The Best Restaurants in North Shields

Over the past decade North Shields Fish Quay has gone from working harbour to one of the North East's genuine dining destinations. Fishing boats still land their catch daily, which means the seafood could hardly be fresher, and around them a run of independent restaurants has grown up to make the most of it. Here are the places worth booking a table for.

The Staith House

The headline act is The Staith House on Low Lights, an award-winning gastropub that holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand — the guide's recognition of exceptional food at sensible prices. Under chef-patron John Calton it has become one of the region's most decorated kitchens.

The cooking leans on its surroundings, with fish and seafood landed a few steps away at its heart, alongside seasonal British dishes. Its Sunday lunch has won a national award, so tables go quickly and booking ahead is essential.

Best for: Best for a special meal — a Michelin Bib Gourmand on the Quay, seafood at its freshest.

Lobo Rojo

Lobo Rojo has been serving authentic Mexican street food from the Grade II-listed Irvin Building on Union Quay since 2019. Tacos, small plates and sharing dishes come matched with margaritas and a busy bar, and the outdoor seating looks straight over the Quay.

The mix of a handsome old building, a riverside setting and a proper drinks list makes it a firm local favourite for a lively evening.

Best for: Best for a fun night out — proper Mexican street food and margaritas by the river.

Allard's on the Quay

Right on Union Quay, Allard's on the Quay is the sister site to the well-loved Allard's in Tynemouth, bringing a relaxed continental style to the waterfront. Its tapas and small plates have a big regional reputation for generous portions and good value.

With a strong wine and cocktail list alongside the food, it is made for grazing over a long afternoon or evening looking out at the water.

Best for: Best for sharing — generous tapas and a good wine list right on the front.

The Uncommon

Between the town centre and the Quay, The Uncommon at Harbour House deals in small plates and natural wine. It is part of the newer, more design-led wave of North Shields openings, with a menu built for sharing and a carefully chosen drinks list.

It also runs cocktails, DJ nights and Sunday roasts, so it shifts easily from a relaxed dinner to a livelier evening.

Best for: Best for small plates and natural wine — the town's most design-led dining room.

Fred's

For something more laid-back, Fred's occupies a converted warehouse on Tanners' Bank at the eastern end of the Quay, with a big terrace over the mouth of the Tyne. It serves comforting pub classics with a coastal leaning, alongside cocktails and a well-kept bar.

Dog-friendly and geared to the Quay's easygoing crowd, it is a good choice for a long lunch or a drink as the boats come and go.

Best for: Best for a relaxed lunch — coastal pub classics and a big riverside terrace.

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