I seem to be doing a fair amount of zipping around the country at the moment with the most recent stop on my adventures having been in Newcastle. It was just a flying visit, but I did have time for breakfast and coffee so having consulted the internet for cafes near the train station I alighted upon the Settle Down.

It was rather rainy outside so regular guest quester Tim and I were glad to be out of the weather and welcomed into the warm, informal confines of this charming place.

With a blend of bench seating and comfy corners, with much quirky detailing throughout, this was a place packed with character. I liked it a lot.

We ordered coffees, from local roastery Ouseburn, and bacon sandwiches from the wonderfully friendly counter woman.

The coffees arrived first and were of very pleasing quality. My espresso was spot on and deeply satisfying.

The bacon sandwiches, on freshly toasted bread, maintained the excellent standard. The bacon was crisp and profuse. It was plentiful enough to defeat Tim so I had to do the honourable thing and finish the last couple of bites of his sandwich. His preference for red rather than brown sauce was baffling but tolerable.

So overall, I was highly impressed with the Settle Down Cafe. I don’t know the food scene in Newcastle well at all, but this was a very enjoyable introduction to what their cafes have to offer. I look forward to many future visits.

Scores
Blythe scores Settle Down
4/5 for food
4/5 for presentation
4/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 16/20

Today’s questers were: Tim, Blythe

We ate: bacon sandwiches

We drank: espresso, americano

We wore: rain-spotted suits

Total bill: £10.60

61-62 Thornton St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4AW
http://www.thesettledown.com/