If the first few weeks of 2024 are anything to go by, we’re going to be blessed with some incredible new dining experiences all over the North East this year.
My favourite so far has to be Aioli in Birtley by MasterChef The Professionals 2022 semi-finalist Chris Finnigan. The chef’s table experience included an incredible array of custom dishes from scallops to steak alongside some of Chris’ favourites, including his famous black pudding bhajis. If you want to check it out for yourself, you’ll have to be quick – bookings fill up fast at this little gem.
For Sundays on the north side of the Tyne, Osters in Gosforth is a must. Created by the team that brought us Lovage in Jesmond, the menu is bursting with seasonal, local and foraged ingredients. The Sunday roast is the perfect way to end the week and I loved the mouth-watering red wine featherblade of beef.
If you’re looking to spice up your breakfast, you have to head to Little Lobo in Tynemouth. The team is now onto their fourth venue and I’m not surprised they’ve found so much success with their Californian-inspired Mexican dishes. The Eggs Benedicto is a delicious twist on a classic complete with chorizo, sausage, guacamole and an added kick from the most delicious adobo hollandaise.
Finally, one to look forward to… Bite Back Festival will take place on June 9 with 15 Michelin-starred chefs from around the UK teaming up with Sian and Cal Byerly from Restaurant Pine to cook up a street food storm at Wylam Brewery – with all proceeds going to Cancer Research UK. Check it out at www.bitebackfestival.co.uk
Laura Middleton – AKA Geordie Scran on Instagram – shares her food experiences from Newcastle and beyond.
Follow Laura @geordie.scran
