Gateshead
Porky's Low Fell

Porky's Low Fell

168 Kells Lane, Gateshead, United Kingdom, NE9 5HU

Pizza • Steak • Waffles • Barbecue


"Just been for a Sunday lunch at porky’s with my family. We were 8 people and it was a bit of a disaster start to finish. The service here is normally pretty good but today despite having 7 waiters on for 8 tables it was diabolical. They were very slow to take our order and then announced that they had run out of almost all items on the main menu (no pork, no bbq sauce, no shrimp, no nachos). It took 3 trips to the kitchen by the waitress to establish what was left and we placed our order. 15 mins later they return again to say all the starters we had ordered were out of stock. It was 20 mins before our simple drinks order arrived. Yet more faffing ensued and we eventually got our replacement starters 1hr after arriving. It was then a further 1hr before any mains which trickled out over around 15 mins. In the time we were waiting dozens of takeaway orders were processed and sent out. The staff seemed to have no idea what they were delivering and repeatedly returned to the pass to clarify. The cutlery wasn’t replenished after our starters and no further drinks orders taken despite long empty glasses. The food itself was ok but nothing special. The Yorkshire puddings were so dry they were inedible. They seemed to have been kept in a big batch under the heat lamps and no one seemed to question why everyone in the restaurant was sending theirs back uneaten. The manager was sat in the corner of the restaurant throughout and at no point did he lift a finger to help his struggling staff. When we complained the waitress repeatedly went to talk to the manager who never came to speak to us himself to apologise. We asked for a reduction in the bill and eventually agreed on around 50% being taken off. Overall this was an incredibly frustrating meal that in no way reflected the usually high standard of food or service. The whole experience was worsened by the fact the management appeared to be witnessing the whole thing and just not caring or making any attempt to rescue the situation. Had a booking to go back with a group of friends later this week but will be cancelling and giving this place a wide berth for a while."

The Engine Room

The Engine Room

Rockcliffe Way, NE9 7YJ, Gateshead, United Kingdom

Pubs • Full • Steak • Lunch


"Went for Sunday lunch. My wife and I both have mobility problems and informed them of this at the time of booking. They said that they would make allowance for this. When we arrived we had to go up 3 steps to get to our seat. We were able to do this but they did not ask if we could do this. We were seated and waiting for someone to come take our order when we noticed a sign saying that orders must be placed at the bar. I made my way to the bar and had to negotiate around tables then down the 3 steps, then I had to pass by people in a narrow hall who were carrying their drinks. This was difficult as I cannot walk in a straight line and am unsteady on my feet. When I ordered I asked the barman to bring my drinks to the table which he did willingly. I asked for a lamb and beef and asked whether they would be able to put some of each on our plates. They said we would have to do this ourselves as the chef was too busy. This is also the reason they were not serving food outside. It was a lovely day and they were turning business away as they were too busy to serve food at the outdoor tables. The food was delicious (apart from the mashed potato). The meat was so tender and tasty. When I went to pay I tried to explain to the barman about the difficulties and lack of awareness but he couldn’t spare me a second as he was walking away from me rather than listen. Poor customer service especially to disabled customers. Nobody came to check whether we were enjoying our meal or whether we would like another drink. I also noticed that they cleared tables ready for the next guests and put a high chair in place for a child. They are good at preparing for children but not disabled customers."

Handmade Burger Co. Gateshead Metrocentre

Handmade Burger Co. Gateshead Metrocentre

48a Garden Walk, Gateshead I-NE11 9XZ, United Kingdom

Vegan • British • American • Vegetarian


"I visited Wagamama in the Metro Centre on 7th May 2022, it was my first time in any Wagamama despite several attempts to get there, it was a Child free weekend so we thought we would take the opportunity and give it a whirl. While lining up to get into the restaurant a man was handing out menus and took the time to speak to us, on being told that it was out first time there, he made several suggestions for first timers and happily spent time talking to us, it transpires that this Gent was actually the restaurant Manager (we discovered later). After only a few minute wait, we were seated and introduced to our Waiter, a nice Guy named Jack. Jack was also aware that we were first time customers and again was happy to offer advice on the menu items and also, crucially, the portion sizes. Drinks arriving quickly with the food following soon after with Jack making sure that the food arrived quickly. We followed the previous advice and ordered Duck Donburi and Chicken Teriyaki Donburi as well as the Hoisin Duck Buns as a side order. The food was incredible.....we both ate every last scrap and left the restaurant full. We then had a quick chat with the Manager who took time to re-visit our table to find out, as first time customers, what we'd ordered, what we'd thought of the food and also the service. Thankfully I was able to give him great feedback. the food, Jack who served us, everything had been 100% perfect and also confirmed with him that we would happily return to his restaurant. In fact, not 6 days later, we are already making plans to do so, the meal was THAT good. To sum up, I would and will, happily return. The restaurant was clean, the staff were friendly and the Manager seemed to take a real interest in new customers and their experience which is always a good sign. Thanks Jack and all the Team who dealt with us on our first meal there.....we will be back."