I ate at Chaophraya’s roof terrace under the gaze of Charles Grey and it’s one of the city’s best summer spots

The sun brought many a Geordie out into Newcastle last weekend with bars and restaurants full of locals wanting some food and a drink in the Tyneside sun.

The city is blessed with countless watering holes and food stops that offer outdoor terraces and spaces, more so than ever after a boom in outdoor hospitality during Covid-19.

One lesser-known roof terrace is that of Chaophraya in Eldon Square.

The urban oasis sits under the watchful eyes of Charles Grey on top of Monument and is tucked away at the top of the shopping centre.

NewcastleWorld took a trip to the outdoor dining experience on Friday night to experience the hidden roof terrace for ourselves.

Entering Chaophraya in Eldon Square, you wouldn't think that such an outdoor space would be around the corner - the vast majority of the centre's restaurant spaces are inside.

Yet, as you climb the Chaophraya stairs and turn the corner, guests are transported from Eldon Square to an authentic Thai wonderland.

Those who have booked to sit on the terrace are walked through the restaurant and onto the space at the far end.

The terrace is bathed in natural light and shrubbery completes its urban oasis design.

It's built for all-weather too. As NewcastleWorld arrives, the roof is closed to protect diners from the winds whipping overhead but halfway through the experience it's wound up to let the sunlight over the terrace in full force.

As well as comfortable tables and sofas for eating and drinking, through a glass panel is a balcony providing the perfect photo opportunity with Grey's Monument behind, or an ideal chance for any nosy people watchers.

The Chaophraya terrace isn't all about the views and posing for photos though, the Thai restaurant prides itself on an authentic culinary experience.

NewcastleWorld tests some artistically-presented dumplings and broken down chicken satay to start.

A fiery Thai green curry puts us through our paces and a tasty pad Thai proves a more cautious choice after that.

Food is served quickly despite a busy restaurant and staff are attentive - the doting Quincey making the experience.

Well stuffed and with no space for dessert, NewcastleWorld is about to head before the charming Quincey insists we can't leave without trying the new dessert menu.

Minutes later, we've ordered a coconut creme brulee, which is a highlight of the experience and the perfect light sweet treat to finish off an summer evening on the Chaophraya terrace.