Indian · Newcastle upon Tyne
Sunday afternoons are the sweet spot here — it's quiet enough between two and four that nobody minds a wriggly toddler, and the dining room is bigger than you'd expect, with well-spaced tables rather than everything crammed together, so a pram isn't a problem. The staff walk you through the menu properly, including allergies, and one family found it won over both a fussy eight-year-old and a very particular grandmother in the same sitting. Order the vadai (it arrives steaming), the Chicken 65, the Madurai butter chicken with coconut rice, or the poori shots to start. There's a kids' menu, high chairs, vegan options, outdoor seating and free parking. Two snags: the entrance is round the back and genuinely tricky to find first time, and drinks can be slow — food, though, comes out fast and fresh.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
Smart Newcastle restaurant under a blossom tree — fresh pasta, kind staff, kids' menu, high chairs and free parking.
Smart Italian in Jesmond with a kids' menu, high chairs and a sunny terrace — pizzas children rave about, mains mostly £15–£25.
Warm, well-loved Newcastle café with vegan options and a 4.9 star rating from over 200 reviews.