- Play Hard
- 14th Nov 2025
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10 new openings to have on your radar
There’s no slowing down the North East’s food, drink and lifestyle scene.
From a seriously stylish Ouseburn bar to Sunderland’s sleekest new spa (inspired by Dubai), here are 10 new places worth adding to your weekend plans.
Wren
Foundry Lane, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne
From the team behind Cook House and Long Friday, Wren is the latest addition to Newcastle’s thriving Ouseburn scene. A beautifully designed bar from Anna Hedworth, we’re talking warm lighting, crafted cocktails, small plates and laidback elegance. Think post-work drinks with real atmosphere – the kind of place you’ll want to settle into all evening.
ÅND Studios
High Street, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne
Gosforth’s latest wellness hub, ÅND Studios, is redefining what it means to train, practice and connect. Designed for personal trainers, therapists and wellness pros, the space offers premium treatment rooms, full equipped training zones, calming communal lounges and a supportive network of practitioners. With sleek, minimalist interiors and a community-first ethos, ÅND is where wellness careers and personal practice thrive.
Cove Salon
5A Frederick Street, Sunderland
Sunderland’s latest wellness destination, Cove, brings luxury salon, spa-treatment sanctuary and mindful retreat all under one roof. With standout features like a Japanese head-spa experience, premium skincare, haircutting and styling alongside holistic wellness offerings, it’s designed as a sanctuary for self-care. Seriously stylish interiors, expert therapists and a fresh focus on feeling good make Cove a top choice.
Knot Churros
Metrocentre, Gateshead
Move over doughnuts, Knot Churros has landed at the Metrocentre, and it’s here to satisfy your sweetest cravings. Expect hand-rolled churros, glossy chocolate dips, soft serve and milkshakes, all served from their Instagrammable pastel kiosk. A sugary slice of London’s dessert scene right here in the North East.
Maki & Ramen
Metrocentre, Gateshead
Edinburgh’s cult ramen house Maki & Ramen has officially at Metrocentre, and fans are already loving it. Serving steaming bowls of rich, authentic ramen and hand-rolled sushi, this stylish Japanese spot brings a hit of comfort and umami to Gateshead’s dining scene.
Sosa Wellness
High Street, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne
Gosforth’s brand-new wellness studio offering infrared saunas, lymphatic body rolling and recovery treatments designed to help you feel your best. Founded by specialists in holistic health, Sosa’s sleek, calming interiors and cutting-edge therapies make it the perfect spot for a post-gym reset or self-care session.
The Book Club Cafe
Newcastle City Library, Newcastle upon Tyne
Tucked inside Newcastle City Library, Book Club Cafe is a dreamy new café serving artisan coffee, pastries, locally made bakes, brunch and lunch items among the bookshelves. Expect great people-watching, good vibes and excellent flat whites. The perfect refuel stop to escape from the hustle and bustle.
Barbour at Fred’s, Fenwick
Fenwick, Northumberland Street, Newcastle upon Tyne
Two North East icons come together at Barbour takes over Fred’s Café inside Fenwick Newcastle this Christmas. Expect classic Barbour style paired with Fred’s chic, contemporary menu. Seasonal dishes, great coffee and a beautifully British shopping-and-lunch combo that’s Newcastle heritage, reimagined.
Handsome Sandwich
Chillingham Road, Heaton, Newcastle upon Tyne
Heaton’s lunch scene just levelled up. Handsome Sandwich is the new go-to for big flavours and bold combinations. We’re talking epic sandwhiches here – breakfast options are filled with. Block and Bottle sausage and bacon, jammy eggs and cheese, while lunchtime are epic flavour combos that change regularly. They have great veggie and vegan options too. Grab one to go or stay for the banter; either way, these are seriously handsome sandwiches.
KULT.
High Street, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne
Gosforth’s newest café, KULT, joins the scene with serious style. A modern coffee, matcha and protein ‘fuel’ bar, expect high-protein food including Acai bowls, lunch options and overnight oats. On selected evenings, KULT will transform into a café-bar serving wine, beer and cocktails in a cool environment. The interior is cool and unique, and the vibes are friendly. A great new local hangout.
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