Al Baraka artisan bakery and patissiere. Big Lamp

Technically I guess this is on Elswick Road (opposite the cemetery), but it's on the cusp of the Summerhill area and the Big Lamp junction, on the cusp of being trendy and it deserves to do well.

I'd spotted Al Baraka some time ago but always bottled out of visiting.  Could a woman visit?  Was this a male dominated environment?  Today, however, I decided to throw caution to the wind and have the baklava moment I'd promised myself.  I parked opposite and strode purposefully into the shop.

It's very light and open inside (huge windows) and the paintwork is white with bright, fresh green touches.  The furniture, light pine tables mostly.  All notices are written in Turkish and there is a quotation from the Koran (I assume) over the counter.  I felt slightly embarrassed and unsure of myself but ordered coffee and cake.  One of the men sitting at a table was very helpful in explaining what was in each and also explained the savoury dishes.  He assured me that Turkish cuisine was infinitely superior to that of their near neighbours and I have to say the menu was interesting and intriguing.  I'd definitely go back for the filo pastries and the scone breads with feta and other fillings.  A local called in to buy some to take away - good idea!

I sat and watched the world go by in the rain as I enjoyed my mug of coffee (only £1) and ate my baklava - very sticky but knife and fork and napkin provided!

So, another little jewel in Newcastle's culinary crown shines brightly.  Worth seeking out.

Ciao Ciao, Milburngate, Durham

This one came highly recommended, not least for the sell-off bread, so during my Sunday afternoon mooch round Durham I thought I'd give it a try.

I'd passed Ciao Ciao before but assumed it was a bakery and takeaway, however on closer inspection there are tables with bar stool seating inside.  I have to report that the seat I sat on had a very ripped cushion and as I was wearing an unsuitable dress it wasn't easy to get on and off.  That said, you can people-watch to your heart's content through the big corner windows!

I ordered a coffee, which was a standard latte in a no-frills cardboard cup.  I bought cakes to take away and the macaroons (almond, pistachio) were wonderful.  There were baklava and other delights, but I have baklava plans for somewhere in Newcastle, and I wouldn't have wanted to miss the macaroons anyway.

I did buy some reduced price bread as this week's treat for home.  Foccacio.  Olives involved I think.  Very enjoyable toasted.

The staff member was a cheerful, efficient and friendly girl who,  in the few minutes I was there, dealt with customers from all over the world with unremitting interest and politeness.

Go for the cake, go for the bread, but if you're planning on eating in - wear jeans.