I've had company this week so it's been a bit of a week for eating and drinking out. So, before I talk about the featured eatery, let me just list the other places I've been: Morrisons in South Shields; Head of Steam railway museum cafe, Darlington; The Gallery cafe, Wilkinsons in Newcastle and last but by no means least - Pepi and Libby's cafe in Elswick Road. This was nearly this week's choice but tea and a Kit Kat does not do justice to their menu of English, Filipino and Oriental food so I will report later, building on my early positive impressions.
So, the Hancock, latte and cake for two,what could be simpler? We arrived at the first floor entrance eventually, having walked up the wrong staircase and needing to cross the upstairs gallery admiring the many and varied stuffed animals on display as we went. We ignored the 'please wait to be seated' sign and strolled in as no one was there to actually seat us. Our crime remained undiscovered until we tried to order at the counter where a table number was required. I bagged a table and waited while it was cleaned and food arrived etc. Maybe half term week was a mistake on our part as it was very busy and noisy. Most people appeared to be ordering drinks and snacks, although the menu boasted main meals and wine. Pricey, we thought, for a small cafe where the plates are swiped from under your nose as soon as you have finished.
In short, our opinion was that the first floor cafe had a identity crisis. Was it only for light refreshments? No, surely that was the street cafe downstairs? Was it a quieter atmosphere for a light lunch of a reasonable standard? Then why offer snacks? You really wouldn't choose to go there for a £7 steak sandwich and wine, well not in half term anyway.
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