NE1 Reviews: Zucchini Pasta Bar

We're looking forward to the weekend here at NE1 - not only is work  out, but it’s time for a work-out with the Great North Run. But hey, even the greats have to fuel up ahead of those major events. That’s why we’ll be filling up with a hearty helping of fresh pasta ahead of the big day.

We’ve done the hard work for you and picked out a must-try newbie that’s landed on the 55 Degrees North roundabout. Whether you’re gearing up to run the route, or preparing to cheer from the sidelines, we know you’ll enjoy Zucchini.

It’s a casual spot and the concept is simple - beautiful, hand rolled, fresh egg pasta to be served to the beautiful people of NE1. 

Producing sheets of golden hand rolled pasta everyday with love, it’s all about serving up plates of wholesome, Italian soul food. 

Alan Barker is the chef behind the perfect pasta concept - he’s incredibly welcoming and he’s happy to chat to diners as he works his magic in the open kitchen behind the counter. 

Seated and watered, we’re wowed by the pasta-filled menu, even learning snippets of Italian history as we go. Did you know the humble noodle was first recorded as early as 1154 by an Arabian geographer called Al-Idrisi, while staying in Trabia in Sicily? You do now, and you’re in for more where that came from if you hit up Zucchini.

I opt for the pappardelle ‘6 hour’ beef shin and rosemary ragu - a bowl of braised beef goodness with tomato, red wine and rosemary. It’s the tastiest pasta I’ve had in a long time and I scoop up every last mouthful with a side of sourdough bread. Happy to see many a gluten free option on the menu, my dinner date tries the pappardelle amatriciana - guanciale, tomato, white wine, chilli and pecorino. This scrumptious spaghetti dish has a subtle spice so it’s sure to keep you warm as you line the streets.

What’s more? The sweet stuff here is great too. The mint and dark chocolate truffles are a must-try - topped with a soft candy floss that could be mistaken for the fluffiest wool. Go on, you know you want to!

If you don’t manage to get here ahead of the Great North Run, we think it works just as well as a post-marathon treat. We’ll have one of everything!

More info? Check out: zucchinipastabar.co