In the enchanting realm of North East England, a kaleidoscope of culinary masterpieces awaits, seducing the senses and beguiling the taste buds. This gastronomic wonderland, bathed in rich history and brimming with vibrant local culture, is blossoming into a renowned oasis for gourmands seeking to embark on an unforgettable epicurean adventure. Each enticing aroma leads to a series of award-winning dining establishments where skilled culinary masters showcase their prowess using the region’s finest, ethically-sourced ingredients.
Prepare to embark on a journey of pure sensory delight, unveiling the hidden treasures of North East England’s top 9 restaurants to visit and etching memories that will linger long after the last morsel has been savoured.
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House of Tides
Embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure at the House of Tides, a gleaming gem nestled within Newcastle’s vibrant Quayside. Housed in an enchanting Grade 1 listed building that stands regally beneath the majestic High-Level Bridge, this Michelin-starred sanctuary of gastronomic delight is the city’s crowning glory. As you step into the hallowed halls of the House of Tides, prepare to be transported through time within its richly textured walls that whisper tales of a storied past.
This distinguished establishment has gracefully held its esteemed Michelin star since 2015, a testament to its unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. In 2022, the House of Tides etched its name in the annals of the National Restaurant Awards, claiming the 14th spot amongst the top 100 UK restaurants—an unparalleled accolade for a North East dining destination. Allow yourself to be swept away by the allure of this culinary haven, and savor the exquisite flavors that await you at the House of Tides.
Hjem, Northumberland
Venture into the enchanting heart of Northumberland, where the ethereal Hjem awaits, a culinary oasis nestled amidst the idyllic Tyne Valley. A mere 35-minute drive from the bustling center of Newcastle, Hjem beckons you to embark on a mesmerizing journey that melds the essence of Scandinavian flair with the verdant bounty of the Northumberland countryside.
Prepare to be entranced by a symphony of delicate bites and sumptuous creations, each meticulously prepared with the precision and finesse of Scandinavian culinary mastery. A trailblazer in its own right, Hjem proudly wears the mantle of being Northumberland’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, a testament to its unwavering dedication to culinary excellence.
Raby Hunt
Embrace the exquisite allure of Raby Hunt, a two-star Michelin gem nestled in the heart of Durham that reigns supreme as the North East’s premier gastronomic sanctuary. Envision yourself being whisked away on a captivating journey as you indulge in a 15-course tasting menu that dazzles the senses with its global inspirations and breathtaking visual artistry, each dish a harmonious symphony of explosive flavors.
Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Raby Hunt’s historic abode, a tranquil haven that has stood proudly for over two centuries. Bask in the warm embrace of luxury as you extend your culinary odyssey to encompass breakfast, lunch, and dinner, savoring the highest echelons of gastronomic delight while enveloped in the building’s idyllic atmosphere.
Fuego
Discover the vibrant pulse of Fuego, a culinary jewel nestled within the illustrious walls of Fenwick, Newcastle’s legendary department store. Here, in a modern and ambient sanctuary, the soul of the Mediterranean comes to life as you savor a delectable array of tapas, masterfully infused with the essence of authentic Italian and Spanish charcuterie.
Let your senses be enchanted by the perfect fusion of fashion, luxury, and gastronomy as you wander through the iconic shopping destination, exploring a treasure trove of designer collections, sumptuous makeup, and elegant homeware. Then, surrender to the irresistible call of Fuego, where you can unwind and bask in the glow of a tantalizing meal that celebrates the finest culinary traditions of the sun-kissed Mediterranean.
Blackfriars
Enter the realm of Blackfriars, a spellbinding award-winning restaurant nestled within a 13th-century medieval friary at the pulsating heart of Newcastle. Be transported back in time as you indulge in an unforgettable fine dining experience and sumptuous afternoon teas.
This culinary gem celebrates traditional British cuisine crafted from the freshest local and seasonal ingredients, handpicked from neighbouring lands and bustling markets. With a storied past that includes Dominican origins dating back to 1239, a stint as an inner-city monastery, and the distinction of being the oldest dining room in the UK, Blackfriars is a time capsule of unparalleled charm.
Colmans Seafood Temple
Embrace the allure of Colmans Seafood Sanctuary, a family-focused seafood haven presenting the most exquisite local fare, nestled gracefully on the sun-kissed shores of the North East coast.
Immerse yourself in the seasonal splendor of Colmans’ finest offerings, as each dish is expertly crafted using the freshest fish and shellfish sourced directly from the skilled hands of local fishermen. As you dine, allow your gaze to wander across the breathtaking, panoramic vistas of the majestic coastline, enveloped in an atmosphere that hums with both relaxation and vibrancy.
Riley’s Fish Shack
Imagine stepping into a breathtaking, coastal culinary oasis: welcome to the enchanting world of Riley’s Fish Shack. As the salty breeze brushes your skin, the aroma of freshly caught fish and seafood grilling over a roaring charcoal fire entices your senses. This magical haven is nestled within the warm embrace of the imposing cliffs of King Edwards Bay, where the sun-kissed golden sands dance at your feet.
The enchanting experience that Riley’s Fish Shack offers is more than just a meal; it’s a journey to the heart of the ocean’s bounty, accompanied by the soothing symphony of crashing waves and the mesmerizing dance of the eternal tides.
STACK at Seaburn
Welcome to the whimsical world of STACK, an enchanting shipping container village where a kaleidoscope of tantalizing street food, exhilarating live entertainment, and charming retail experiences await. Picture a bustling mosaic of shipping containers artfully repurposed into vibrant eateries and cozy boutiques, each inviting you to embark on a sensory adventure like no other.
Allow yourself to be swept up in the electric atmosphere of this extraordinary venue, where the air is infused with the harmonious symphony of laughter, conversation, and the enticing sizzle of mouthwatering dishes. The culinary delights at STACK are a veritable global feast, transporting your taste buds on a gastronomic journey through the rich and diverse flavors of Mexico, Italy, India, and Greece.
The Dining Room at Seaham Hall
Step into the enchanting realm of The Dining Room, an exquisite culinary sanctuary nestled on the edge of the picturesque North East coast, where Durham’s finest dining experiences await. As you enter, the subtle elegance of the ambience envelops you, whispering tales of the region’s rich gastronomic heritage. Here, each sumptuous dish is a masterpiece, lovingly crafted by a talented ensemble of culinary virtuosos who pride themselves on using only the finest and freshest regional produce. With every bite, you’ll savour the passion and dedication that goes into creating these remarkable culinary tapestries.
The ingredients that grace your plate are sourced from the verdant fields and azure waters of the region, selected with care and precision from a hand-picked cadre of trusted suppliers. This commitment to the locality, freshness, and ethical sourcing infuses each dish with an unmistakable authenticity, transforming your meal into a celebration of the North East’s abundant bounty.
