There’s something about a good view that can take any meal up a notch. So when I heard about the highest restaurant in Newcastle, sitting on the 26th floor of the city’s very own skyscraper I knew I had to give it a go – although it did take me a year to get around to it.
Set in Newcastle’s Hadrian Tower, which was completed last year, 3sixty is a stunning restaurant with 360 degree, (I wonder where they got the name from) panoramic views over the city.
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When you enter the building you’re immediately greeted by a branded lift which takes you up to the 26th floor. I was lucky enough to go to the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai earlier this year, the world’s tallest building, but although we weren’t quite as high you’d struggle to get a better view over Newcastle.
When the lift doors open you’re greeted by a dramatic entrance desk with city skyline views behind. I was so impressed that I forgot to take a photo, so you’ll have to take my word for it.
My friend Alice and I visited on a Thursday evening so it wasn’t too busy and we were given one of the best tables in the house, looking over the city towards the Tyne and its magnificent bridges which were illuminated purple as dusk fell. You’re never going to get a bad view up there but if you can get on the side looking over the city you’re in for a treat.
When we came to place our order I chose a glass of rose wine (£4.50 for a small) and Alice went for one of their signature cocktails called the Berry Bakewell (£12), made with Disaronno, Chambord, lemon juice, syrups and egg white. The rose was a crisp, fruity zinfandel and the cocktail tasted gorgeous. We also got two glasses of prosecco since it was a treat visit.
As seems to be the done thing now the starters were branded ‘small plates’, suggesting you could probably dine tapas-style, but we opted for the normal starter and main affair. They've recently launched a new menu at 3sixty and it is certainly fit for the location.
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To start we ordered the pan-fried scallops (£12) and breaded cauliflower (£7.50), one of the vegan options. Both were beautifully presented and tasted lovely. Not being a massive cauliflower lover (it would probably be my last choice of veg for a roast) I was sceptical, but pleasantly surprised. They were lightly breaded and spiced and made for a great vegan option. The scallops were served with a leek purée and crispy bacon and were delicate and cooked perfectly.
We were struggling to decide on our mains, having gone through the menu and decided we liked the sound of everything, which is always a good sign, so opted to half-and-half.
I ordered the pan roasted duck breast (£27.50) while Alice ordered the Himalayan salt aged Rib Eye steak (£28), cooked medium rare.
The mains were again beautifully presented and tasted fantastic, cooked just right and well-seasoned. The duck came served pink with an apple and celeriac puree, roasted carrots and red wine sauce. Neither of us had had duck like this before but had fancied trying it and were impressed with the flavour of the meat. The steak was cooked just how we asked and came with the biggest tomato we had ever seen.
It would maybe have been nice to have the option of a side included for free with each meal as both came in around the £28 mark and weren’t huge portions. I am generally someone who tries not to pay too much attention to prices when out dining but I did spot one starter, baked king crab leg at £45, which did seem like a lot.
3sixty is certainly on the pricey side and a treat destination but you are paying a premium for the view and you’re not going to find a much better one in Newcastle’s City Centre. The incredible view also means 3sixty would make a perfect date night location.
If you’re planning a visit I’d suggest thinking carefully about what time you book for to maximise on the view. While it was stunning in darkness we agreed that sunset would be the best time to visit, getting the best of the day and night skylines. You don’t need to be visiting for food either, they do also have tables for drinks and a DJ on weekends.
We came away having enjoyed a night of great food, great views and great company and both agreed we would visit again.
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