1. Olive & Bean
Starting off strong with a Newcastle classic situated in the heart of the city, adjacent to Grainger Market. If this is your first year and you don’t yet know about their ‘Olive & Breakfast’ menu yet, then prepare to get well acquainted. Their very generous portions for a low cost often sees a queue of people out the door, so be sure to wrap up warm! Oh, and take a took at their homemade cake stand on the way in too.
2. Super Natural
All vegan, all affordable, all delicious! As a vegetarian, I found this cafe in first year and quickly dragged my non-veggie boyfriend to try it with me and it has been our go to since! Just up from Central Station, this often overlooked café dishes up breakfast sandwiches and waffles for £7.99 in a homely atmosphere. A true must try for vegans and non-vegans alike!
3. The Camera Shop
I wasn’t aware of The Camera Shop until this year, and wish I had known of this beauty beforehand. A nondescript shop down the Quayside, I believe that this café might be one of the very last to honour the Geordie spirit in food and prices. Halloumi Sandwich? £4. Breakfast Toastie? £4.20. With limited space inside, I recommend getting the full brunch experience by finding a bench on the Quayside to eat on whilst fending off the pesky seagulls from also taking their share.
4. Aidan’s Kitchen
If you’ve been around Sandyford for any amount of time, Aidan’s Kitchen is probably a familiar and welcome sight. Despite some dishes being slightly more expensive than others on the list, this café is still pretty much always full up. With both basic breakfast staples and elevated dishes - think Eggs on Toast to Steak and Eggs - there’s something catered to everyone’s taste, but make sure to book in advance!