This Month's North East Food News You Need to Know
Stay up to date in the world of food
Upstairs Downstairs
If you’re looking for somewhere new to enjoy a glass of wine, look no further than The Place Upstairs in Low Fell. New for 2024 and run by local wine enthusiasts, expect great charcuterie as well as a carefully-curated wine list. Don’t know where to start? The expert team are more than happy to help you find your perfect pairing.
Christmas Starts Here
Living North’s North East Christmas Fair is back at Newcastle Racecourse from 24th–27th October and we’re thrilled to invite you to the biggest and best seasonal shopping event in the North East. Find more than 250 carefully-selected stands, from artisan designer-makers and fashion retailers to homewares, gifts and accessories. As always, our Food Halls will be crammed with all your favourite local producers, and you can watch the region’s top chefs at work in our kitchen. Don’t miss our early-bird discount offer.
BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS
An up-and-coming hub of independent businesses, Mackie’s Corner in Sunderland is making a name for itself in 2024 and its latest addition has got local foodies talking. As well as traybakes, sandwiches and coffee at The Sofia, you’ll find a unique brunch menu packed with homemade options like sweetcorn fritters with guacamole and pico de Gallo, chia seed pudding with mango purée and granola, and bolognese on sourdough with parmesan and chives.
GUESS WHO’S BACK
STACK has sorely been missed in Newcastle city centre since its closure in 2022, but now it’s back and better than ever. Their new venue is right outside St James’ Park and will double as a fan-zone for football fanatics, as well as a hub for local foodies. Open all day, every day, expect a vibrant mix of street food vendors, bars and plenty of live entertainment on the main stage.
TOP OF THE CLASS
Congratulations to Abigail Smith, a student from New College Durham and the North East Young Chef of The Year for 2024, who has just landed herself a job with Michelin-starred chef James Close at Rockliffe Hall as part of his (now-extended) pop-up restaurant Terra. The competition brief was to serve a three-course menu inspired by sustainability and seasonal produce and (despite malfunctioning equipment) Abigail wowed the judges on the day.
Soup for the Soul
When autumn arrives a warm bowl of something delicious always hits the spot
Thai Red Curry Chicken Noodle Soup
A twist on an old favourite, this soup really packs a punch. Don’t worry though – if you’re not a fan of heat this recipe can be adapted easily, and the coconut milk helps to lower the temperature without compromising on taste. This is best garnished with plenty of lime and fresh coriander.
Squash, Lime And Chilli Soup
It might still be too early for pumpkins, but squash is the next best thing and adds a wonderful creaminess to this soup. Inspired by Mexican tortilla soup, this is another recipe with a kick and is the perfect option for a quick midweek meal.
French Onion Soup
It’s a classic for a reason – this soup is so simple to make but has a big pay-off. Don’t be shy when it comes to the seasoning (or butter). The cheesy pastry lid for this soup is certainly a labour of love but is well worth the effort.
