Shotley Bridge Restaurants

Amazing place- lovely food and fantastic presentation. Staff very friendly and knowledgeable.

1st choice for wonderful Sunday Lunch in a cosy village pub

My recent Sunday lunch at Blackfriars Restaurant was nothing short of extraordinary. Nestled in a historic building, the ambiance was both cozy and elegant, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience. The meal began with a selection of freshly baked bread and creamy butter, a delightful start that hinted at the quality to come. For the main course, I opted for the traditional roast lamb, which was cooked to perfection—succulent, tender, and bursting with flavor. However, the true star of the meal was the mint sauce. Often an overlooked accompaniment, Blackfriars' version was a revelation. It struck the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity, with a fresh, vibrant flavor that elevated the lamb to new heights. The mint sauce was clearly made with the freshest ingredients, adding a zesty, aromatic touch that complemented the richness of the meat beautifully. The side dishes were equally impressive. The roasted vegetables were caramelized to perfection, and the potatoes were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Each component of the meal was thoughtfully prepared and executed with precision. Service throughout was impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who made the dining experience seamless and enjoyable. In summary, Blackfriars Restaurant provided an outstanding Sunday lunch that exceeded all expectations. The highlight was undeniably the mint sauce, a simple yet transformative addition that showcased the chef's skill and attention to detail. I highly recommend this gem for anyone seeking a superb dining experience.

Why can’t other pubs be like this? Traditional food cooked with great skill, care and attention to detail, excellent service and great ambiance. You would be mad not to go out of your way to visit when in Newcastle.

The dining was superb. Three of us including one guest thoroughly enjoyed the dining and the atmosphere. The pre dinner drinks were a bit slow and a touch erratic - I for one had to ask for a cocktail stick for the cherries in my whisky sour, also having to return to the bar for several napkins. The nibbles did arrive virtually when we had finished our drinks. The restaurant was very busy, which probably explains the points I have mentioned, As I said, the dining and service at the table were excellent. The scallops were divine, the venison perfect, the puddings (rum babas) were heavenly, the wine at £53 a bottle was perhaps a bit over the top, but it paired perfectly with the meal. To see the restaurant full on a Wednesday evening is testament to the quality of the dining. We very much look forward to our next dining experience at 21. Thank you to all of the staff who were,as ever, very friendly and proficient. Thank you.