The Laundrette spins into Newcastle | NOW CLOSED

If you’ve spent any time around Central Station in Newcastle you’ll have noticed a growth over the last two years.

With the Hampton by Hilton development adding a 160 room hotel directly opposite the train station having opened early 2015. Central Oven & Shaker a pizza oven and shake bar making its name as the new kids on the block… but not for long. With the newest development to have been completed, the plush Vita Student Accommodation building for the freshers of the city to call home and The Laundrette nestled cosily on the ground floor.

Not a student? Don’t worry. It’s not a student jaunt, it has an eclectic range of ages enjoying the carbs, cocktails and atmosphere. We headed along last week to check out the brand new restaurant and bar which has built its success in both Chorlton and Manchester already on the promise of Cocktails and Carbs. Arriving in Newcastle, The Laundrette sure has Newcastle already in a spin.

Chorlton Laundretter

Named ‘The Laundrette’ simply on the basis that the owners opened the first location in a former laundrette back in Chorlton. This is where the brand was born. With decals of black and white washing machines and ladies legs on the back wall.

The menu headings incorporate the brand with ‘Pre-Wash’ which includes marinated olives and flatbreads. ‘Small Load’ such as Mussels, BBQ ribs, truffle smoked cheese fondue and chicken wings. ‘Full Load’ is for if you’re feeling hungry and includes fish & chips, roasted chicken breast and homemade lamb stew.

Arriving last week in the torrential rain to sample their carbs and cocktails. I myself looked like I have been through a quick spin.

Shaken Cocktails

Taking part in Sober for October. I’ve not touched a drop of alcohol at all thus far for the whole of October. If you know me you’ll know this is virtually unheard of! I checked out the cocktail menu and was pleasantly surprised by their selection of mocktails. Whilst everybody else divulged on cocktails I opted for the Fizz Wizz Shake (£5). Created with fresh strawberries, milk, vanilla and popping candy served over ice it was an absolute dream.

As we chatted and sipped on our drinks, sharers were brought out. With a garlic bread (£5) and a half and half tomato and cheese garlic bread (£6). The first sharing platter; smoked cheese fondue, Ventricina Salami, Prosciutto, Bresaola (£16). The next wooden platter was piled high with cured beetroot, garlic dough balls, bbq chicken wings, rubs, polenta fried mushrooms, calamari and dips (£18).

Open Kitchen

The food served was so flavoursome, it was all freshly prepared and with the open kitchen, it’s great to watch the chefs at work. Involving them in the whole atmosphere of the restaurant too which has a saxophonist playing on Friday and Saturday evenings to give an Ibiza vibe.

As we enjoyed the starters the garlic bread was super packed with garlic and absolutely perfectly cooked in The Laundrette’s pizza oven. The truffle cheese fondue is an absolute essential must have if you’re visiting, it’s thick and creamy and so mouthwatering! I’m not a lover of chicken wings or ribs, however, the mushrooms and calamari were to die for! The dips served with the second sharing platter included a garlic mayo. If you’re heading to The Laundrette with a group of friends then I highly recommend the sharing platter.

Toon Tipple

After we had finished our starters we headed to the bar where we prepared the Toon Tipple. Which has been specifically created for the Newcastle location. A twist on the Espresso Martini is served with a Brown Ale reduction giving it a real Geordie Kick. It’s served in a tin can with a Brown Ale style logo. Pua cushty wor kid!

Having shaken and not stirred our martinis we headed back, rather full from overindulging on our starters to be greeted by mains.

The #4 (£18.50) – Wagyu beef burger with sticky maple ham hock, ‘slaw and cheddar was served on a charcoal black bun. This surprisingly aesthetically looking burger (which was totally Instagram worthy) was also delicious. I absolutely love Wagyu beef, it’s just next level flavour. This burger was absolutely epic.

We also had a go at #3, the polenta fried chicken breast which was served with guacamole, chipotle aioli, mozzarella and rocket (£12.50), this tasty beef alternative was served with the best guacamole. It was something I’d not usually choose from a menu, however, I’d certainly pick this another time!

I’m still yet to find somewhere in the city that does better burgers then Meat:Stack. Although the Wagu black bun burger was amazing, it still didn’t top Meat:Stack.

We also indulged in the ground beef, mozzarella and jalapeno pizza (£10). The base was cooked to perfection (they also do gluten-free bases), the toppings were delicious and were generously coating the pizza which was great. I’ve been elsewhere where the toppings have been scarce so it’s refreshing when restaurants add a lot of topping to your pizza. Another thing I love about The Laundrette’s pizza menu is that they offer some pizzas with a tomato base and some with a Béchamel sauce for variety.

No empty spin

Both the cocktail and carbs menu is extensive and that’s not even touching the dessert menu. That’s if you can make it three spins. I certainly haven’t…yet!

There’s a great selection for vegetarians and those who eat a gluten-free diet too! I highly recommend The Laundrette for great food with great company. The atmosphere is relaxing and the location is great for pre or post night out.

Pin me for later (and get full of carbs!)