Most Saturdays I have plans. I’m here there and everywhere so last Saturday when I had no plans I was at a loss, well that’s not strictly true. My mum and Grandma have Football Saturday lunches. Whilst my Granda is at St James’ watching the MIGHTY Newcastle more often than not lose. The two most important ladies in my life lunch.
I tagged along this weekend and we hit Fenwick’s Food Hall (who do I think I am, twice in a week?). We decided to find a table at the stunning, modern but rustic looking Mason + Rye. The ladies both opted for Americanos and chicken, bacon and lettuce baguettes.
Is Mason + Rye the best brunch spot in Newcastle?
They were packed full of tender looking chicken and rich thick bacon. I was impressed and that’s even coming from a pescatarian! However, ogling at the other items they had in the chiller cabinet I liked the look of the rigatoni pasta salad with a balsamic glaze and the sweet potato wedges.
I stuck to what I knew however. With being on a strict diet and avoiding gluten and wheat due to eating too much the night before. Opting for the same lunch from The Naked Deli I had earlier in the week. You can read all about it here.
Mason + Rye & people watching
Mason + Rye is enchanting. We managed to get a seat right in the corner which was ideal for people watching. The hustle and bustle of the constant flow through the Foo
d Hall becomes virtually unnoticeable. With a relaxing atmosphere within the eatery. Pretty, wild looking flowers are placed on the table and comfy booth style seating. The time flew as we enjoyed lunch, and a couple of rounds of tea and coffee, whilst checking the Newcastle score every so often.
Related Read: Terry Laybourne taking over Fenwick Newcastle
Upon sitting chatting and people watching we noticed that the service of hot food could do with better organisation. The waitresses were frequently seen pacing up and down loo
king for the food’s rightful owners. If I hadn’t of just enjoyed Cajun Swordfish and an Avocado Chocolate Torte I’d have gladly claimed all the food going past! My eyes are certainly bigger than my belly!
It hit 3 o’clock and out of the corner of our eyes we spotted an afternoon tea being delivered to a table nearby on a piece of driftwood. We couldn’t stop staring. The three generations looked at each other and we all agreed that we were having that next Football Saturday.
Mason + Rye, located in Fenwick’s iconic Food Hall in Newcastle, is a must visit for anyone with a passion for artisanal cakes and pastries. Nestled in the heart of one of the UK’s finest food halls, Mason + Rye combines an elegant atmosphere with an irresistible selection of baked goods that showcase the best of modern patisserie.
A Decadent Selection of Cakes and Pastries
One of the first things you’ll notice at Mason + Rye is the display of cakes, tarts, and pastries, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail. From delicate éclairs topped with glossy chocolate to fruit tarts that are bursting with fresh, seasonal fruits, every item looks like a work of art. Their signature creations, like the layered Mille-Feuille and the rich Chocolate Ganache Tart, are perfect for anyone seeking a luxurious treat. For those who love something lighter, Mason + Rye offers buttery croissants, pain au chocolat, and light almond slices that are ideal with a mid-morning coffee.
Afternoon Tea on Driftwood
The pièce de résistance at Mason + Rye is undoubtedly their afternoon tea, which arrives not on a traditional tiered stand but on a striking piece of driftwood. This whimsical presentation enhances the experience and adds a unique, rustic charm that complements the venue’s decor. The afternoon tea selection features a tempting array of finger sandwiches, scones served with clotted cream and jam, and a range of petite cakes and pastries. It’s a feast for the senses and makes for the perfect indulgence on a lazy Saturday afternoon, especially when paired with a pot of their loose-leaf tea or expertly brewed coffee.
Why Fenwick’s Food Hall is an Essential Visit
Fenwick’s Food Hall is much more than a place to grab a bite; it’s an experience that brings together the best in local and international culinary delights. Known for its curated selection of gourmet food, Fenwick’s Food Hall offers everything from artisanal cheeses to freshly prepared meals, making it a haven for food lovers. Each corner of the hall tells a different culinary story, allowing visitors to explore everything from locally sourced produce to luxury chocolates, all in one location. Mason + Rye’s stunning patisserie adds a touch of sophistication and creativity that perfectly complements the Food Hall’s atmosphere.
Mason + Rye: The Perfect Spot for Every Occasion
Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet coffee, a weekend brunch, or an indulgent afternoon tea, Mason + Rye delivers. Its modern yet rustic interior provides the perfect ambiance for people-watching or simply relaxing with friends and family. The soft, comfortable seating, beautiful flower arrangements, and exceptional service make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
If you’re planning a trip to Newcastle, be sure to stop by Fenwick’s Food Hall and treat yourself to Mason + Rye’s indulgent cakes and pastries. It’s a slice of pastry paradise and a place that elevates any visit to Newcastle.
Pin me for later
