Its Chinatown may be one of the liveliest in the country and the affluent Osborne Road is a favourite of the city’s students, but when it comes to eating out in Newcastle we always go for an Italian option. We’ve picked out six of the best places for pizza, pasta and pancetta in the city – call a lifestyle manager to reserve a table at any of the places featured.
Pani's Italian Café
61-65 High Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 6BX
This cafe, frequented by the city’s Italian residents, is small and hard to find but certainly worth the journey. The food is simple, good value, and bursting with flavour thanks to fresh ingredients and old-school know-how. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff also make this the ideal place to while away the afternoon over one of Pani’s special coffees.
Piccolino
Stockbridge House, Trinity Gardens, Quayside, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 2HJ
With a distinctly relaxed atmosphere, the Newcastle arm of Piccolino is great for al fresco dining in summer. Although part of a chain, the restaurant has the homely feel of an independent, with welcoming staff and a menu containing a range of interesting and unusual options. Go for baked aubergine with buffalo mozzarella, followed by the crispy duck with honey roasted apples.
Scalini’s
61 Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 2AN
A popular, if not particularly groundbreaking, option, Scalini’s is located in the affluent district of Jesmond. Serving up all the Italian standards, alongside Mediterranean dishes, this is an environment more suited to friends and family than a romantic dinner for two. The restaurant’s happy hour menu, at only £4.50, offers great value for money.
Uno’s Trattoria
18 Sandhill, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3AF
Uno’s is a bustling, family-run establishment located a short distance from the Metro Radio Arena, making it ideal for a quick bite to eat before a concert or show. Pizza and pasta dishes make up the bulk of the menu but there are plenty of alternatives, such as chicken Milanese, fresh mussels and garlic mushrooms.
Marco Polo
33 Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 1PQ
A favourite of locals and visitors to the city alike, Marco Polo is a family-friendly restaurant next to the Tyne Bridge. The menu is exactly how an Italian restaurant’s should be: both classic and innovative. Calzone and potato gnocchi with wild boar salami sit alongside pan-fried sea bass and braised duck leg with Italian sausage. During the week there is a fixed two-course lunch for just £5.95.
Connect with Ten Lifestyle