Everyone loves a fancy meal and a graduation dinner is the perfect excuse to dress up and splash out (especially if your parents are paying). But after living on such a budget for three years, it can be hard to know where to eat outside of Eat4Less and Wetherspoons. Don’t fret though as here are a few great options for the big day.
Silk Room
The Silk Room restaurant is a graduation staple, and every year they put together a special graduation menu, offering 3 courses for under £30. Although the choice is limited (think meat, fish or vegetarian), it’s great value for money considering the quality of the restaurant. Silk Room also houses a champagne bar so there really is no better place for a celebration.
The Botanist
The Botanist is a go-to for any occasion and graduation dinner is no different. Whilst the food here is good quality and reasonably priced, it is eclipsed by the true stars of the show, the extensive cocktail menu and stunning views of the city. Request a table by the window or head up to the rooftop terrace to add some real atmosphere to your night (although it may be ruined because every person on your course will probably be in here).
Viva Brazil
Viva Brazil is my personal favourite and is great for families that are looking for something a little different. Take your seat and wait for the servers to bring 14 different cuts of barbecued meat to your table. Whilst they do have a vegetarian option, I would definitely only recommend this place to meat lovers (unless you want to pay £15 for some salad and bread). They even offer 2 for 1 cocktails before 8pm if you fancy a drink with dinner.
Pleased To Meet You
Another cocktail bar with an often overlooked food menu, PTMY has a huge range of gin based drinks as well as a swanky new restaurant area. Head down early to catch the 2 for £10 cocktail happy hour then stay to sample their classic British cuisine.
Longhorns
Whilst Longhorns may not scream “special occasion”, it’s a great option if you’re looking to stay in Jesmond for the evening. Whilst it may not be luxurious, the atmosphere is great and you really can’t beat piles of barbecued meat on a tray. If you’re there between Thursday and Sunday, head downstairs to the secret speakeasy and grab a drink or two from their highly talented cocktail artists.
Wherever you chose to go, or if you’re just going to get a takeaway, have a great graduation and congratulations on your degree!
Katie x
This post is in partnership with Easiliving. If you’re looking for somewhere to live after graduation, they after a great range of affordable professional lets.
