Ah, Newcastle – it might be better known for ‘broon ale’ but if you’re looking for a pick-me-up in the morning, the UK’s most northern city is packed with exciting, independent coffee shops, bakeries and cafés galore.
From nationally renowned bakeries to local institutions, there are plenty of exciting spots dotted around the city.
Want a breakfast that tastes great and looks amazing? A coffee that’ll be the envy of your Instagram feed? Pastries that look good enough for your photo album? North East business Anglo Scottish works with hospitality businesses to provide coffee machine finance – we spoke to the team for the lowdown on the city’s most Instagrammable coffee shops, cafés and bakeries.
Northern Rye (@northern.rye)
Tucked away in trendy Ouseburn (although they’re moving to a new location soon), this quaint bakery is home to some of the UK’s finest pastries. Featured in The Telegraph and recognised by British Baker as the fourth-best bakery in the entire UK, Northern Rye has become a community hotspot for friends and families to catch up and enjoy a treat.
With a yummy selection of sandwiches (made with their in-house sourdough or baguette, of course), indulgent sweet and savoury pastries and delicious coffee, it’s a must-visit to put a smile on your face and your Instagram feed. Just get down early – they’ll be sold out by the afternoon!
Aidan’s Kitchen (@aidanskitchenncl)
Over the last few years, Sandyford has gradually assembled some of the city’s most forward-thinking eateries and Aidan’s Kitchen is at the heart of it all. Expect brunchtime classics done right alongside some more exciting stuff, like the Korean Short Rib Sando, Masala Toastie and Moroccan Eggs. Everything is made with an emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients.
The café recently hosted TV stars Larry Lamb and Jamie-Lee O’Donnell (of Derry Girls fame) to film a new show, so you might see it featured on the big screen as well as your phone screen soon!
Pink Lane Bakery (@pinklanebakery)
Clocking in at third place is Pink Lane Bakery, one of the Toon’s most iconic and beloved artisan bakeries. From their shops in Newcastle city centre and Gosforth to their Jesmond café on Acorn Road, Pink Lane Bakery has become a North East institution, renowned for its pies, pasties, sandwiches and coffee.
To avoid the queues, click-and-collect at the Gosforth or city centre bakeries. Nobody wants to see you waiting in line on your Insta story!
Dog and Scone (@dogandscone)
We wouldn’t normally judge a café based on its occupants, but for Dog and Scone we have to make an exception. Found on Pudding Chare, near the train station, this snug café offers delicious tea, cakes and coffee in the company of its seven resident dogs – all of which are well-trained, friendly, and LOVE visitors.
If you’re looking for food for the soul as well as your stomach, this is the place to get it.
Ernest (@ernest.ouseburn)
Home to a café, restaurant, bar and well-stocked artisan farm shop (humbly titled Ernie), Ernest’s people-first approach, shabby chic vibe and cosy backroom brunches have made it a firm local favourite. Its claim to fame is the best Bloody Mary in Newcastle – try it for yourself!
Stop by even later in the day and you could end up part of one of their community-led parties, soundtracked by the finest local DJ talent.
Mog on the Tyne (@mogonthetyne)
Don’t despair cat lovers! There’s a dedicated café for you to enjoy the company of your four-legged friends, too. Mog on the Tyne is conveniently located next door to Dog and Scone and accommodates rehomed and adopted kitties, who you’ll find exploring their climbing frame, curled up in a nest or vying for your attention.
The perfect place for a relaxing panini.
Tiny Tiny (@tiny_tiny_newcastle)
Formerly known as Flat Caps Coffee, Tiny Tiny can be found in town on Carliol Square, just along from World Headquarters, another Newcastle mainstay. Airy, spacious and a great place to bring your laptop and catch up on work, Tiny Tiny’s carefully curated Brew Bar menu features coffees from around the world.
It’s not all about the drinks! Although their latte art promises the perfect Insta image, you can also grab a delectable brunch. We recommend the homemade sausage rolls.
Fork in the Rose (@forkintherose)
One of many exciting establishments in up-and-coming Heaton, Fork in the Rose might just be this list’s most Instagram-friendly location! This breakfast café and florist combo is dog- and family-friendly and packed to the rafters with lush greenery.
The café serves up a classy brunch menu consisting of seasonal classics.
FAB Bakery (@fab_bakery_fenham)
In Fenham, FAB Bakery leads the way when it comes to Insta feed-friendly food. Known for its signature bakes, like croissant cubes, fougasse and a stunning flatbread of French origin resembling focaccia, FAB is famous among locals.
You’ll love the variety of inventive pastry concoctions. Just follow the smell of cinnamon!
Olive and Bean (@oliveandbean)
Handmade baked goods, breakfasts, brunches and lunches – Olive and Bean has it all. Managing to maintain a cosy, intimate feel with an extensive deli counter, this quaint Clayton Street eatery is the perfect place for a catch up with friends and family.
You can even get a custom cake made for collection by the O+B bakers – perfect for those special moments or to treat your special someone.
CatPawCino (@catpawcino_cat_cafe)
Another cat café? Looks like this one is a win for the cat people! Down on the Quayside, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Tyne and Millennium bridges, CatPawCino boasts rolling river vistas and a family of resident kitties in a bright, relaxing space.
With local coffee from Pumphreys, local teas from Ringtons, local cake from the Pudding Parlour and specialty Chinese drinks like Oolong and Jasmine tea, there’s something for everyone.
Little Aidan’s (@littleaidansncl)
As if one fantastic location wasn’t enough! The masterminds behind Aidan’s Kitchen have brought their break-spertise to Gosforth, bringing along a few of their signature dishes.
Timeless classics sit alongside refreshing new takes, such as slow-cooked Ox Cheek Benedict, Lamb Kofta Flatbreads and plenty more.
Butterfly Cabinet (@butterflycaf)
Now this is one café that deserves more followers! This revered Heaton location might have Newcastle’s best and most extensive menu for breakfast and lunch, all set amidst eclectic, homely interior décor.
You’ll have to time it right – Butterfly Cabinet is so popular that even random weekdays see queues round the corner! It’s worth it though – especially for the belly-busting Business breakfast!
So, whether you’re in the city centre, Gosforth, Heaton, Jesmond or Fenham, there’s an amazing café, coffee shop or bakery for you. Not only can you grab the perfect image for your feed, you’ll be supporting some of the Toon’s best local businesses and enjoying some truly delicious food.
For more information, visit https://www.angloscottishfinance.co.uk/sectors/coffee-vending-machine-finance/
