I must begin this review by explaining my previous relationship with Greggs.....
Way back in 2006 when I was a mere slip of a lad I set sail to Newcastle Upon Tyne (the home of Greggs) to attend University. Fresh faced and some what 'mothered' I'm not ashamed to admit I had little to no cooking experience. I could just about make a tuna pasta bake and I burnt many a pot trying to make beans on toast. But this is where Greggs stepped in and saved me from a life of eating burnt food. My salvation came in the shape of a steak slice and most of my yearly veg intake came from Greggs seasonal offering 'the festive bake'. So when I heard Greggs was coming to NI I rejoiced. Once again I could burn my tongue on a bacon and cheese turnover and once again the pound in my pocket would be enough to sicken myself on sausage rolls.
Yesterday I made my pilgrimage to the new branch at the Boucher Road Retail Park, although this wasn't quite the corner shop bakery I had so fondly remembered. It almost looked too clean to be a Greggs! This store has outside seating and a comfortable cafe area to sit in, there were rows of baguettes and sandwiches, crispy creme style donuts and of course the holy grail of Greggs, the baked pastry section.
I decided to purchase some sausage rolls but then, as if it were a sign from above, a delightful apron clad staff member appeared from the back of the store clutching steaming Bacon and Cheese turnovers. Before the turnovers were even in the shelf I ordered one. At £1.60 these were more expensive than I had remembered but I considered this a small pittance to pay for the taste of nostalgia.
I also ordered a flat white, something that the hipsters conceived long after I had left Newcastle. Although it was machine made, it actually tasted good, not as bitter as a proper barista made blend but still drinkable.
The queues moved quickly and the staff seemed to be well drilled. I imagine a team of Geordies came over and trained them, I'm sure the lad who served me whispered 'howay' under his breath.
All in all it's as good as I remembered although I'm also happy to report that my life skills have improved considerably and I no longer need Greggs to survive. I will be back from time to time though for a wee treat. read more