A former industrial hub that has now become a trendy hotspot for bars, restaurants and live music, Ouseburn is home to some of the North East's best hidden gems. One such destination is Kiln, a cafe, bar and bakery all in one. Like many businesses in the area, it has taken over a former garage, keeping the slightly edgy feel of the area in tact.
It began in 2017 as a pottery studio which sold coffee on the side, but over the years their food and drink offering has expanded, to the point where the venue is now half dining space, half pottery studio. There's a dedicated bakery on-site where they make their bread and cakes fresh on a daily basis, and they're dedicated to serving only the very best local produce. Though I have sampled a lot of Newcastle's food scene, I had yet to visit this neighbourhood favourite, so I was excited to have the opportunity recently.
DesignMyNight’s Review Of Kiln Cafe Newcastle
This Ouseburn venue is open from morning to evening.
Need To Know:
- Address: 4 Hume St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 1LN
- Area: Ouseburn
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern, baked goods
Ambience & We Think Perfect For
- Atmosphere: nailing the Ouseburn vibe without a hint of pretentiousness, the all-day venue had a cool, laid-back vibe to it. As we entered, we were met with a tempting array of homemade cakes and other goods (spoiler, we came back for these), before being led to our table. The interiors were largely made up of wood and concrete, with lots of their own pottery used both as decorations and to serve the food on. Though we visited during the day, i can see how it would transition nicely to a bar come the evening too.
- Perfect For: brunch, coffee and cake, evening drinks with small plates.
Service & Price
- Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Value For
Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Cost: around £50 for two mains, two cakes and four drinks
Find mezze plates and baked goods on the Kiln menu.
Menu Highlights
Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
We came at 1.30pm, the sweet spot where they're serving both their brunch and lunch menus. They also offer an evening menu, so be sure to check what will be on offer at your time of booking. It's also worth noting that their dishes change on a regular basis, so you're likely to find something new every time.
- Mezze platter (£15.50) - a selection of bites that changes daily, this sharing dish can be modified to serve any number of people. We ordered a one-person portion as we were having other things too, but it was still a very hearty serving. It featured hummus, a bold purple beetroot dip and a pureed carrot option that was slightly sweet and very smooth. The dips came with their homemade pitas and focaccia, as well as mixed olives and moreish chunks of tahini-coated cauliflower.
- Shakshuka (£14) - a classic Middle eastern/Mediterranean brunch option, this nourishing bowl of braised eggs, red zhoug, peppers and tomatoes came with seasoned yoghurt and more pita for dipping. It was absolutely packed full of flavour, and the eggs were cooked to perfection as the yolks popped open over the tomato-based mixture.
- Pistachio and raspberry cake (cake prices vary) - the selection of cakes changes daily, and we were spoiled for choice today. We both opted for this pistachio option, which was bright green, very fluffy and coated with a creamy raspberry icing - finished with a mini chocolate egg. The slices they gave us were truly enormous, so come hungry, and you'll definitely get your money's worth.
Drink: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Freshly squeezed orange (£4.50) - a refreshing start to the meal, this fresh juice was zesty and tasted delicious.
- Hot chocolate (£4) - as a coffee hater, i opted for this with my cake instead, and it was a great accompaniment - it was not too sweet, topped with frothed milk and chocolate powder.
Our Overall Experience At Kiln Ouseburn
DesignMyNight Review Out Of 5: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I had heard good things about Kiln Cafe Ouseburn in the past, and my visit definitely confirmed that they were true. there was a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that suited an all day venue, and it was great to see them baking things as we ate. Each dish was fresh and flavourful, and they really nailed the Middle eastern flavours while still featuring local produce. They change up what's on offer every day too, so I would love to return and try even more of their creations.
