- Play Hard
- 24th Apr 2026
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A world tour of food without leaving the North East
It turns out you don’t actually need a flight booked from Newcastle or Teesside Airport to experience authentic tastes from around the world. The restaurants Newcastle, Durham, Sunderland and beyond have to offer are genuinely world-class.
We are lucky enough to have some incredible food spots that will tickle your Geordie taste buds with international flavours right on your doorstep.
Whether you fancy the fiery kick of Indian spices, fresh Mexican plates that taste like a holiday, or comforting British classics done better than your own kitchen can manage, we’ve mapped out HLN’s very own World Tour of Food, rounding up some of the best restaurants Newcastle, Durham, Sunderland and North Yorkshire have to offer for serving global flavours without the jet lag.
INDIA – GULSHAN, TYNEMOUTH
It turns out you don’t need to leave the North East to get a taste of South Asia. Located right on the coast in Tynemouth, this authentic spot is just where you need to go for a taste of India. Serving up a mix of classic curries and speciality dishes, Gulshan is certain to bring flavours from the region to whatever plate you choose to order. No passport required.
MEXICO – LITTLE LOBO, SANDYFORD, NEWCASTLE
Tucked away in Newcastle city centre’s suburb of Sandyford, Little Lobo is one of the most exciting restaurants Newcastle has for authentic Mexican food, and the vibes match the menu perfectly. Think loaded tacos, big burritos and punchy homemade salsas that pack a proper flavour hit. If you want a place that will bring a mini fiesta to your evening plans, this spot needs to be on your radar.
JAPAN – UMI, MIDDLESBROUGH
Bringing a taste of Japan to Middlesbrough, Umi Japanese Bar and Restaurant offers a modern take on Japanese cuisine, from fresh sushi and sashimi to comforting ramen and katsu dishes. Umi caters to both newcomers and more adventurous diners, with everything from classic chicken katsu to more authentic sushi options. Whether you’re a sushi first-timer or a seasoned ramen lover, Umi has got all bases covered.
ENGLAND – REDHOUSE, NEWCASTLE
Ever had a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day? That’s exactly what Redhouse delivers. One of the most beloved restaurants Newcastle has for proper British comfort food, Redhouse specialises in locally sourced pies piled high with mash, rich gravy and peas, all washed down with a perfectly poured local pint. Proof that sometimes simple really is the most effective.
THAILAND – COCO AND RUM, SALTBURN
If you close your eyes long enough, a dish from Coco and Rum in Saltburn will transport you to Southeast Asia in just one bite. With a menu that offers everything from traditional Thai curries to fresh noodle dishes, this spot blends authentic Thai flavours with a modern twist. And if you’re not one for turning up the heat, they offer adjustable spice levels to suit every taste bud.
FRANCE – THE FRENCH QUARTER, NEWCASTLE
Think small plates and wine below the arches. Among the restaurants Newcastle has for something a little more refined, The French Quarter is one to know. This city centre spot oozes luxury and a relaxed feel, ideal for any occasion. Designed to challenge the idea that French cuisine is overly formal, it focuses on small plates and sharing dishes alongside a regularly changing seasonal menu. And yes, they do serve snails, so you can tick that one off your delicacy bucket list too.
SPAIN – GUSSTO, DURHAM
Located in the heart of Durham city centre, Gussto offers some of the finest tapas in the region. One of the standout restaurants Durham has to offer, this spot draws on the best tapas from across the Spanish landscape and really knows how to excite your taste buds. Serving everything from flavour-rich tapas to hearty paella dishes, you’ll be spoiled for choice from the moment you sit down.
GREECE – KAFENEON, NEWCASTLE
Bringing a taste of Greece to the heart of the city, Kafeneon is one of those restaurants Newcastle keeps quietly to itself but absolutely shouldn’t. Located in the city centre, it’s known for its relaxed Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere and traditional dishes including souvlaki, moussaka and sharing mezze, all alongside a full drinks menu to wash down your Greek feast with.
ITALY – BIANCO, SUNDERLAND
Bringing a taste of Italy to Sunderland city centre, Bianco is one of the most well-rounded restaurants Sunderland has to offer for classic Italian dining. A broad menu of stone-baked pizzas, traditional pastas and comfort dishes is complemented by an extensive drinks list, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed, flavourful slice of Italy in the North East.
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