Castaways Tea Shop | Cafe | Breakfast | Lunch — Restaurant in England

Cafe Review: A Coastal Gem in Whitley Bay

Nestled along the stunning coastline of Whitley Bay, this beachfront cafe is nothing short of a hidden gem. With its prime location offering unobstructed views of the North Sea, the cafe provides a perfect blend of scenic beauty and culinary delight. It’s an ideal spot for both locals and visitors who seek a tranquil yet vibrant place to relax, eat, and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

The cafe’s atmosphere is one of its most compelling features. From the moment you step in, you're greeted by the warm and inviting decor that mirrors the coastal charm of Whitley Bay. The interior is a harmonious mix of rustic and modern elements, with weathered wood, soft lighting, and nautical accents. Large windows ensure that the view of the beach is always within sight, making it a perfect place to unwind whether you're sitting inside or on the spacious outdoor terrace.

The ambiance is relaxed yet lively, with the sound of waves crashing in the background adding to the overall serene environment. The staff contribute significantly to the welcoming atmosphere, offering friendly and attentive service without being overbearing. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a long, leisurely meal, the cafe manages to make everyone feel right at home.

Food and Drink

The menu is a delightful mix of classic British favourites and contemporary dishes, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Breakfast is particularly popular, with options ranging from hearty full English breakfasts to lighter choices like avocado toast and granola with fresh berries. The pastries are freshly baked daily, and the scones served with clotted cream and jam are a must-try.

For lunch, the cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and more substantial meals. The seafood chowder, made with local catch, is rich and flavourful, providing a perfect complement to the coastal setting. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. The portions are generous, and each dish is presented with care, reflecting the cafe’s commitment to quality.

The coffee here is another highlight. Sourced from a local roastery, it’s robust and full of flavour, making it an excellent accompaniment to any meal. The cafe also offers a range of teas, smoothies, and freshly squeezed juices. For those in the mood for something stronger, there’s a carefully curated selection of wines, beers, and even cocktails.

Service and Experience

The service at this Whitley Bay cafe is exceptional. The staff are knowledgeable about the menu and are more than happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. They are attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that your experience is both comfortable and memorable. The cafe also caters to families, with a children’s menu and high chairs available, making it a great spot for a family outing.

One of the standout aspects of the cafe is its community feel. Many of the patrons are regulars, and there’s a sense of camaraderie that pervades the space. It’s the kind of place where you can come alone and still feel like part of the local scene, whether you’re enjoying a book, working on your laptop, or simply watching the world go by.

Conclusion

In summary, this beachfront cafe in Whitley Bay is a true treasure. Its combination of breathtaking views, delectable food, and outstanding service makes it a must-visit for anyone in the area....

I was so disappointed with this cafe today & will never go back due to the poor customer service. I went with a friend for lunch. We were shown to a table for 6 people as there were no smaller tables available. After 30 mins it got busy & we were told we'd have to share the table with another couple which we weren't really happy to do as it's a small room anyway & we were having a an in-depth conversation. The waitress could tell that we weren't enthused by this suggestion & then preceeded to tell us that everyone always shares, in a less than friendly tone. The owner then came out & made us feel very uncomfortable by questionning our feelings, and then spoke detrimentally about us to the other customers & staff whilst shaking her head!! We felt so uncomfortable that we said we'd pay & leave earlier than planned & that they could have the table. We were made to feel like we were in the wrong by all the staff who gave no apology for any inconvenience. So disappointed - especially for my friend who has been a frequent customer to castaways in the past...but not anymore! Poor poor service, from the owner to all the staff who dealt with us. Such a disappointment. Good service is the expected norm & isn't raved about, but when you have such a poor experience, you go on telling everyone & anyone who will listen months after...

Dog Friendly but not customer friendly. Three sometimes four or five of us every Wednesday go for breakfast and have done for years even before the new owners took over. This week we were shown to a table for three but next to a dog (nothing against them) allergic and prefer not to if another table is free which there was. Every week there are two seperate individuals sitting on two tables of four. This week one of them wasnt there so asked if we could sit on the empty table. Quite aggressively were told no it was a table for four and we were three and was shown another table for three the other side of the dog. When I pointed out that she had already set a precedent of having one individual on a table for four and does every week then surely a three would be fine. After all there was no queue. She didnt like my attitude apparently perhaps it was my logic. We have put up with staff fondling dogs and having to ask them to sanitise there hands before serving our food as they hadnt, we have even had our order forgotten two weeks ago. Everyone makes mistakes but we cant forgive the attitude I presume of the owner to us yesterday. Her behaviour was totally unprofessional and sorry to say after this we shall...