- Play Hard
- 5th Mar 2025
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13 new openings in the North East
Babucho Gosforth
The Old Church, West Avenue, Gosforth, NE3 4ES
Babucho has taken over Gosforth’s old church on the high street, transforming it into a vibe that reminds us of Tao in New York. Open from midday every day, expect comfort food including steaks, slow-cooked meats and fresh seafood, as well as pizza and pasta. They serve up a great range of cocktails and wine, with a lively buzz all day long (and great tunes).
Pho
139 Grainger Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 5AE
If you’ve ever been to a Pho in another city, you’ll be just as excited as we are that we finally have one in Newcastle. Owners Stephen and Juliette Wall opened the chain in 2005 after they travelled to Vietnam and fell in love with the food. They serve great value, healthy Vietnamese food that’s cooked fresh each day. This is also a great spot for veggies and vegans.
SHAKEDOWN
6 Cavendish Road, Jesmond, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE2 2NJ
This Manchester-founded burger place caused a stir when it opened in Jesmond overnight. With a reputation for serving one of the best burgers in Manchester, expect juicy beef burgers, crispy chicken burgers, beef and chicken in one, and a grilled cheese toastie. They also have a range of wraps, loaded fries, waffles, cookie dough, cheesecake and shakes. Total indulgence, ideal for a hangover.
Lockup
8 Maling Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE6 1LP
Ouseburn’s newest venue has immaculate vibes. A common ground for food and drink, expect quality cocktails, wine, beer and small plates from SOKU. They have a roof terrace with views over Ouseburn that we’ll be sitting on all summer.
The Forest Boost
Unit 73-74, Grainger Market, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 5QQ
The Forest Boost is a Brazilian-inspired superfood offering is set to open in Alley 2 of the Grainger Market this March. Owners Hugo Silva and Alessandra Caetano will offer visitors a tasty selection of smoothies using locally sourced fresh fruit, authentic Brazilian açaí bowls, pressed juices and a range of sourdough sandwiches packed with healthy fillings.
PureKnead Bakery
The Gosforth Centre, Gosforth, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE3 1JZ
Our friends at PureKnead have brought their signature artisan bread and bakes to Gosforth with their latest opening. Established as a stall at Tynemouth Market in 2025, they’ve since expanded with shops in Whitley Bay, Newcastle City Centre and now, Gosforth, thanks to their loyal regional following of customers travelling for miles to pick up their baked goods.
ZUU Bar & Eatery Darlington
Imperial Centre, Grange Road, Darlington, DL1 5PE
Get a taste of the wild side at this new venue for cocktails, exotic small plates and great vibes in Darlington. Enjoy wine and small plates, bottomless brunch, dancing with late-night DJs, and live entertainment. Keep an eye on their upcoming events calendar which promises to be a lot of fun.
Lean Cuisine
265 Jesmond Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE2 1LB
This popular Gateshead meal prep has expanded to Jesmond. Expect locally made fresh meal prep, fresh coffee and handmade protein treats. They also have a great range of daily specials for healthy lunch options on the go.
Dakota Quayside
112 Quayside, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 3DX
Whilst Newcastle’s newest hotel doesn’t technically open its doors until 29th March, bookings are now open if you want to be one of the first to check out this award-winning boutique hotel. There’s a range of luxurious rooms and suites to choose from, as well as a sleek grill restaurant, bar and Champagne lounge.
Recover3
Arch 3, Westgate Road, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 1SA
Wellness lovers, your prayers have been answered with this state-of-the-art wellness and recovery clinic in Newcastle. They’re bringing a range of treatments that the city has been asking for, including red light therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, exercise with oxygen training and more.
Skin & Soul
28 Lime Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 2PL
This popular holistic cosmetic clinic in Sunderland has expanded to Ouseburn, bringing its range of skin rejuvenation treatments, medical grade facials, injectables and laser technology to Newcastle. With a mission to uncover their client’s natural essence and help them fully fall in love with themselves, this clinic offers an elevated aesthetic experience.
Lakeside cabins at The Tempus
The Tempus, Charlton Hall Estate, Chathill, NE67 5DZ
Eight new lakeside cabins are now available to book at The Tempus, nestled in the beautiful Charlton Hall Estate in Northumberland. With king-size beds, a balcony, lake views, and luxurious décor, you’ll also have access to the bar and restaurant, which are just a short walk away. Dogs are welcome, making these perfect for a couples retreat or solo stay.
The Barn Door
242 Chillingham Road, Newcastle, NE6 5LP
A kitchen bar inspired by the owner’s upbringing in the Northumberland countryside has opened in Heaton. The Barn Door is a two-storey bar and kitchen serving up beers, wine, cocktails, chicken wings and burgers. Expect to be surrounded by hay bales, faux cow hides and farmyard animals – plus, they have jam sessions on a Thursday night where anyone can get up and sing. Chilled vibes.
Image credit: fooddiaries.ncl
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