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The new under-the-radar restaurants in the North East worth knowing about

From Sunderland’s first seafood restaurant that’s making waves to a go-to luxury dining experience perfect for any special occasion, here are the newest restaurants in Newcastle, Gateshead and Sunderland.

Written by Rachael Nichol
Published 17.01.2023

EVA ROSE

Grey Street, Newcastle

Ok, we know this isn’t a new opening, but Leila Lily’s never fails to impress. Known for bringing style and glamour to Grey Street, now the pretty late-night bar has expanded following its launch of a new private dining and events room. Set to be the ‘go-to’ place for special occasions and events, the new intimate dining area opened on the lower floor is extravagantly decorated featuring bespoke wallpapers, intricately patterned soft furnishings and, of course, florals.

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GROUNDED KITCHEN

Metrocentre, Gateshead

As it’s a new year and we’re all trying to be a bit more health-conscious, Grounded Kitchen is well worth a visit. Serving a range of healthy Korean dishes, the menu will feature only the finest of feel-good food featuring dishes including Korean lettuce wrap, Korean bao buns and nourish bowls which are made up of marinaded vegetables, rice, and a choice of meat, fish, or a vegetarian option. The perfect new spot to eat out without feeling guilty.

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OPHELIA  

South Gosforth, Newcastle

From the team who brought us The Patricia, this new neighbourhood brasserie in Gosforth is opening its doors on 28th January and we’re already counting down the days. Serving ‘thoughtful comfort food’ and with over 100 wines inspired by a love for France, here you can only expect to be served the finest of French food and flavours from its à la carte menu. We’re talking steak au poivre, Toulouse sausage with pomme puree and black truffle and dauphinoise potato pithivier.

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NORTH

Seaburn, Sunderland

Sunderland’s first seafood restaurant is already making waves following a £250k transformation of a disused storage shelter. Although there are plenty of chippies on Seaburn’s seafront, you won’t be able to find a restaurant that serves delicate seafood dishes – until now. With sea bream, tomato and fennel broth, crispy squid with ancho chilli and lime rouille dip and flank steak, chimichurri and grilled vegetables on the menu, you’re really spoilt for choice from the seafood small plates that all have big flavour infusions. 

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THALI TRAY

Bealim House, Newcastle 

For those of you who were heartbroken at Thali Tray, Ouseburn’s, closure, we have good news – it’s back. And this time in a swanky new spot inside Bealim House. The Indian street food restaurant with gastropub vibes offers a full menu of scrumptious spicy dishes including pork belly vindaloo, chickpea chole and chilli cheese garlic naan. But what makes this restaurant unique is how each main is served in quirky dinner Thali trays that are perfect for the ‘gram.

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