10 Quirky Restaurants in Newcastle and Gateshead

Famed for its lively nightlife and fantastic foodie scene - Newcastle has an abundance of restaurants to suit all tastebuds making it a must-visit destination for foodies! 

Narrowing down your options can be tough if you're staying in Newcastle for a short city break or you want to impress visiting friends. Read on for our guide to the quirkier places to eat out in the region. From the prettiest Instagrammable bars and eateries to Newcastle's quirky restaurants in unusual settings - why not choose a more unique dining experience when you're next in the toon?

Discover our recommendations for 10 quirky restaurants in Newcastle and Gateshead...

Situated inside a 13th century priory, Blackfriars Restaurant and Parlour Bar lays claim to being the 'oldest dining hall in the UK.' The building's history dates back to 1239 when Dominican Friars first established home at Blackfriars; the location was also regularly frequented by King Henry III who stayed at the Priory on numerous occasions. 

In modern times, Blackfriars, which is one of Newcastle's best restaurants, is an independently-run and atmospheric fine-dining restaurant and bar which also provides a range of events such as their unique medieval banquet experiences. 

Step into the maddest bar in Newcastle. The Mad House offers a unique bar experience that's funky, quirky and full of surprises. From their fishbowl cocktails, to their 'Council tapas' sharing board served at bottomless brunch, you're in for an unforgettable experience - that's for sure! 

With locations on both Pink Lane and Dean Street, let the madness commence.

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Portofino is one of the last remaining traditional Italian family-run restaurants remaining in the city! Found within a stunning Victorian Grade II listed building, Portofino is a brilliant option for visitors to the city. The menu is very reasonably priced and it serves up a fantastic range of pasta, gnocchi and risotto dishes as well as pizzas and calzone. If it’s fresh and authentic Italian cuisine you’re after then look no further.

You asked for quirky bars and restaurants in Newcastle, how about WC - located in a renovated Victorian public toilet? The building, which dates back to 1898, can be found in the popular Bigg Market and was once the public loos within the bustling market square. Over a century later and the renovated space is now a quirky and contemporary, underground bar serving up a variety of wine, fizz and signature cocktails within its small but perfectly formed walls. 

Cook House is everything you'd want from a quirky and cool restaurant. Found in Newcastle's bohemian district of Ouseburn, the locally-run restaurant and deli is full of unique charm and character and has an exceptional menu which earned Cook House its place within the 2021 Michelin Guide.

See also - Kiln in Ouseburn for fairy lights, creativity and laid-back dining. There is often someone sat at a potter's wheel in the adjoining studio which adds to this quirky cafe, bar and restaurant's appeal.

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The Redhouse is a traditional pub with a quirky vibe. Set in a ramshackled and historic building along Newcastle's Quayside, The Redhouse is committed to a simple menu of pies, mash and peas. Their signature dish of pies are handmade by a butcher in the small seaside town of Amble in Northumberland. 

Make your way through the warren of rooms and passages to a crypt-like cellar room at the back of the pub or grab a pint under the heavy beams to peer out the window at the Tyne Bridge. If it's quirky pubs you're after, try also Brandling Arms in Gosforth, and The Punchbowl in Jesmond which are also full of character and dog-friendly.

All aboard The Valley Junction in Jesmond! With a slight whiff of an Agatha Christie novel, The Valley Junction is your chance to experience excellent Indian cuisine from the elegant carriage and signal box of an early 20th century train. 

Victor's on the Quayside is arguably one of Newcastle's most 'instagrammable' eateries. With a ceiling full of pink wisteria for you to dine underneath, the surroundings alone will offer you a very different dining experience. The menu of American-Asian inspired dishes as well offer a different take on dishes. Wash this down with one of their hand crafted cocktails and you have a night you will not forget!

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Cafe Under the Spire is a quirky art cafe in the daytime, and in the evening it serves up stunning Bangladeshi street food. Situated inside the beautiful Grade ll listed church building, you can expect gorgeous interior inside and out and super cosy vibes, whether for a date night or a much needed catch-up with your mates. They also run regular music and comedy nights, so make sure to check it out! 

Super Natural Newcastle is a cafe, bar, restaurant dating back to 1976 specialising in vegetarian and vegan food and drink. It sets a new standard for plant-based dining, captivating locals and challenging stereotypes about vegan food and drink. You can expect a relaxed atmosphere with cosy interior to enjoy a delicious meal.