Eating Out Around Newcastle: Mayfield & Islington

If you're like me and you can't decide between your two favourite items on the menu, Tapas is the perfect dining option to solve all these problems. Tapas has become a real favourite among Novocastrian diners with a slew of venues now offering these tasty treats. And, Mayfield arguably is home to Newcastle's best Tapas at Barrio 2304. Situated next to the Beauford Hotel on Maitland Road, the tiny venue serves fantastic food at affordable prices. Some of the standout dishes include the tuna sashimi, beef carpaccio and olive tapenade and my favourite, the goat’s cheese and fig bruschetta. Barrio 2304 is only open Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights so be sure to make a booking as it is a popular destination.

You don't have to be vegetarian, vegan, gluten free or an organic food lover to enjoy Sunny's Cafe in Islington, with the food served at this quirky Maitland Road venue truly top notch. All the ingredients are sourced locally and even though they might not readily admit it, carnivorous meat eaters will happilly enjoy the scrumptious vegetarian fare. Not only is the food good, the coffee is also delicious. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, give them a quick call to reserve a table.

It might not be a dinner destination and it is horribly close to being part of Hamilton but, no list for Islington would be complete without the addition of Suspension Espresso. Serving some of Newcastle's best coffee, Suspension is certainly a must visit whilst in the area. A refreshing variety of blends, a tasty lunch menu with lots of items to tickle your sweet tooth and a leafy courtyard where you can while away the hours to some sweet tunes all make for a nifty little cafe.

Tucked away amongst a treasure trove of antiques lies Vincent's Cafe. This cozy little gem serves up Newcastle's very own Sprocket coffee, a warm atmosphere and a menu that is constantly changing, using only the freshest in season produce. Open 7 days a week from 8.30-4.30 this is an essential stop when touring about Mayfield.

Figtree is Newcastle’s first churrasco dining experience. This Brazillian BBQ is a meat lovers dream with eight courses served for your carniverous pleasure. A selection of breads, salads and of course, churros are also on the menu so be sure to check out this South American inspired experience. Vegetarians might want to go elsewhere.