- Play Hard
- 27th Jul 2024
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- 7 minutes
These are the highest-rated restaurants in the North East, according to OpenTable

Restaurant booking app OpenTable has analysed nearly 2 million global diner reviews over the past four months and categorised them by location.
The results for the highest-rated restaurants (listed on the app) across Newcastle and the North East are in… here are the top 10.

Branches, Jesmond
9 Osborne Rd, Jesmond, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE2 2AE
Coming in with five stars is Branches on Osborne Road in Jesmond.
Anyone who’s been will know that the vibes are modern and stylish – think white isle meets wisteria – with an atmosphere that suits anything from business lunches to romantic date nights and larger groups.
They also have a great prix fixe menu offering a three-course lunch for £27.95 or dinner for £33.95 on certain days (see website for details).
What the reviews say: Diners highly rate the Sunday lunches and praise how welcoming this high-end restaurant is to babies and children.

Ardallan Kitchen, Gateshead
The Stables, Ardallan, NE10 9NQ
This casual bistro in a converted Victorian stable in Felling has a beautiful courtyard with a cherry tree. This is one for breakfast, brunch or lunch.
As reflected in the reviews, the menu is inventive and generous and the attentive staff make visiting an enjoyable experience.
They also have Saturday brunch and afternoon tea events.
What the reviews say: Visitors love the sunny courtyard in good weather. They think the food is a little different and cooked beautifully—plus great desserts with generous portions.

Saltwater Fish Company, Newcastle
Fenwick Food Hall, Northumberland St, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 7AF
This small but perfectly formed Fish Bar and Fishmonger in Fenwick Food Hall has earned a top spot thanks to its high-quality food and unique dining experience.
The concept is straightforward – ‘they cook what they sell, and they sell what they cook.’ Simple yet creative cooking and friendly service.
It’s fun to interact with the chefs as they prepare your food, and for regular visitors, there’s an ever-changing specials board offering something new.
What the reviews say: A great eating experience in Newcastle that’s not to be missed.

Bouchon Bistro, Hexham
Gilesgate, Hexham, NE46 3NJ
This award-winning restaurant is located in the heart of Hexham town centre. It serves country-style French cuisine, including daily specials in the evening.
Born in the Loire Valley and with experience working in Michelin-starred restaurants across France, the owner is an expert when it comes to traditional French fare.
What the reviews say: The staff here are super friendly and welcoming. Guests didn’t feel rushed and really enjoyed the experience.

Soho Korean and Japanese Street Food, Newcastle
14 Leazes Park Rd, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 4PF
As the name suggests, Soho specialises in Korean and Japanese food, with a concept focussing on small plates including robata grill, sushi and seafood (large plates are also available).
Big flavours and great presentation are the priority – as well as a warm welcome from staff. Many reviewers mentioned that it’s a great spot to eat alone as well as with others thanks to the relaxed atmosphere.
What the reviews say: This restaurant is loved by solo diners. The seafood pancake is highly recommended, and staff are friendly and attentive.

The French Quarter, Newcastle
Arch 6 Westgate Rd, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 1SA
A relaxed neighbourhood restaurant and wine bar, French Quarter is run by a team that is passionate about the good things in life—from wine to conversation.
The restaurant’s concept is born out of a desire to challenge perceptions that French dining is formal or fussy and offer a menu that changes regularly to reflect the seasonal produce available.
What the reviews say: Diners love the sharing plates. They say the atmosphere is great and they love the enthusiasm of the staff.

No.59 Restaurant @ Townhouse Morpeth, Morpeth
59 Bridge St, Morpeth, NE61 1PQ
Situated in a charismatic mid-1800s building overlooking the River Wansbeck, No. 59 is just as suitable for a coffee with friends as it is for a fine dining experience.
Like the other restaurants in this list, it has consistently high reviews from diners who rate it for the excellent food, service and ambience.
What the reviews say: Considered a real 5-star restaurant.

Vercelli Restaurant, Hexham
36-38 Priestpopple, Hexham, NE46 1PQ
Another highly rated venue for Hexham, Vercelli is a family-run Italian restaurant which has been modernised over the last four years.
The executive chef sources the finest Italian produce to create Italian dishes with a twist, and there’s also a small cocktail bar at the front of the restaurant that hosts live music nights regularly.
What the reviews say: It offers a warm welcome and a lovely seating area out the back. The kid’s menu is great, and the value is good.

21, Newcastle
One Trinity Gardens, Pandon, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 2HH
Another Terry Laybourne restaurant hitting the list is 21. Smart but not stuffy, 21 is about eating good food in comfortably stylish surroundings.
The chefs produce stylish and imaginative dishes that don’t pander to trends. Instead, they focus on seasonal ingredients cooked well.
The restaurant offers lots of different ways to enjoy 21, including lunch and early evening prix fixe menus and five-course seasonal experiences.
What the reviews say: This is a fantastic spot to take friends who are visiting the region, as the quality is consistently good.

The Broad Chare, Newcastle
25 Broad Chare, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 3DQ
A true gastropub, Broad Chare has stripped wood floors, high bar stools, painted brickwork, and a polished oak bar. Downstairs, there is a traditional pub-style area or bar where you can enjoy a drink and snack.
Upstairs is the restaurant, offering an elevated pub grub menu – the scotch egg is a real favourite.
What the reviews say: Guests return time and time again to enjoy the menu and Sunday lunch.
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