Kiln, Newcastle

An all-time favourite of mine in Newcastle is Kiln in the buzzing valley of Ouseburn, where I would go again and again, all my life if I could. Kiln is a wonderfully unique spot as it is also a pottery studio, where they make the most beautiful ceramic pots, plates, bowls, mugs, etc. with a vast array of terracotta-style colours. My mother bought me a little sugar pot for me when we went together once; it is one of my most treasured possessions, as not only is it beautiful but also reminds me of a place to which I am very sentimentally attached. If I could recommend one place to eat at in Newcastle, it would most definitely be Kiln and I know I will miss it terribly next year ...

It is the true definition of a 'hidden gem' as it is almost unrecognisable as a restaurant from the outside, other than a slate bearing its name outside. It is nestled amongst an industrial building site (very Ouseburn). However, it stands out as it is laden with fairy lights and plants, that create a cosy Edenic feel. Inside, the room is quirky and bohemian, with wooden benches and little nooks, completed with a wood burning stove and comfy sofas. One can detect its wholesomeness from the moment you walk in and see shelves lined with freshly baked sourdough loaves on your left.

Apart from its look, Kiln is also incredibly special due to its mouthwatering menu. The menu changes seasonally, and the chefs aren't afraid to experiment and play around with their dishes so that there is always something new and exciting. It is themed around brunchy, mediterrean style food - my favourite. Sharing platters with huge dollops of fresh homemade dips, warm spices, vibrant salads, steaming stews and always the heavenly smell of the best freshly-baked sourdough around. Based on my countless visits, my favourite dishes have been the Hummus platter, which is perhaps my idea of heaven on a plate, the Shakshuka, which is so flavoursome and juicy, the charcoal cauliflower, which is coated in the most amazing thick and smoky marinade, and the infamous crispy roasties, dipped in their harissa aioli.

If you are ever in the toon, I urge you to go there. You can go at anytime of the day to sample either their coffee (which I've heard would impress even the ultimate coffee snob), their abundance of cakes and scones, their breakfast dishes or their charcoal evening menu. However, whatever time you go, you can be sure of a wonderful atmosphere, amazing food and people.

Whole-roasted cauliflower with roast potatoes, Israeli salad and harissa aioli/Charcoal cauliflower with tomato and bean stew and tahini/Lamb koftas with smoked aubergine, yoghurt dip and flatbread/Sides of roast potatoes and squash and pumpkin seed salad/Hummus platter

#Fresh #Food #Dinner #Lunch #Newcastle #Mediterranean #Brunch #Kiln #Cafe