The Umbrian - Newcastle

This is a lovely looking cafe with an elegant fit-out in black and exposed brick. The menu is minimalistic and features home-made piadinas (flat bread) in various ways. I tried the Egg on the Run and was a little sceptical as I'm a big brekkie kind of girl. OMGoodness - I fantasised about it for the rest of the day. Seriously, it was so good that I came back the next day for another. My combination of fresh flat bread, egg and zucchini tasted great and was very filling. Just make sure you order the egg well done or you could end up a yolky mess like I did. I also tried the Cannoli filled with ricotta and zest, which was yum (but people, really, this is not a breakfast option). The coffee is great and prices very reasonable. Service is fast and friendly. Its not a large cafe, but there was more than enough seating for those who wanted it and what appeared to be a steady stream of regulars. This cafe is niche marketing at its best - it knows what it wants to do and does it very well, rather than trying to compete with the other cafes in the area. I'd definitely return.

A slice of Italian paradise in Newcastle - thank God! I came here with my husband and mother-in-law who are both from Italy, they absolutely loved it and have been back since. We tried the piadina which were made fresh and hot, with good quality cheese and fresh ingredients. We also had coffee and a slice of the ricotta cake. And the cannoli. And i would like to come back and eat them all again, and again, and again.The service is the best around, oozing warmth and generosity, and the cafe itself is inviting and interesting. 10/10!

From the day I noticed the exposed brick wall and the elegant yet earthy polished cement bench I knew this place would be something special. Yes, there maybe other places with several staff in front of house and several behind the scenes, but Olivia with her Newtownish vibe and welcoming embrace are something that can't be purchased like a franchise that rots the soul.I had the pleasure of having her delicious hand-made piadine (flat bread) with yummy pickles on the side. Followed quickly by a wonderful ricotta cake that, traditionally, is as close as you can get if not better. Right now, I'm not the best judge of coffee as I drink decaf, but the long black decaf I had was very enjoyable.This place is all that Newcastle is and all that it SHOULD be. Thank god for people like Olivia who wear their heart on their sleeve and give it a go - a true Italian and a true Australian.##Note: I read the review from an Italian lady and I couldn't agree with her less. I think she has a bug up her bottom and is taking it out on The Umbrian. I am also, Italian/Australian, and very proud of what has been done here.

This newcomer is definitely stiff competition for the Darby St cafés. Their own roast blend was strung but super smooth and the ricotta cake absolutely the best I have ever eaten. Cheerful smiling service- we will be back often.

I'm yet to try the food but this cafe has become my new regular for coffee! Always delicious, and wonderful service. Also a good loyalty program - every 8th coffee free.