We all love a bit of half-time Bovril, but if you’re looking to upgrade to something a little more substantial, prepare like the mags themselves and indulge in a pre-match meal. From the best match-day deals to eateries just a football’s throw from the stadium, we’ve rounded up a whole team of flavoursome footie feasts.
SHARK CLUB GASTRO BAR
A sports bar feels very appropriate for a match day meal, and luckily Newcastle is home to a fab one in the form of Shark Club Gastro Bar. Soak up the sporty surroundings and treat yourself to a banquet of chicken wings, nachos, a burger or a pizza. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, make sure you stick around for dessert, with cheesecake, chocolate cake and chocolate cookie skillet all on the mouthwatering menu.
Sandman Signature Hotel, Heber Street, www.sharkclub.com
RED MEZZE
Red Mezze has everything going for it for Geordie foodies – amazing flavours, a buzzing atmosphere, and, most importantly, it’s just round the corner from Gallowgate. Located in Leazes Square, the restaurant offers some of the Toon’s finest Turkish delights, from shish kebabs to burgers and paninis, all made using traditional Eastern recipes. The quickest way to travel from Tyneside to Turkey and be back in time for kick off.
34-36 Leazes Park Road, www.restaurantturkish.co.uk
RUB SMOKEHOUSE
Rub Smokehouse is a true friend to footie fans, with a friendly 15% off food on match days so you can grab a bargain bite before the game. The restaurant is a meat-lover’s dream, with plenty of corn dogs, pigs in blankets, burgers and crackling to choose from. Grab a pint or two if you’re not driving– after all, you’ll have more than lined your stomach…
The Gate, Newgate Street, www.rubsmokehouse.com
EL COTO
Another little gem that’s close enough to St James’ to tuck into some food before the game begins is El Coto. Sure, Spanish cuisine isn’t the food you most often associate with football, but we’re not letting that stop us. A hearty portion of paella, or hot and cold tapas if you just fancy a nibble. Throw in a cosy interior as the nights draw in and we’re sold.
21 Leazes Park Road, www.elcoto.co.uk
REDHOUSE
Keep it traditional with a good old match day pie over at Redhouse, the cosy quayside eatery that’s been stealing Northerners’ hearts for years. The best bit? You can enjoy a pie and a pint for just £9.95 every Monday, or two meals for £12 every Wednesday. Now we're back in the big time, make the most of the Monday Night Football with a pre-match pie at Rehouse.
32 Sandhill, www.theredhousencl.co.uk
