Since this is only my second blog post, I thought I’d talk about something fresh in my mind. I have recently moved back home after living in Newcastle for 3 years, and I can safely say I am already missing the food scene in the toon. When starting at Newcastle Uni I created myself a restaurant bucket list, which over the years just got bigger and bigger, so I have picked a few of what have become my favourite places to eat.
Lola Jeans
Whenever anyone came to visit me at Newcastle, it was always Lola Jeans for tea. Its got the perfect balance between good food, cool atmosphere, and you can dress up or down depending on the occasion. They also allow dogs which is always a bonus! I’d say this is a little pricier than some places (especially as a student) but worth it for a special occasion (or if the parents are paying!). I seem to have got myself stuck in the rut of not being able to order anything other than their James P Sullivan Burger, but with 4 of their burgers winning the Battle of the Burger competition since 2015, you’re not going to be stuck for choice. Or if you don’t fancy a burger, they have a sandwich a taco menu, sharing platters worth drooling over, and even a #KeepItClean menu for anyone wanting to stay healthy and avoid the often inevitable ‘food-baby’ look on your night out. After much (3 years) deliberation, this is hands down my favourite ‘tea’ spot in Newcastle.
Shijo
If you’re a student in Newcastle and haven’t had a Shijo yet, you’re doing it wrong. Based in Haymarket metro station, you’ll struggle to travel anywhere without getting a whiff of this Japanese joint. You’ll also find them in both Newcastle and Northumbria Uni now, so you’re never too far from a Katsu Curry. Shijo is the answer to all your problems; Hungry? Shijo. Bad lecture? Shijo. Hungover? Shijo. A satisfying meal with change back from £6 is why Shijo is marked as my favourite lunch spot in Newcastle.
Dispensary
This baby of the toon hasn’t been around for long but has escalated into one of the best places to get your sweet fix. Situated right underneath The View student accommodation near St James’ Park, it’s a student’s dream; minimal walking for maximum satisfaction. Their scientific edge transforms this café into an Instagrammers paradise featuring titration experiment coffee, colour changing tea, disappearing candyfloss hot chocolate and so many more creations. They don’t only satisfy the sweet tooth but have just as yummy savoury dishes also. With their menu constantly changing and improving you won’t want to decide what you’re having before you step through the door (yes we all do it). I’ve heard that they’ve recently branched out to the Stack, which leads me onto another of my favourite foodie spots of the toon…
The Stack
The stack is another fairly recent addition to the city, and like nowhere I’ve been before. It’s more than just a food joint, they offer the whole experience of drinking, eating and entertainment in the confines of metal storages containers making it the place to be in Newcastle at the moment. You will find people of all walks of life here, anything goes; student meetups, family trips out, date nights, hen and stag do’s the lot. This indoor-outdoor spot offers 11 different food experiences (my favourite being Hatch, specifically their duck loaded fries!!!) so that’s 11 different reasons to go if you ask me.
Out for tea with Lucy 