Reviews in Newcastle City Centre

El Torero, The Side, NE1 1PR tel 0191 233 1122 Friends had told us that we might have to wait for a table at El Torero the Spanish Tapas Restaurant if we called in on a Friday night. Although it appeared busy, we were ushered to a table immediately when we arrived at about 7.40pm. By the time we moved to the bar after 9.00pm the place was full and diners who had not booked were being advised that they might have to wait over 30 minutes for a table. Most appeared quite happy because they were going to get a table and it would give them the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere and people watch whist they waited in the bar. It is so interesting to see people come in off a cold street into a warm vibrant restaurant with the staff fussing round them. It adds to the atmosphere to hear the Spanish language being used at a high volume and fast rate as drinks are ordered and tables prepared by the mainly Spanish staff. There were large parties, couples and family groups all seemingly having a great time. We had been forewarned not to order too many tapas. Restricting ourselves was difficult, as there is such a wide variety on the extensive menu. We settled for the ?ordero a la pepitoria?(succulent lamb braised in a tomato and cream sauce), ?otatas a la riojana?(a mix of fried potatoes, red peppers and chorizo sausage) and ?opa vieja?(chickpeas in a spicy tomato sauce with spicy sausage). Ordering the tapas was taken as a challenge like the GCSE speaking test (menu closed and no using English). The waiters were great as they tried to work out our mangled pronunciation, all part of the fun with the reward of the tapas being delivered fairly quickly to the table rather than the very long wait for GCSE results. Within each of the three tapas there was a mix of distinctive flavours, each enjoyable on its own or mixed with the others. The quantities were generous especially the lamb and both my partner and I drooled (figuratively and literally) over the chickpeas. With just a little space still left for the rest of our Torrecilli red wine we chose one more tapas, ?atiles con beicon?(dates in bacon). This tapas with the delicate taste of the smoky bacon round a date stuffed with an almond is best consumed on its own to experience the subtle mix of textures and flavours. The wine and the four tapas came to a reasonable £28.50. We certainly found the service and food excellent and we really enjoyed the ambience and style of the restaurant. It is the sort of place that you feel you have to return to and we most certainly will.

A good solid Italian

this restaurant has a special from 6 to 9pm which is £6.95 its fantastic value

Simply the best curry in Newcastle, plus it's unlicensed so take your own booze. used to be scruffy but very posh and modern now, their food simply isn't bettered in the north east.

I think Fred? pizzas are the best pizzas in Newcastle ... there soooo addictive ... don? take my word for it try it for yourself ..ENJOY

If you like seafood you have to try it here. They also have deals on sometimes. The only problem was i had to leave some, their was to much to eat.

Everything you want in a local takeaway, friendly service and always good craic from Goran no favour too big from the man

One of the only eating establishments in Newcastle to be recommended by CoeliacUK. Gluten free and veggie menu superb - service a little slow but atmosphere superb!

My Partner and I both agreed this was by far the best restaurant of its kind we had visited. The menu was extensive with many variations of regional dishes. The venison cooked with chillis and tomato was fantastic! The food overall was well presented and the staff very attentive. At £73 being the total cost for two (including £23 for a bottle of Chablis) I considered this good value for the location. I will be returning.

went for dinner to el coto recommended to me by some friends was not disappointed , such great atmosphere staff very friendly , food very tasty great value for money its a must try !!!

Friendly staff and good service

Only £10 per person for banquet meal on an evening, which includes prawn crackers, soup, shredded duck with pancakes, main course with egg fried rice, the KING PRAWNS are huge and delicious, and the curry is fantastic, worth every penny

Really good pizza and excellent childrens meal deal. Thoroughly recommended for a family lunch or early evening.

I wasn't looking forward to going in to this restaurant, however to my surprise this restaurant does provide a great dining experience. The waiting staff and managers were all very attentive and friendly. The food was reasonably priced and the quality was surprisingly good too. I would recommend this restaurant for either a party or a quick lunch. 8/10

A great setting on the quayside with a tardis-like interior! Food is always good, with some lovely specials usually available. Always enjoyed it here, and excellent for larger parties. Occasionally have trouble getting through to book though, but worth the effort!

About to return for my second visit here, having been very impressed the first time! Delicious food and a lovely restaurant with friendly staff. Quality find.

Excellent service and the restaurant was lovely and relaxing. The food was excellent from the garlic bread and olives to the gorgeous desserts. Authentic Italian food with a modern twist, it will be hard to decide what to have. I would recommend the goats cheese starter, any main pizza or pasta and the banoffee pie as a dessert. Can't wait to go again!

Love nandos... nice atmosphere for a chain style place... the food's tasty and inexpensive. Always have a good time in here!