Introducing...Grey Owl

Grey Owl is a recent arrival on Grey Street – surely Newcastle’s grandest thoroughfare – taking its place a stone’s throw from Newcastle Theatre Royal. Opening back in early June, its ethos seems to be all about keeping it simple and very, very classy, as general manager Dani Atkinson confirms. “I see it as an American bistro bar (although others say they get a French vibe!). For me, it’s very grand and beautiful and it definitely brightens up Grey Street.” A sister venue to Hibou Blanc just around the corner on High Bridge Street, Grey Owl has the same emphasis on quality and class and Atkinson explained that the two venues work closely together.

Grey Owl’s modest frontage belies quite a large and varied space – as well as the pavement area which is in a prime people-watching location, there’s a main downstairs area, a mezzanine and a champagne room and snug upstairs, each with its own distinctive vibe.  

Grey Owl offers a brunch menu from 8am to 4pm. As well as an extensive selection of egg dishes and brunch classics from Turkish eggs with yoghurt, chilli butter and mint to Eggs Royale with hollandaise and salmon, and even a dish of harissa beans with honey-glazed halloumi. There’s fruit salad, muesli and porridge if you want to keep things light, and some tempting pastries too.

And from midday till 8pm there’s a range of really appealing sharing boards ranging from £15 for a selection of crudités up to £22 for a really tempting charcuterie selection (including gems like coppa, mortadella and some Guindilla chillies). There’s a British cheese selection with specialities like Sheep Rustler and Ashlynn goats cheese, a vegan board and a selection of breads. There’s also some seafood available – oysters are £3 each, or you could order some smoked salmon on sourdough.

As you’d expect, Grey Owl has a well-chosen wine and champagne list and an extensive selection of classic cocktails, some with a twist (like a White Sangria or a Strawberry Mule).

Grey Owl is open from 8am – late every day, check their Facebook page for offers and updates. It’s also available for private hire.