Food & Drink

Discover the best of North Shields food and drink — from indie cafes and Fish Quay restaurants to local brewers and street food favourites. Explore the people, flavours, and stories behind our coastal town’s food and drink scene.

THE LOW LIGHTS TAVERN – A TALE OF PIES AND POP STARS 

0
Low Lights Tavern (image credit: Coastal Captures)

     Saturday night in the Low Lights Tavern and the place is jumping with revellers of all ages enjoying a cracking night out in...

Made in North Shields: Inside The Chocolate Smiths

0

Inside The Chocolate Smiths’ North Shields factory, where skilled local production, sustainability and pride in place come together in award-winning chocolate manufacturing.

THE EXCHANGE 1856 

0

By Carol Davison      With a ‘to do’ list as long as your arm, I was surprised to find local businessman and entrepreneur Paul...

Explore Baba Yaga: North Shields’ Café and Bar

0

Originally established in Whitley Bay two years ago Baba Yaga has finally wandered on those chicken legs and set up a new venue in...

Everyday culture: from port to plate

0
Video created by: SIRA Studio, Northern Story Board

At the heart of North Shields, the Fish Quay is far more than a scenic waterfront. As the UK’s largest prawn port, it lands vast quantities of langoustines and fresh fish each year, supplying kitchens locally and nationwide. From boat to plate, seafood travels mere metres before reaching restaurants like Just Italy and Phil's Place. This is a town that feeds the nation — and serves its own catch with pride.

Getting to know Lewis Morrison – Head Chef at 31 The Quay

0

At just 30, Lewis Morrison is redefining dining in North Shields as Executive Chef and co-owner of *31 The Quay*. Driven by a passion for fresh, seasonal food and a belief that great meals shouldn’t cost the earth, Lewis brings Michelin-level experience and homegrown heart to Smith’s Dock. From dropping out of university to cooking in Gordon Ramsay’s kitchen, his journey has been anything but ordinary. Now, he’s building a legacy—one flavour-packed plate at a time—in his beloved hometown.

Did You Know? North Shields Is One of the UK’s Biggest Langoustine Ports

0

Did you know North Shields is one of the UK’s largest langoustine ports? Discover how the Fish Quay connects the North Sea catch to kitchens across Europe.

Lui’s Café Bar: The Hidden Gem Between North Shields and Tynemouth

0

Chloe Reece has recently celebrated one year of owning Lui’s — the bright and cosy café bar nestled across the road from Northumberland Park. From creative workshops and quiz nights to festive soirées, there truly is never a dull moment at Lui’s. The café bar offers a welcoming space for all, whether you’re just popping in for a sweet treat and a cuppa or joining in on one of the many events being hosted.

Old Low Light: Still shining a light on North Shields and its Fish Quay

0

The Old Low Light Heritage Centre stands proudly on North Shields Fish Quay as the town’s oldest surviving building, once a guiding light for ships navigating the Tyne. Today, after major restoration and decades of changing purpose, it continues to illuminate the area’s rich maritime heritage. Run by dedicated volunteers, the centre has become a vibrant community hub, offering exhibitions, events, walks, workshops, and stunning river views. Its story is one of resilience, renewal, and a deep commitment to preserving local history.

Baba Yaga’s Café and Bar

0
Staff at Baba Yaga from left to right: Madé, Jack, Gabby and Kester.

The eclectic heartbeat of North Shields' creative scene. In the ever-evolving landscape of independent music and art venues, Baba Yaga’s in North Shields stands out...

MUST READ

Tommy Smalls and Friends

0
Tucked away in the backstreets of North Shields since 2017, Tommy Smalls and Friends is a lively urban smallholding full of character. From Reginald the Gypsy Cobb to tiny Buddy Holly and Kenny Rogers, this family-run haven is home to horses, hens, ducks, and more. It’s the good life—North Shields style.
0