newcastlecentric

Newcastle’s Quayside has a plethora of fine Italian restaurants to choose from, so it would take a brave restaurant chain to step on their toes and try to offer something different.

Gusto has appeared next door to La Tasca where Est Est Est used to be. Living Ventures own Gusto, the same company that once owned the landmark Living Room bars, frequented by footballers and their girlfriends up and down the country.

Now that Living Room has been sold on to North East group Ultimate Leisure, those in the know have been waiting patiently for Cheshire based Living Ventures’ new offering.

The Est Est Est chain has been snapped up and Gusto, a new, uber-cool take on the usual Italian establishment has popped up in its place. Newcastle’s Quayside has become a little tired of late and the bars on Gateshead’s Quayside have almost disappeared so it’s a relief to see new developments rejuvenating the area.

Gusto is al fresco dining at it’s best, not an easy thing to do when the daily weather forecast always says rain and clouds. With ozone layer depleting heat lamps and soft cosy Gusto blankets to keep you warm it can be possible to eat outside, enjoy the fresh air and listen to laid back tunes from a live DJ.

Gusto has all the trimmings; nothing is too much of a problem for the staff and the manager at Gusto is a true host; talking to customers, joining a few at their table and making sure everything is ok with your food.

A selection of rustic Italian breads was served on a wooden slab and the manager poured oil and balsamic vinegar, perfect for dipping. The rustico pizza, again served on a wooden slab, complete with your own pizza cutter is made with a fresh, doughy base and couldn’t be further from the perfect pizza circle you’d expect. The Parmesan and aubergine works beautifully with rocket leaves and tomato, although the pizza itself is so huge it’s difficult to finish.

On reflection, the wooden slab was left with a large amount of doughy base - it tasted great but more topping on a smaller base would have been more ideal.

Skipping desert and heading straight for the cocktail menu, you’ll find an extensive list of old favourites and a few new blends and infusions to try. We’d recommend the Musto Gusto, made from muddled red grapes, kiwi fruit, cucumber, elderflower and Belvedere vodka.

Situated in a secluded spot away from the hustle and bustle of the main streets but handy for the many bars and hotels along Newcastle’s Quayside, Gusto is a great reason to start walking down the hill to the river again.

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