The Riverside in North Shields

Ah, The Riverside – it's one of those unassuming spots in South Shields that can really make for a pleasant afternoon or evening out. From what I've gathered from the chatter, the staff are an absolute delight, always cheerful and quick to sort you out, even if it's busy. The food often steals the show when it's good, with hearty options like roasts and specials coming out piping hot and nicely presented, paired with a great choice of drinks to wash it all down. And let's not forget the buzzing atmosphere; it's got that warm, lively energy with live music and sports on the screens, making it ideal for a relaxed get-together. On the flip side, though, it's not all smooth sailing – there are tales of the kitchen running out of things or dishing up meals that don't quite hit the mark, and some waits can drag on a bit, which might leave you a tad frustrated. All in all, it's a solid choice if you're after a friendly pub experience, but it'd be wise to keep expectations in check for those off days; still, the positives generally outweigh the niggles, so I'd say give it a go if you're nearby.