- Christmas
- 5th Dec 2025
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December date nights & catch-ups: Stylish bars and restaurants in Newcastle for festive evenings out
If there’s ever a month that demands a little sparkle, it’s December.
Newcastle absolutely comes alive at this time of year – fairy lights strung across the streets, cocktails served with a little extra theatre, and restaurants leaning fully into winter warmth.
Whether you’re planning a festive date night, a long-overdue catch-up with friends or one last hurrah before the holidays, these stylish Newcastle spots guarantee a gorgeous evening out.
Mother Mercy
The Old George Yard, 44 Cloth Market, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1EE
Hidden underground away from the bustle of Grey Street, Mother Mercy feels like stepping into a winter speakeasy – all low lighting, velvet seating and cocktails that taste like a treat. Their seasonal menu leans into rich, indulgent flavours (think spiced rum, vanilla, dark berries) and it’s one of the best places in the city for a cosy, intimate date night.
Lubber Kitchen
83 Blanford Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3PZ
One of our favourite places for a catch-up, Lubber Kitchen is somewhere you’ll want to hang out all night long. Expect European dining with an imaginative twist, with everything from relaxed brunches to multi-course evening menus, accompanied by natural wines and house infusions. The tunes will be just as good as the food, as the space doubles as home to Slack’s Radio, making it as much a cultural hub as a kitchen. It’s seriously good value for money too, with lunch deals from £5.50 and an evening dining experience for £28 per person.
Sanco
The Forge, Forth Banks, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3AA
Love pizza? This one is a great shout. Turn on the light at your table and you’ll be brought slice after slice of authentic Neapolitan pizza – no ordering, no choosing, think pizza roulette where you can try a bit of everything. And we’re not just talking basic pepperoni, think truffle and mushroom, butternut squash base, and so much more. Add in glam surroundings and cocktails – festive catch-up, sorted.
Hibou Blanc
13 High Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1UW
For an elegant Christmas catch-up, Hibou Blanc delivers serious festive energy without being over the top. With crisp white tablecloths, glimmering glassware and a brasserie menu perfect for a winter evening (the whole grilled native lobster frites is a must-try), it’s a great choice for a slightly dressier December dinner.
Khai Khai
29 Queen Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3UG
Smoky, atmospheric and always buzzing, Khai Khai is a brilliant December choice if you want something a little unexpected. Their Indian comfort dishes – from charred small plates to rich curries – feel especially satisfying on cold nights, and the fire-led cooking adds a festive glow of its own.
All Bar One
51 Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6EE
All Bar One’s festive menu brings a chic, city-centre sparkle to December dining, with seasonal cocktails, cosy décor and a three-course line-up that mixes classic Christmas comfort with modern twists. It’s the perfect spot for stylish catch-ups or an easy, feel-good date night right in the heart of Newcastle.
MoosenWirt Alpine Bar
91 Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6JG
We certainly can’t miss out one of Newcastle’s favourite Christmas spots! MoosenWirt brings full Alpine cosiness to the city centre with its twinkling lights, rustic wood interiors, festive tunes and fireside winter cocktails – ideal for stealing a snug moment away from the December rush. Book one of the heated domes for a date night that feels like a true festive getaway.
The Old George
Old George Yard, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1EZ
The Old George brings all the nostalgic charm you want at Christmas, with its historic courtyard dressed in traditional decorations that feel straight out of a storybook. It’s a cosy, no-fuss choice for a relaxed festive date or an easy afternoon drink wrapped up in Newcastle’s past. Tip: try and plan your visit on a night where there’s some live music on – you won’t be disappointed!
DOOD
63 Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3DE
If you’re looking for something a little bit extra this season, head to DOOD on the Quayside for a stunning festive meal with a Levantine twist. They have released a four-course Christmas menu where you’ll kick off with bubbles, crackers and a house wine before the table fills with sharing plates like pita-crusted calamari, saffron-spiced monkfish and baklava paired with pistachio ice cream.
WC
WC, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1UW
For a post-dinner drink, WC is one of the city’s chicest little hideaways. The intimate cocktail bar set inside a restored Victorian public toilet sounds quirky, but it’s honestly one of Newcastle’s most stylish spots. Perfect for a flirty date night finale.
FIRE
Hotel Gotham, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6SE
Open daily from 11am until late, FIRE Cocktail Bar and Club at Gotham Newcastle offfers the finest cocktails, classic bar bites, accompanied by a roaring playlist. The lounge has two external terraces and brings all of the vibes, with live music on selected dates and DJs playing every Friday and Saturday evenings.
Wherever you head this December, Newcastle’s bar and dining scene has never looked more magical. Dress up, lean into the festive sparkle and toast to the end of the year in serious style.
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