Café Neon: "Popular, and great value" Top 5 Page for this destination Newcastle upon Tyne Restaurant Tip by toonsarah

We have been to this café in the Bigg Market before, but only for a cold drink at one of its outside tables. This time we were in search of a light pre-match lunch – and so it seemed were many others. The place was packed and we were lucky to secure the last table in the basement (the small ground floor area was completely full and it was too chilly on this occasion to eat outside). Of course the fact that it was not only a match day but also a Bank Holiday may have been a factor in how busy the café was, but I have a feeling that it would be a popular choice at any time, given the great value that it offers. Certainly we will be back!

Although it may seem that the basement would be a gloomy choice at lunchtime, in fact it is brightly decorated with murals showing various sunny climes and seemed very welcoming on this rather cold day. There were only two people serving, but despite this and the number of tables occupied, service was brisk but friendly.

Favorite Dish: The menu offers lots of light meals and more substantial fare too. We both chose a wrap – mine chicken salad, Chris’s Greek salad. These came with a portion of potato wedges and were a very reasonable £4.50 each. The café is licensed but I was happy to settle for a freshly squeezed orange juice as I knew I would be drinking in the pub later (as I said, it was match day!) and Chris had a Coke. We were very happy with our lunch and as I said, are sure to return.

The café is also open in the evening with an equally good value menu offering more substantial dishes such as pasta and Greek specialities. It’s nothing fancy but I reckon would be a good choice for anyone on a budget wanting tasty food without breaking the bank.

Address: 8 Bigg Market, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1UW
Comparison: less expensive than average
Directions: On the east side of the Bigg Market, i.e. your right if walking uphill. Nearest Metro station is either Central of Monument (pretty much equidistant between the two)
Phone: 0191 260 2577
Price: less than US$10
Rating: 3
Theme: Eclectic/International
Website: http://www.neoncafe.co.uk/