The city is home to an extensive collection of renowned, local restaurants and food institutions, including Grainger Market, which showcases international flavours amongst Geordie classics all under one roof. Newcastle’s food scene is undeniably varied, but local specialities can’t be missed, especially if you’re finding yourself in the Toon for the first time!
Greggs is without question a Newcastle institution, filling the bellies of hungry Geordies and beyond for 85 years
Most notable for its large variety of filled pastry joys, Greggs is probably one of Newcastle’s most famous namesakes. It was founded in 1939 and the first branch opened in Gosforth in 1951. It has since cemented itself in the city’s heart now boasting 33 branches coming only second to Glasgow for the most branches up and down the country. Greggs is without question a Newcastle institution, filling the bellies of hungry Geordies and beyond for 85 years. Don’t miss the chance for a post-night-out sausage roll at Bigg Market or cheap pastry goodness at the outlet store on Westgate Road.
Stotties have also played a key role in Newcastle and the North East’s relationship with food for many years. Originating from the Geordie term "to stott" or "to bounce" stotties were created as a hearty, portable lunch for workers in the 19th century. These large, spongy breadcakes have stood the test of time and are still found in bakeries across the city today. For a true Geordie taste, try filling them with ham and pease pudding, another North East speciality made of boiled lentils or peas. Alternatively, a chip stottie with batter scraps can’t be missed during a trip to the coast.
A local rival to Greggs, Dicksons bakers have been serving mince pies along with other baked goods since 1953. The chain isn’t a nationwide one and as a Sheffield girl, I had never heard of their infamous " Saveloy Dips" until moving to the North East. A bread roll slathered in saveloy sausage, stuffing, pease pudding and mustard and then dipped in gravy, it may not be the best vegetarian option on our Geordie menu, but it sure has great Freshers' Week hangover-curing potential.
Last but certainly not least, the Newcastle blue star shines bright above many of the city's best-loved pubs, but not everyone knows that this is an ode to the famous Newcastle Brown Ale. Launched in 1927 and affectionately known by locals as "Broon" it is well known as the first official sponsor of the Magpies, but its biscuity, smooth taste was popular with locals many years beforehand. If you fancy a change from your favourite lager, pop a bottle or two in the fridge and wait till the star on the back turns blue, ensuring you’ve got the perfect temperature to enjoy this local legend.
