Restaurant · Newcastle upon Tyne
Handy for a pre-theatre meal just across from the Theatre Royal, this Grey Street spot has a buzzy bar and a calmer restaurant room behind it — atmospheric without being deafening, so a conversation (or a fractious four-year-old) won't be drowned out. Staff tend to be genuinely warm and unhurried, happy to let you linger, and the kitchen has been known to make something off-menu for a table. Portions are generous: the sea bass, garlic cheese bread, cheesy fries and hanging skewers all land well, and the apple crumble is enormous. Food usually arrives quickly, which helps. Two honest snags — parking nearby is pricey (and after 7pm single-yellow bays turn into taxi ranks), and service can wobble when it's busy. There's a kids' menu, high chairs, buggy access and a few outdoor tables.
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.
Sofa seating, food brought to your seat and unusually warm staff — a pricey but very comfortable cinema treat, with a kids' menu.
Familiar Newcastle coffee stop with hot drinks, snacks and high chairs — an easy mid-outing pause with little ones in tow.
Handsome pan-Asian small plates in Newcastle with attentive staff, high chairs, buggy access and a weekday bento lunch that's genuinely good value.