bakery, which offers a wide range of baked goods. It’s an ideal place for grabbing cakes and pastry for dessert!
A Delicious Journey
From traditional Geordie fare to innovative modern cuisine, Newcastle’s culinary landscape offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, Newcastle’s best restaurants and eateries are sure to tantalize your taste buds. So, grab your appetite and embark on a culinary adventure in Newcastle! From hearty traditional dishes like Singin’ Hinnies and Pease Pudding to upscale dining experiences at House of Tides and Peace and Loaf, Newcastle showcases a perfect blend of culinary heritage and innovation. International flavors at Dabbawal and Cal’s Own add another layer to the city’s vibrant food scene. Casual eats like Meat Stack and Scream for Pizza offer quick, tasty bites, while sweet endings at Quilliam Brothers and Mark Toney’s provide the perfect conclusion to any meal. Now, tell us your favorite spots in the comments below and let us know your experiences!
