Cafe Under The Spire — Restaurant in Gateshead

Came here for first time today after reading excellent reviews. First impressions not good - outdoor seating area a bit of a mess - scrubby and weed filled grass, tables and chairs have seen better days, ashtray full on the next table, and there were Calor gas bottles in place to cordon off an area of grass. The next building along is what looks like a bail hostel with patrons using the grounds of the cafe as a short cut. Prices are steep - £12 for a breakfast is an example. The table was dirty and had to ask twice to have it wiped (which was done AFTER food arranged). It just didn’t look good. I ordered a hot roast chicken sandwich and a coke. My guest ordered something different but with tea. Cup of Tea is listed as £1.80 in the menu but they were charged £3 as they requested a pot. No price for a pot on the menu. When i looked at the receipt, I had been overcharged (which was refunded on request). When My food came out it was covered in gravy, no mention of that in the menu. That wasn’t so much the problem - it was that the sandwich contained so much pepper in it that it took my breath away. I left about 3/4 of it uneaten. Complained and nothing else was offered instead/ no refund offered. About 5 minutes later, waitress came and asked if there was anything else i wanted. I said no, I just want a refund. “Sorry, we don’t do refunds”. Considering my meal was not as described in the menu and was absolutely vile, I think the least they could do was refund me. I asked if there was a manager, only to be told “Theres the bloke who does the mirrors - he’s the owner”. I asked for him but 5 minutes later he hadn’t shown. Tired of waiting, i left. The staff couldn’t have cared any less if they tried. My review of this place? Never again. If I could give it minus stars, I would....

Cafe Under the Spire A Tranquil Boho Escape with Divine Cuisine Nestled within the walls of a beautifully repurposed church, Cafe Under the Spire offers an experience that’s both serene and indulgent. The moment you step inside, the calming boho decor—an eclectic mix of earthy tones, soft lighting, and vintage accents—invites you to unwind. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of rustic charm and contemporary comfort, making it an ideal spot for a quiet coffee, a leisurely brunch, or an intimate gathering with friends. But it’s not just the ambiance that enchants; the food here is nothing short of divine. The menu boasts a thoughtful selection of dishes that are as beautiful to look at as they are to eat. From artisanal sandwiches and fresh salads to decadent pastries and expertly brewed coffee, every bite is a testament to the cafe’s commitment to quality and creativity. Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, there’s something on the menu to satisfy every palate. What sets Cafe Under the Spire apart is its ability to make you feel at home, even in such a unique setting. The staff are warm, attentive, and clearly passionate about what they do, adding to the overall sense of calm that permeates the space. If you’re looking for a place to relax, reflect, and enjoy some truly exceptional food, this hidden gem is well...

Party of 9, I called the day before and they said they had no bookings and to just turn up.

We ordered drinks (cans of pop) and then I went to the till and ordered food. It took so long that after 45 minutes waiting, we were given complimentary drinks.

Eventually some food turned up. The menu had said Pan Fried Salmon, chips and shallots. A salmon salad was given and we said we didn't order that and they were happy to change it to chips.

During that time, 4 pies and chips turned up. The pies were all still FROZEN SOLID in the middle and I took one back to the till to show the staff. It's now an hour and a half into our visit. The waitress said she didn't know why the food was frozen and offered to reheat it (no thanks). 3 dishes still haven't arrived from the kitchen.

They asked us if we would wait and they would start again but at 90 minutes in, we said no thanks and left (we didn't pay).

I appreciate the quirky venue (though the water dripping in through the front windows and soaking one of our chairs wasn't good).

The waitress was polite but the food and how run down the front right-hand room was, was simply awful. The guy on the till who took the order simply got it wrong (we didn't even see salmon salad on the menu or online).

We won't be...