One real plus about the job I'm in is that I'm frequently recommended new places to try. One such recommendation is Oli & Joe's, a fun, Italian restaurant which lies to the North of Gosforth High Street.
Whilst this restaurant may be small, it’s carving out a big reputation which has subsequently led to sister venues opening in Ryton, Sunniside, Westerhope and Whickham. This family-friendly restaurant does happy hour fayre very well alongside a selection of risottos, steaks, chicken and seafood dishes. The upstairs eatery has been impeccably furnished and really looks the part with its exposed brickwork and chequered, bistro table cloths.
The restaurant lies within walking distance of a number of good hostelries which we sampled first before our meal. On arrival, the welcome was warm and friendly as we were shown to our corner table.
Whilst the dining area may be small, this only enhances the ambience. The snug, cosy aspect made it the perfect place to unwind on a cold winter’s evening. Since Lisa and I don’t really get out much, we kicked off with an excellent bottle of Chianti Classico.
Also very good were the starters which arrived swiftly after; white wine & garlic mussels for Lisa and the potato skins for yours truly. Smartly presented on the plate, these looked great and tasted even better, polished off with true Grahamslaw aplomb.
Lisa’s diet has really hit the ground running in 2018 and she was pleased to find a menu which would appease the calorie gods. She followed up with the Pollo Italia; Tender chicken breast topped with asparagus spears in a Dolcelata cream sauce. Whilst I devoured an incendiary Pizza Vesuvio no surprises there! Our expectations were high and indeed, matched.
Both dishes were clearly freshly prepared and boasted that telling depth of flavour.
It’s happy hour again!
More information of Oli & Joe's can be found on their website www.oli-joes.com
