Ah, Italy; a boot-shaped beauty that's got some of the world's finest food, all made using the freshest of local ingredients, at its heart. There's a reason why this country's cuisine often makes it into people's top three favourites list - think Neapolitan pizzas, delicious seafood from the coast and Tuscany's famous steaks. Uncover the very best Italian restaurants Newcastle has waiting for you by looking through our guide, from Quayside to the city centre and beyond.
Last edited by Marcus Sanigar
Last updated on 21st January 2026
Head over to ASK Italian Metro Centre for a wallet-friendly Italian dining experience. Conveniently situated in the heart of Newcastle, it's the perfect laid-back pitstop after a day of shopping.
You'll find fiery Calabria pizzas topped with 'nduja and goat's cheese up for devouring, along with delicious calzones stuffed with pepperoni, ham, beef, and red wine ragu. Kick things off with pesto and cheese dough bites though, or tempt yourself with some bruschetta.
Enjoy the inviting atmosphere at ASK Italian Newcastle in Grey's Quarter, where modern design meets traditional Italian flavours.
With a hand-painted mural as a backdrop, it's the perfect spot for gathering with friends, family, or a cosy date night. Dive into fresh pizzas, pasta, and delightful desserts like toffee sundaes and tiramisu.
If there's one thing we all love about Italian food, it's the pizza, so that's where Pizza Dough Co in Gosforth comes in. Ideal for families due to also being home to soft play, sensory and Netflix chill-out areas, this restaurant will fill the whole group up on chicken Caesar salads, kid-sized slices, and the likes of Korean spiced beef or 'nduja and burrata toppings for the adults.
Serving up fantastic Italian fare since the 1980s, Francesca's is a certified local legend. Owners Thomas and Val make you feel right at home, guiding you to the snug bar for a drink until your table is ready.
Inside its warm and rustic restaurant, you'd be forgiven for thinking you're in Napoli rather than Newcastle. Take your pick from all kinds of heaty classics, from pizzas, pastas and risottos to prime cuts of meat and perfectly prepared seafood.
Portofino has been serving hearty Italian dishes from its beautiful Grade-II listed home for over 20 years. Everything about this place oozes character, from the ornate archways and original tiles to its fresh pastas and wood-fired pizzas.
Perfect for special occasions and casual dinners alike, owners Sergio and Sylvia create a fun, friendly, family atmosphere. With a packed and time-tested menu, every dish is a standout, from the spaghetti polpette to the quattro formaggi.
When it comes to traditional Italian restaurants in Newcastle, Sardinian spot Fratelli has to be right up there. Found outside of the city's heart in Ponteland, it offers an authentic taste of cuisine from the island at a family-run venue. Think seabass fillet with a creamy clam and samphire sauce or a risotto-like traditional Sardinian paella with chicken, salami, prawns, mussels, clams, cherry tomatoes, peppers, peas and saffron. If you're going for a real show-stopping meal with a group, then pre-order the slow-cooked suckling pig - a special occasion delicacy. It'll be served in the middle of the table to share with roast potatoes and salad.
