97 & Social Review

August 29, 2015 by Rachel Kershaw in Eating Out 0

When I suggested to my other half that we check out 97 & Social in Jesmond he looked a bit perplexed, he said it sounded like an OAP’s community group! It’s a good job one of us has our finger on the pulse, 97 & Social is actually one of the newest and coolest bar restaurants that Jesmond has to offer!

The venue has a prime location on Osborne Road and it’s owned and operated by the Cairn Group who run a plethora of bars, restaurants and hotels throughout the North East, so they certainly know how to keep customers happy.

There was a warm welcome when we arrived and a personalised reserved sign on our table in the window which I thought was a lovely touch. We both took advantage of happy hour and chose cocktails for just £3.90.

This fantastic offer is available 5 till 7 pm, seven days a week when pints of ale and lager are also on offer for £2 so it’s the perfect place to start your night out. The bar staff were really friendly and prepared the drinks with attention to detail!

The food menu is made up of sharing plates, small plates and large plates and although we opted for large plates, the portions were on the modest side. To be honest, that suited me fine, I can’t do a huge belly busting meal before a night out, it just makes me want a snooze but when James’ fish and chips (£9.20) arrived I knew straight away that he’d be hungry again in a couple of hours, although he did say they were very tasty. The batter had been made with lemonade which gave it a lovely light texture, think I’ll be trying that out next time we make fish and chips at home.

My option of  pork ribs (£7.50) definitely stole the show, they were sweet and sticky, the meat just fell off the bone and there was a bit of a kick to them too which was I enjoyed. I’m also pleased to report that the chips were homemade, it amazes me how many places still serve up frozen chips but not 97 & Social!

It could be said Osborne Road already had enough places to eat and drink before the addition of 97 & Social but I’d argue that every new addition brings more variety and after all, that is the spice of life! So, will I be heading back to 97 & Social? Absolutely!

By Rachel Kershaw