Blackfriars scoops BEST RESTAURANT in NE, in The Observer Food Awards 01/04/2006
Blackfriars has just scooped the 'Best Restaurant in the North East' in The Observer's 2006 Food Awards - voted not by the judges but the readers of the national newspaper

'All food is locally sourced and the menu changes regularly. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is extremely relaxed.'
The Independent 10 September 2005

'Every bit as recognised as its older brother, Sidneys, with an exceptional wine list and fantastic alfresco opportunities'
The Telegraph 13 August 2005

'There are few places in the North East where you'll find such interesting combinations of ingredients and where staff are so polite and knowledgeable...the fish was perfectly cooked and the sweetness of the curry worked extremely well with all the different flavours.'
Newcastle Evening Chronicle 14 January 2005

‘Andy may look a bit like Joe Ninety, but inside he’s a shark. Actually, Andy is very nice. Mr Charming. Nice to his staff, good company, unpretentious, lots of conversation… Everyone likes Andy.’
North East Exclusive August 2004 (and no, we didn’t make this up!)

‘The food is exquisite, all locally sourced and the staff are well-informed and friendly… one of the best value restaurants in Newcastle.’
The Independent July 2004

‘Blackfriars Café Bar host an excellent Sunday jazz lunch.’
The Star 24 September 2003

‘The Menu is varied and interesting… I was delighted to see they serve generous portions… and delicious sweets – sensational’ Newcastle MODE 7 September 2003

‘We were greeted, presumably, by the owner – a very chatty man with an encyclopaedic knowledge of wine… he knew his stuff and made us feel like we were guests in his house.’
The Newcastle Journal September 2003

‘We had piri-piri chicken breast with cardamom and almond pilau and grilled salmon with a green salad and bois bordran sauce… strange name but very good food.’
North East Exclusive August 2003

‘… for this menu is something of a mini-masterpiece when it come to the wine… This [wine] list is a model of its kind.’
Harpers-on-trade wine magazine January 2003 (short-listed wine list)

‘Andy and Sam Hook’s attention to detail, exhausting enthusiasm and hand-picked team has seen it receive accolade after accolade…’
The Metro 18 December 2002

‘There’s an excellent evening menu with very creative bistro-style food. I for one will be coming back.’
South Tyneside Gazette 14 May 2002

‘Blackfriars Café Bar is more than just a place to eat. Set in splendid grounds with a beautiful lawned area, it is a perfect summer venue.’
The Newcastle Journal – 8 March 2002

‘As the oldest purpose-built restaurant in the UK, [Blackfriars Café Bar] has a great atmosphere and oozes olde world charm.’
North East Times – February 2002

‘Out of nowhere, a beautiful 12th century courtyard will appear, with a manicured lawn and all the atmosphere of a costume drama film set.’
The Crack February 2002

‘… this spectacular building and outside lawns (dreamy in the summer) have been underused and underestimated, I pray Blackfriars is here to stay.’
The Metro 23 January 2002

‘With it’s mellow, relaxed atmosphere, soft lighting and friendly welcome, this is a real escape from the hustle and bustle of city life – perfect for a soothing Sunday lunch.’
Newcastle Evening Chronicle – 18 January 2002