Newcastle is one of the most welcoming football cities in the country, and matchday around St James’ Park reflects that.
Away fans are generally admitted into most pubs near the ground, provided behaviour is respectful, and the city centre location means you’re never far from quality food, drinks and atmosphere.
FootballGroundGuide takes a look at the best food and drink options near St James' Park so you don't have to:
Best Pubs Near St James' Park
Few stadium bars are as famous as Shearer’s Bar, located within the ground itself. It’s busy, lively and steeped in Newcastle United culture, yet still welcoming to away supporters on most matchdays.
Just across the road, The Strawberry is an iconic Newcastle pub packed with retro memorabilia. It’s traditionally a home-fan favourite but can often allow away fans, especially for early kick-offs.
For something slightly quieter but still central, The Five Swans offers old English charm and a relaxed pre-match pint only minutes from the stadium.
Away fans looking for alternatives near the train station often head to The Head of Steam or The Newcastle Tap, both solid options with good beer selections.
Classic Matchday Food Spots Close to St James' Park
A stone’s throw from the stadium, STACK is one of the best matchday stops if heading to watch a game. Built from shipping containers, it features global street food vendors and themed bars, making it ideal before or after the game.
Chinatown is also right on the stadium’s doorstep, marked by its impressive archway. It's impossible to miss.
All-you-can-eat favourites like Landmark and Nudo Noodle House are popular with families and groups looking for filling, affordable food.
Restaurants and Cafes Near St James' Park
For something packed with flavour, Chilli Padi sits right beside the stadium and is widely regarded as one of the city’s best casual dining spots.
Groups often favour El Coto, a short walk away and ideal for sharing tapas and paella, or Red Mezze, known for its generous mezze platters.
If you’re happy to wander a little further, then HanaHana offers a full teppanyaki experience with chefs cooking at your table, Turtle Bay offers cocktails, music and a lively pre- or post-match vibe.
Quick Fast Food Options By St James' Park
If you want something familiar and fast, Five Guys is around a ten-minute walk away and reliably filling.
You’ll also find McDonald’s, KFC, Burger King, and Subway dotted around Northumberland Street and Grainger Street.
Without forgetting to mention Greggs, which is seemingly on every corner in Newcastle.
FGG Verdict: Where Should You Go?
For atmosphere and typical matchday experience, Shearer’s Bar or The Strawberry are hard to beat.
STACK is perfect if you want something close yet offers variety and energy, while Chinatown offers excellent value just a few minutes' walk from St James' Park.
Whether you’re a Magpies fan or part of the away support, the city-centre setting ensures one of the easiest and most enjoyable matchday food and drink experiences in the country.