Food has the power to connect people, cultures, and stories. Every city has that one place that becomes a talking point among food lovers, not just for what is served on the plate but for the overall experience that surrounds it. In Newcastle upon Tyne, that place is Birria Bella. Known for its mouth-watering birria tacos and an atmosphere that brings Mexican street food culture to life, Birria Bella has quickly established itself as more than just another restaurant. It is a culinary journey, a taste of Mexico in the heart of Jesmond, where traditional recipes meet modern creativity.
What is Birria?
Before delving into Birria Bella itself, it is worth understanding the magic of birria. Originating from the Mexican state of Jalisco, birria is a slow-cooked meat dish, traditionally made with goat or beef. The meat is marinated in a blend of spices and chillies, then braised until it reaches a tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture. What makes birria so distinctive is not just the meat itself but the rich consommé that accompanies it. This broth, full of the same spices and flavour from the slow braising, is often served alongside the dish for dipping.
In recent years, birria has gained international fame, particularly in the form of birria tacos. Tortillas dipped in consommé, stuffed with birria meat, and then grilled to perfection, have become a global food trend. Birria Bella taps into this tradition but does so with its own flair.
The Birth of Birria Bella
Birria Bella did not start as a large restaurant but rather as a small operation with big ambitions. What began as a food truck in Newcastle soon captured the attention of locals. The combination of authentic recipes, generous portions, and the excitement of something new created an instant buzz. It was not long before the team behind Birria Bella realised they had something much bigger on their hands.
Expanding into Jesmond, one of Newcastle’s trendiest neighbourhoods, was the natural next step. The restaurant quickly became a hub for students, young professionals, and families looking for a unique dining experience. Today, Birria Bella stands as one of the most recognisable names in Newcastle’s growing food scene.
The Menu at Birria Bella
The heart of Birria Bella’s success lies in its carefully curated menu. While birria tacos are the star attraction, the offerings extend far beyond.
Birria Tacos
The signature dish, birria tacos, are served with soft tortillas loaded with slow-cooked beef and cheese. The tortillas are often crisped up after being dipped in consommé, resulting in a rich, slightly smoky flavour. Served with the signature broth for dipping, they create an experience unlike any other.
Birria Fries and Nachos
Taking inspiration from Mexican street food culture, Birria Bella also serves birria-loaded fries and nachos. These dishes combine the indulgence of comfort food with the complexity of Mexican spices, offering an option for those who want something shareable or simply more substantial.
Burritos and Bowls
For customers who prefer handheld meals or lighter options, Birria Bella has burritos and rice bowls. These are filled with birria meat, beans, rice, guacamole, and fresh salsa. Vegan and vegetarian versions are also available, demonstrating the restaurant’s inclusivity.
Coffee and Extras
Birria Bella is more than a taco shop; it also functions as a coffee lounge. The space invites customers to relax, enjoy high-quality coffee, and pair their drink with light bites. This mix of casual dining and café culture makes it appealing not only at meal times but throughout the day.
Atmosphere and Experience
The environment at Birria Bella reflects both tradition and modernity. The décor pays homage to Mexican culture, often with vibrant colours, rustic details, and street-inspired artwork. At the same time, the seating and layout feel welcoming for families, groups of friends, or individuals looking for a quiet meal.
One of the strongest aspects of Birria Bella is its community feel. It is not unusual to find the restaurant buzzing with conversation, laughter, and the sound of sizzling grills. Staff are often praised for their friendliness and passion for the food they serve, making the dining experience personal and memorable.
Why Birria Bella Stands Out in Newcastle
Newcastle has always had a thriving food culture, from traditional pubs to modern dining spaces. However, Birria Bella stands out because it brings something fresh and authentic to the table.
- Authenticity: The recipes remain close to Mexican tradition, ensuring that customers taste the real essence of birria.
- Creativity: While staying authentic, Birria Bella experiments with presentation and combinations, offering dishes like birria fries that appeal to a wide audience.
- Accessibility: The price point is considered fair, making it accessible for students and professionals alike.
- Variety: With options for meat lovers, vegetarians, and vegans, the menu caters to diverse dietary needs.
The Social Media Buzz
Part of Birria Bella’s popularity has been driven by social media. Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are filled with photos and videos of dripping birria tacos, cheesy nachos, and enthusiastic diners describing their meals as “life-changing.” Word of mouth, combined with visual appeal, has made Birria Bella a must-visit for foodies not just in Newcastle but across the UK.
Influencers and food bloggers often feature Birria Bella in their content, praising the balance between authenticity and innovation. This visibility has helped the restaurant grow its customer base quickly and consistently.
Birria Bella and the Local Community
Jesmond has long been known as a lively neighbourhood, full of restaurants, cafés, and pubs. Birria Bella contributes to this energy but also stands as a community-focused establishment. By sourcing local ingredients whenever possible and creating a space that feels inclusive, it supports not only customers but also local suppliers and producers.
Events and collaborations with other businesses occasionally feature on the calendar, further embedding Birria Bella into the community fabric of Newcastle.
Customer Reviews
No restaurant can grow without feedback, and Birria Bella has received glowing reviews across different platforms. Customers consistently mention:
- The richness of the consommé.
- The tenderness of the meat, often described as “falling apart with every bite.”
- The value for money, given the portion sizes and quality.
- The friendly service, which makes people want to return.
While there are always minor criticisms, such as waiting times during busy periods, the overwhelming sentiment is positive.
Future of Birria Bella
With its rapid success, it is reasonable to ask what the future holds for Birria Bella. Many believe the brand has the potential to expand beyond Newcastle, either through additional outlets or collaborations. Its balance of authenticity, creativity, and social media appeal provides a strong foundation for growth.
There is also the possibility of menu expansion, with more vegetarian options or seasonal specials. However, most loyal customers hope that the heart of the restaurant—its birria tacos and consommé—remains unchanged.
Why Birria Bella Deserves Recognition
The story of Birria Bella is more than just about food. It is about bringing a cultural tradition from Mexico to the UK and presenting it in a way that resonates with local audiences. It demonstrates how global food trends can find a place in local communities, creating a space where authenticity is celebrated and creativity is embraced.
For Newcastle residents and visitors, Birria Bella is not just another restaurant. It is a destination, a reminder that food is as much about stories, culture, and community as it is about flavour.
Conclusion
Birria Bella is proof that when passion meets tradition, the result can be extraordinary. From its humble beginnings as a food truck to its current status as one of Newcastle’s most talked-about eateries, it represents the very best of modern dining: authentic, creative, inclusive, and memorable. Whether you are a taco enthusiast, a lover of rich flavours, or simply curious about trying something new, Birria Bella promises an experience worth savouring.
In a city already rich in dining choices, it has carved out its own identity, and if the current momentum continues, Birria Bella will not only remain a favourite in Newcastle but may well inspire similar ventures across the UK.
