Rustic Cup - Whitley Bay

However, things took a turn when the owner began expressing his belief that Covid is a hoax during a period of pandemic-related closures. After some time, we returned, this time with friends, and the experience was quite awkward. We found ourselves having to repeatedly ask whether certain menu items were suitable for vegans, as there was a lack of clarity in the menu. We often received conflicting information from the staff regarding vegan options, and on several occasions, items we were previously told were vegan turned out to contain dairy. Although we were certain that these oversights were unintentional, multiple mistakes made our trust in their claims falter. It felt as though we were being viewed as an inconvenience. At one point, a staff member awkwardly conveyed a message from the kitchen suggesting we shouldn’t expect vegan accommodations on future visits, countering our intention to seek clarity about what was suitable. I felt conflicted about staying, and if I had been alone, I would have likely left. The owner comes across as somewhat rude and detached from customers. It would greatly benefit the café if staff members were better trained on the menu and how to run the place. While Rustic Cup has a lovely atmosphere, we often felt unwelcome. I would also be concerned about dining there if I had allergies, as the staff's knowledge seemed lacking and their demeanor frustrating. Overall, beneath the appealing surface, there was a sense of dissatisfaction for those simply wanting to know whether their food or drink contained milk. It was an unnecessarily uncomfortable experience.

The restaurant offered several vegan options, including a delicious plant-based breakfast and tasty vegan red velvet cakes. There were plenty of other choices as well, and the café itself is quite comfortable and cozy. Its location on the main road in Whitley Bay adds to the convenience. The staff were also very pleasant. Updated from a previous review on February 3, 2022.

I was very impressed by this café. As soon as I opened the door, the friendly staff welcomed me, and I could immediately sense the positive vibe and atmosphere. During my visit, I ordered a piece of chocolate cake and an almond and granola flapjack to take away. The chocolate cake was divine—definitely one of the best I've had in a long time. The flapjack was also delicious. It's definitely worth a visit if you're in the area!

Great venue, beautiful atmosphere, friendly staff, wonderful food, many vegan options, some really different dishes and pages, such as Firecracker Broccoli, Chili Beets. Many of the non vegan dishes can be made vegan, e.g. Greek salad package. Only used vegan Mayo to avoid any confusion. See [here link] for Brunch menu. See [here link] for the dinner menu. Also a number of daily cake options, all marked clearly. Chief very knowledgeable. Would recommend.

I visited the Rustic Cup for the first time recently and opted for the avocado on toast because I wanted something healthy. It was delicious! The coffee had a rich flavor as well. Additionally, the staff member who welcomed me was extremely helpful and friendly.