But where’s the best place to eat? We’ve rounded up the current runners and riders according to Google reviews, with those listed achieving 4.8 or above, including those with a perfect score of 5.0 which is the highest rating on that platform.
13. Spent Grain, John Street, 4.8
A popular city centre spot, particularly for its Sunday dinners, Spent Grain has a rating of 4.8 from 200 reviews. One diner wrote: "Been to the Spent Grain a few times already, one of the best roasts I had. Great service and food is delicious, one of my favourite restaurants in Sunderland. Highly recommend it!" | Sunderland Echo
14. Miso House, High Street West, 4.8
New to the city after opening in April, but Miso House, which specialises in Japanese food, already has a rating of 4.8 from 150 reviews. One said: "Amazing food for great price, the staff were very prompt and friendly and the restaurant had a very cosy feel to it. Loved it so much! Can't wait to come back and try more." | Sunderland Echo
15. RIO, Low Row, 4.8
With its eat all you can meats, steakhouse RIO is very popular with close to 400 reviews. One said: "Went on a sunday when they had a £10 off per person deal on. Service is great and great location. Been to the Quayside and Jesmond branch a few times but I definitely thing the Sunderland branch is the best one." | Sunderland Echo
16. Pho 179, Waterloo Place, 4.8
Vietnamese restaurant Pho 179 impresses with its fresh flavours, with a score of 4.8 from nearly 500 reviews. One diner said:" The food is the real star: deeply flavourful, comforting, and clearly made with care. The special pho is outstanding—rich, aromatic broth that tastes like it’s been simmering all day, tender meat, and perfectly cooked noodles. Service is friendly and efficient, prices are more than fair for the quality and portion sizes, and the atmosphere makes it easy to linger. Truly a neighbourhood gem." | Sunderland Echo