Raval Gateshead: The restaurant praised by Boyzlife and Tony Hadley

Raval Gateshead: The restaurant praised by Boyzlife and Tony Hadley

Raval Indian Brasserie & Bar, located near the Tyne Bridge in Gateshead, recently played host to Boyzlife stars Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden, as well as 80s music legend Tony Hadley dropping in previously.

The restaurant, which has been making waves in the UK fine-dining scene, was the chosen venue for both acts ahead of their performances at the Glasshouse International Music Centre.

Boyzlife stars Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden (Image: RAVAL) Duffy and McFadden, former boyband rivals turned supergroup co-stars, tucked into a curry at Raval before their sell-out show, mingling with fellow diners and posing for photos.

Praising the food, Duffy described it as "some of the best Indian food I've had in a long time."

Former Spandau Ballet frontman Tony Hadley has also dropped in for a meal before his own gig at the Glasshouse, surprising staff and diners alike.

Restaurant manager Nas Islam said at the time: “We are honoured to have hosted Tony Hadley. His discerning palate and genuine appreciation for fine dining further cement Raval’s position as a culinary landmark in Newcastle Gateshead.”

80s music legend Tony Hadley (Image: RAVAL) Raval has been collecting accolades to match its growing star appeal.

The restaurant was recently named the UK’s Best Indian Fine Dining Restaurant outside London at the prestigious 2024 Asian Curry Awards, also known as the Curry Oscars.’

It also topped the British Indian Good Food Guide’s list of Best Indian Restaurants outside London.

Competing against Michelin-starred venues such as Benares in Mayfair and Amaya in Knightsbridge, Raval’s win highlights Newcastle Gateshead’s thriving food scene and its growing reputation as a fine-dining destination.

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The restaurant’s commitment to blending authentic Indian flavours with modern British influences has made it a favourite among food critics and diners alike.

With its exclusive seven-course tasting menu and signature dishes like Lobster & Mango and Darjeeling Lamb Cutlets, Raval continues to redefine Indian fine dining in the region.

And with high-profile visitors flocking through its doors, it’s clear that this North East gem is firmly on the map for both locals and celebrities alike.