But the longer you stay in the North East, the more you learn about the insanely good independent food and drink scene here. This is a comprehensive list of some of the best restaurants, bars and activities you can find in the city.
Dabbawal - ££
Go for: The food
Open from: April 12th
Dabbawal is an outstandingly authentic Indian street food kitchen, with a great menu selection.
97&Social - £
Go for: The cocktails
Open from: April 12th
Great music, exceptional cocktails, and good craic, there’s a reason this Osborne Road venue is so popular – I would highly recommend booking in advance.
Cake Stories - ££
Go for: The coffee
Open from: Now (for takeaway)
Got a sweet tooth? Go for their signature square bakes and pair it with a massive caramel latte.
Jesmond Dene - Free!
Go for: The scenery
Open from: Now!
It’s pretty rare to have such a peaceful, scenic park planted in walking distance of the city centre. Go for the waterfalls, stay for the dogs.
Horticulture - ££
Go for: The brunch
Available from: April 12th (also taking orders for delivery)
Two words: CHORIZO. HASH.
Blackfriars - £££
Go for: The meat
Open from: April 12th
This one is for the high rollers: an exceptional dining experience set in a restored 13th century friary. One of my favourite restaurants.
Market Shaker - £
Go for: The vibes
Open from: April 12th
Market shaker has cheap drinks and good vibes, as well as a huge outdoor, covered space to relax in.
Special mention: Mother Mercy - ££
Go for: The cocktails
Open from: May 17th
You’ll have to wait a little while longer before you can bask in the perfect atmosphere created by this basement bar. But, I wanted to include it because it is THE best bar in Newcastle right now, and I’m obsessed.
Backyard Bike Shop, By-The-River Brew Co - ££
Go for: The coffee
Open from: April 12th
The coffee here is amazing, the views of the river are amazing; what more could you ask for?
Quayside Sunday Markets – Free
Go for: The shopping
Open from: April/May
It’s likely the weekly markets will reopen with shops on April 12th. Try buying each other a cute little gift to remember each other by!
The Baltic Gallery – Free
Go for: The culture
Open from: May 17th
The Baltic has it all: contemporary art, a cosy café, and an extraordinary viewing deck. Plus, the gift shop sells those tiny plastic hands.
The Ship Inn - ££
Go for: The vegan food
Open from: April 12th
Built in 1878, The Ship Inn has a phenomenal selection of vegan foods – my personal recommendation is their lucky “fish” and chips.
The Tyne Bar - ££
Go for: The craft beer
Open from: April 12th
The Tyne Bar offers great beer in a gorgeous setting, overlooking the River Tyne.
Ernest - ££
Go for: The brunch
Open from: April 12th
The hash bowls at Ernest are the Pièce de resistance – available from 10am. Book in advance!
The Valley Bouldering Centre - £
Go for: The workout
Open from: 12th April (hopefully!)
This one is for the sporty couples: there’s nothing like a bit of competition to spice up a date.
Longsands Fish Kitchen - £
Go for: The food
Open from: Now (takeaway only)
Get your fish and chips to-go, and take a short stroll to the Priory to enjoy with a view of the North Sea.
Head of Steam - ££
Go for: The beer
Open from: April 12th
Head of Steam always teams a great selection of drinks with music, live sports, and good vibes.
Surf Café - £
Go for: The coffee
Open from: April 12th
A “small but mighty” café that remains one of the best establishments on the coast. I would highly recommend making the breakfast service before 2:15pm.
Longsands Beach – Free!
Go for: The sea air
Open from: Now!
Longsands is the best of the many beaches that stretch along the Tynemouth coast. Spend your afternoon strolling or swimming, and you can even book a 2 hour surf lesson from Longsands Surf school for £30.
Featured image: @marketshakernewcastle on Instagram.