Baba Yaga's House in North Shields

Ah, Baba Yaga's House – what a gem of a spot in Whitley Bay! From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, this place really nails the whole pub experience with its top-notch cocktails that folks can't stop raving about; imagine sipping on a Black Forest Margarita that's as inventive as it is tasty. The staff are just lovely, always up for a chat and making sure you're looked after, which adds such a welcoming touch to the evening. Plus, it's got this eclectic feel with art exhibitions on display, and don't even get me started on the food – those grazing boards and little dishes like arancini seem to hit the spot every time, and it's even dog-friendly, which is brilliant for us who like to bring the pup along. On the flip side, it does get packed on busier nights, so you might have to queue for a drink, and the website's a bit of a faff with some errors, making it harder to plan ahead. Oh, and with it only being open six days a week, you'll want to check the times to make sure you're not caught out. All in all, it's a fantastic choice for a relaxed catch-up with mates, offering that perfect mix of good vibes and a few quirks that keep things real.