Review by Peter Hannan on 3rd June, 2005

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I have been visiting Newcastle for too many years to remember. A great City, but let`s face it, Newcastle has not been the culinary capital of the UK. On a Tuesday night recently, myself and my partner decided to try Cafe 21, as we had heard some good reports, which frankly we viewed with a degree of scepticism. We received a warm welcome on arrival. The menu choice was varied,(10-12 starters, and 12-15 main courses) and catered for every taste. There was an emphasis on fresh seasonal produce, prepared in an old-english, no-nonsence fashion. I chose the asparagus to start, my partner had the cheddar and spinach souffle. With a soft poached egg on top, and beautifully dressed, my asparagus was a delight. All I can say is, God bless the hand that made that souffle, it was to die for ! For our main course we chose prawns (and I mean big) stuffed with crabmeat, and Angus ribeye respectivly. The prawns were accompanied with a side order of mixed peas/ beans and were glorious. The ribeye steak, which was cooked to perfection, was accompanied by a side salad, and the best home-made chunky chips on this earth. The wines we chose (from a well compiled wine list), were perfect, and not over priced. The desert menu was a conondrum of puddings, and produced probably the finest sweet I have eaten. Apple crumble souffle, Wow ! This restaurant could take it`s place at the head of the list in any City in the World. On our way out, we made a reservation to come back the next night with 2 guests, it was even better ! Excluding wine the meal was £25/ head. A small price to pay for perfection. I highly recommend you eat there. Peter.

Date visited: 31/5/05