Nestled on the historic quayside at 5-7 Side, Newcastle upon Tyne, Solstice by Kenny Atkinson offers an unparalleled dining experience that fuses innovation and intimacy. This exclusive restaurant, known for its seasonal and sustainable culinary practices, seats only a select few guests, ensuring a personalised and immersive journey through its acclaimed tasting menu. Kenny Atkinson, a celebrated local chef, personally welcomes diners and shares the story behind each inventive dish, creating a connection that elevates the meal beyond mere taste.
With just 12 to 14 covers, Solstice’s elegant dining room boasts crisp white tablecloths, exquisite cutlery, and ambient lighting, complemented by a thoughtfully curated music playlist that keeps the atmosphere relaxed yet refined. The 17-course tasting menu is a carefully crafted symphony of robust flavours and textures, showcasing the finest local ingredients. Signature dishes like the Smoked Eel Brandade with Chicken Skin Crackers, Lobster Tail roasted in its own oil with Yuzu Kosho Butter Sauce, and the Honey Parfait with Rye Ice Cream exemplify the kitchen’s mastery and creativity.
Solstice stands out not only for its food but also for its attentive service. The team, including Kenny himself, serves each course, explaining ingredients and preparation methods, adding depth and excitement to the meal. The wine pairings, available for an additional fee, feature bold and unexpected selections such as sake, carefully chosen to complement the diverse flavours on the menu. This meticulous attention to detail ensures guests feel valued and part of an extraordinary culinary journey.
Reviews praise Solstice for delivering an "unforgettable culinary experience" characterized by melt-in-the-mouth flavours and faultless service. Guests appreciate the intimate and relaxed vibe, often highlighting the personal touch of chefs serving and describing each dish. The community sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with diners lauding the exceptional quality, innovative tasting menu, and the cozy yet elegant ambience that makes it perfect for special occasions or food lovers seeking a remarkable meal in Newcastle.
- What is the price of the tasting menu at Solstice? The tasting menu is priced at £175 per person.
- Is a reservation required to dine at Solstice? Yes, reservations are required due to the restaurant's intimate setting with limited seating.
- Does Solstice offer wine pairings with the tasting menu? Yes, a wine pairing is available for an additional £85 per person.
- What are the operating hours of Solstice? Solstice operates Tuesday to Saturday, with lunch service on Friday and Saturday and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday.
- Is there a dress code at Solstice? While there is no formal dress code, smart casual attire is recommended to match the restaurant's ambiance.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, Solstice by Kenny Atkinson represents a pinnacle of culinary excellence. This remarkable restaurant opened its doors in the summer of 2022, quickly capturing the attention of food lovers and critics alike. Within less than a year, Solstice earned the prestigious honor of a Michelin star in March 2023 — a testament to the visionary leadership of acclaimed chef Kenny Atkinson and his dedication to refined, innovative cuisine.
The journey of Solstice is defined by remarkable milestones that highlight its rapid ascent in Newcastle's competitive dining scene. Opening in 2022, the restaurant introduced a fresh concept marked by intimate dining, inventive tasting menus, and an emphasis on seasonal, sustainable ingredients. This bold approach resonated deeply with patrons, earning glowing reviews and setting the stage for its Michelin star achievement just months later.
Solstice's charm lies not only in its exquisite dishes but also in its intimate and elegant atmosphere. With only 12 to 14 covers, every guest receives personalized attention, often greeted by Kenny Atkinson himself. This close interaction allows diners to gain insight into the preparation and inspiration behind each dish, creating a unique storytelling element to the meal.
Guests are invited to embark on an 18-course culinary journey that highlights the finest local and seasonal ingredients. Each course is paired thoughtfully with wines or innovative drinks such as sake, enhancing the depth of flavors. Dishes like lobster tail roasted in its own oil with yuzu kosho butter or the dry-aged royal squab pigeon with cherry ponzu glaze exemplify the restaurant’s dedication to bold, balanced tastes and artistic presentation.
- 2022: Solstice by Kenny Atkinson opens its doors in Newcastle upon Tyne, introducing a new culinary landmark.
- 2023: Awarded a Michelin star in March, cementing its reputation for outstanding cuisine and service.
Located at 5-7 Side, Newcastle upon Tyne, Solstice by Kenny Atkinson offers an exquisite dining experience that combines innovative cuisine with an intimate atmosphere. This restaurant, known for its commitment to sustainability and seasonality, features a meticulously crafted 18-course tasting menu that highlights the finest ingredients. With only 14 covers, guests enjoy personalized service, often from the chefs themselves, making each visit a memorable occasion.
The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, making it ideal for special occasions or a unique culinary adventure. With a focus on flavor and presentation, Solstice is a destination for food enthusiasts and those seeking a remarkable dining experience in Newcastle.
- Exceptional food quality
- Attentive and knowledgeable service
- Intimate and elegant dining atmosphere
- Commitment to sustainability and seasonality
- Innovative and beautifully presented dishes
- High price point may be prohibitive for some
- Limited seating capacity requires early reservations
- Strict allergen policies may not accommodate all dietary restrictions
This restaurant is perfect for food enthusiasts, special occasions, and intimate gatherings. Whether celebrating a birthday or enjoying a romantic dinner, Solstice offers a unique culinary experience that is sure to impress.
Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating. The restaurant does not accommodate takeout or delivery, and it is advisable to inform the staff of any dietary restrictions in advance. Expect a high-end dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Solstice by Kenny Atkinson stands out as a premier dining destination in Newcastle upon Tyne. With its exceptional food, attentive service, and intimate atmosphere, it promises a memorable experience for those willing to indulge in a culinary adventure. While the price point may be high, the quality and creativity of the dishes make it a worthwhile investment for food lovers.
Nestled along the vibrant quayside of Newcastle upon Tyne, Solstice by Kenny Atkinson is a culinary jewel that promises an unforgettable dining experience for food lovers and connoisseurs alike. This intimate restaurant, seating just 12 to 14 guests, radiates an atmosphere of refined elegance blended with a relaxed and welcoming vibe. Kenny Atkinson and his passionate team personally greet each guest, guiding them through a spectacular culinary journey that is as much about storytelling as it is about flavor. From the moment you step inside, the crisp white tablecloths, elegant cutlery, and thoughtfully curated music create a setting that is smart yet inviting — perfect for special occasions or an elevated night out in Newcastle.
The heart of Solstice lies in its extraordinary tasting menu — a 15 to 18 course feast that showcases the finest seasonal and sustainable ingredients with a focus on purity and balance. Each dish is a masterclass in simplicity and sophistication, from the luxurious smoked eel cream crowned with N25 Hybrid Caviar to the succulent dry-aged royal squab pigeon breast brushed with cherry ponzu glaze. Guests are served by the chefs themselves, who enthusiastically describe the preparation and provenance of each course, turning dinner into an immersive and educational experience.
Complementing the tasting menu is a thoughtfully curated wine pairing option, designed to elevate every bite with unexpected and bold selections. Notably, the inclusion of sake alongside classic wines adds an exciting twist to the dining journey, perfectly suited to the menu’s innovative flavors. The attentive and knowledgeable staff create a warm, friendly ambiance — ensuring guests feel valued and engaged throughout their visit. Kenny Atkinson's personal involvement, including signing menus with heartfelt messages for special celebrations, infuses the experience with a unique and memorable touch.
- Signature dishes like the Parmesan with generous truffle, lobster tail roasted in its own oil with yuzu kosho butter, and fresh redcurrants paired with yuzu caramel.
- Ideal for special occasions with an intimate setting and personalized touches, ensuring memorable celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries.
- Focus on sustainability highlighting local and seasonal ingredients with thoughtful preparation and minimal waste.
Whether you’re a local food enthusiast or a traveler searching for a remarkable gourmet destination in Newcastle, Solstice by Kenny Atkinson stands out as a beacon of culinary excellence. With its seamless blend of intimate atmosphere, refined flavors, and expert pairing of wines, this restaurant invites you to indulge in a truly distinctive dining adventure that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
