Brunching and Lunching

With the sudden realisation of how quickly my time in Newcastle is going, I promised myself that I would make the most of this year. 

Until recently I've always thought that Newcastle only really has the generic, chain cafes and restaurants. Admittedly, the unique places are well hidden, however they're definitely worth the search. 

This week I've had my fair share of brunching and lunching, starting at Olive and Bean. 

'Olive and Bean is a coffee shop, bespoke sandwich bar and delicatessen all rolled into one'

Escaping from the library, Becca and I went to Olive and Bean for lunch. With an extensive menu, we were spoilt for choice and the decision was hard. I settled for the homemade humous, falafel and sun-blushed tomato salad and it did not disappoint.

The selection of sweet treats was too much. Cakes, tiffin, brownies, cheesecake - they had it all. As always, our eyes were far bigger than our stomachs. Not letting anything go to waste, we resorted to taking doggy bags home!

Next was birthday brunch at Jam Jar in Jesmond. Having been for dinner before, I had no doubt that brunch would be equally as good. Serving full english, pancakes and eggs florentine, Jam Jar is the perfect wake up call. 

Last up was lunch at ARLO, also in Jesmond. This bistro and cafe is a real hidden beauty. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, ARLO is decorated in a quirky yet quaint way. 

This was the perfect way to spend a rainy Saturday afternoon. Catering for all, the lunch menu offers soup, sandwiches, quiche, salads and more. Make sure you leave room for the amazing cakes!

The Sloppy Lola 

Toulouse sausage Bolognese, toasted ciabatta, melted cheddar, salad & crisps

Crumbled Feta, Hummus, Sun blushed Tomato and Roast Vegetable Soft Open Tortilla

A day in Newcastle

Last week, our photographer Roo Lewis came up to Newcastle to follow a day in the life of the Newcastle Seasonnaires. We took him to key locations around the city and campus where he captured Rory and I doing every day activities.

From the Quayside to Jam Jar in Jesmond, we covered all aspects of University life for Newcastle students.

Roo took some amazing photographs, making the most of the perfect lighting. Here are a selection of my favourites...

A weekend of eating...

Having visitors in Newcastle means one thing - eating. 

This weekend Alice came down from Edinburgh to stay with me and see our new house. With lots to catch up on, food was of course the perfect accompaniment. 

Friday night began with homemade lentil stuffed squash. Mum had sent us the recipe earlier on this week  so we decided to put it to test. Butternut squash stuffed with lentils, tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach and topped with cheese, it tasted just as good as the recipe looked. 

After a day of retail therapy, we decided to try out Jam Jar, a new restaurant which has just opened in Jesmond. The quirky yet homely food and drinks venue is exactly what Jesmond needs.

Jam Cocktails

Their menu is built around fresh, locally sourced produce with English comfort food and all-American classics. Expect British classics such as traditional fish and chips, homemade pies, and afternoon tea combined with transatlantic favourites such as friend chicken, buttermilk pancakes and not to mention the best burgers in town. 

Pulled Pork Burger & Chips

Alice and I opted for the pulled pork burger served with chips whilst Becca went for the Sirloin Steak.Housed in a contemporary space with a fun and upbeat atmosphere, Jam Jar rose above all expectations.

Steak & Chips with Coleslaw