About This Pub
Ah, The Bodega – it's one of those pubs that really captures the heart of Newcastle, isn't it? From what I've gathered, it's got this wonderful old-school charm with its Victorian domes and tiled floors, making you feel like you're in a proper traditional spot for a chat and a drink. The real ales and ciders are spot on, earning it some well-deserved awards, and it's brilliant for catching the game on the big screens or popping in before heading to the football. But, fair warning, it does have its off moments; some folks have had a tough time with the service, especially when it's buzzing, with long waits or staff who seem a tad short-tempered. Still, with an overall rating hovering around 4.4, it's clear most people have a great time, and if you time your visit right, say for a quiet afternoon pint, you'll likely walk away chuffed. All in all, it's worth a go for any pub lover, just keep in mind it might not always be smooth sailing during peak hours.
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The Bodega boasts a fantastic selection of real ales and ciders – it's won awards for that, and you can really taste the quality, making it a treat for any beer enthusiast.
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The historic vibe is spot on, with beautiful Victorian features like stained glass and tiled floors; it's like stepping back in time, perfect for a relaxed catch-up with mates.
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Friendly staff can make your visit memorable, especially if you're lucky enough to get one of the helpful ones who go the extra mile, plus they've got great facilities like big screens for sports and a quiz night.
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It's in a brilliant spot near St James’ Park, ideal for a pre-match pint or after a gig at the Tyne Theatre, and it's open most of the day for convenience.
Cons
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Service can be hit or miss, with some reports of staff seeming overwhelmed or even a bit rude during busy times, like match days, which might leave you waiting longer than you'd like.
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It gets packed quickly, especially in the standing areas, so if you're after a cosy seat, you might struggle, and that can make for a less enjoyable experience overall.
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A few folks have mentioned that since the ownership changed, the consistency of the bar team has dipped, which is a shame for a place with such a rich history.
Contact Information
125 Westgate Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4AG
+441912211552
Pub
Opens at 11:00
Opening Hours
| Monday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Tuesday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Wednesday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday (Today) | 11:00 - 00:00 |
| Saturday | 11:00 - 00:00 |
| Sunday | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Recent Reviews
I love this put and have been going since it opened 20+ years ago .Since it changed ownership , the excellent experienced bar staff have left . Three bar staff there prior to the Chelsea match .They couldn’t cope . I waited 15 mins despite being at the front of the bar . The pub has probably half the customers it had on a match day as you simply can’t get served in a reasonable time .
I really don’t understand why they employ so few staff . The Strawberry is three times as busy , has a bar one third of the size and 12 people serving .please wake up before next season .
Wish could give one star.
Trying new pubs in newcastle that I not been to.
Walked in and bar person walks up and I say just looking what you got, he sighs and walks away, I tell him wow you just sighed and walked away, you not getting my business.
So service is a 0
Rachel was an absolutely lovely host, made us feel so welcome being there, chatting and assisting us to the arena. Edward was very helpful with the ciders, Thankyou so much. We enjoyed our time here and appreciate your help from the pair of you. X
Paulicarus found this open plan pub in the CAMRA 2025 Good Beer Guide. Impressive building with a few booth seats but also a huge standing room only space which must get packed on match days. Super real ale selection plus real cider. ( cider pub of year) Paulicarus took a pint of Jarl blond by Scottish Fyne Ales. 5 TV's for sport, will be packed on Sunday when the Toon Army take on the Scouse Scallies in the Carabao Cup Final. Dart board area tucked away in the far corner. TV's just a bit too loud for me. ( Cheltenham horse racing.)
First time at this pub which I’ve been meaning to get to for a while. Really glad I came here as nice selection of real ciders on offer, the Red Plum by Ascension is so good.
The architecture in this pub is really nice.
This is a real ale and real cider pub
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