Blackfriars
Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne & Wear
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In what could be the oldest purpose-built dining room in the UK – there's a claim! – Newcastle has a real gem. It started life in the early 13th century as the refectory of a Dominican friary, and still radiates medieval atmosphere from its stolid stone walls and stained glass. A banqueting hall and tasting room host scheduled events. Staff in the main restaurant come in for affectionate praise for their warmth and attentiveness, and what they bring to your table are gently creative modern British dishes of considerable flair. Flavours pack quite a punch, as in an earthy starter of venison, chorizo and potato galette, with a fried duck egg, smoked mushrooms and salsa verde that girded the loins of a spring diner for the sirloin in onion butter and triple-cooked chips to follow. Those looking for a lighter route might consider rainbow trout tartare and ponzu jelly, and then smoked Cheddar tortellini with slow-cooked beetroot and creamed spinach. The caramel-centred dark chocolate fondant with cocoa-nib tuile and vanilla ice cream has its firm devotees. Glasses from £5.95 head up a wine list that secretes a few unusual head-turners: Brazilian Tannat or a Roditis-Malagousia white from Macedonia.
