Event to boost restaurants
RESTAURATEURS are delighted about the return of a city-wide event designed to both boost business and treat diners to seven days of special menus and cut-price offers.
The return of NE1 Newcastle Restaurant Week after a two-year-absence was announced on Thursday and its comeback is welcome news for restaurant owners and customers alike.
Among those taking part in the city’s dining scene showcase are top restaurants Blackfriars and Dobson & Parnell.
For owner Andy Hook, who had taken part in the annual event every year before its cancellation due to the pandemic, its return is a positive sign for the new year.
Andy, who with wife Sam recently celebrated the 20-year anniversary of Blackfriars, said: “It’s amazing how much things can change in 12 months. This time last year we had the hatches battened down with little prospect of reopening.
“But re-open we did and we have been eternally grateful for all those who turned out to support us and keep us afloat.”
He added: “We hope 2022 brings us all better fortune and what better way to start than with the great gastronomic giveaway we call NE1 Restaurant Week - time to grab yourself a culinary bargain!”
Organiser NE1 is “beyond excited” for the return of one of its most popular events. Its head of marketing and events, Ben Whitfield, said the restaurant scene is bouncing back with several new venues opening, some of which will be offering special deals in what will be the 20th Restaurant Week.
Among these is Khai Khai, which opened on Newcastle Quayside in 2020 and last year won the title of UK’s Best Innovative Restaurant Concept at the British Curry Awards.
Its owner Jaf Ali, who also owns Dabbawal, said: “We’re looking forward to getting back into the busy, vibrant celebration of Newcastle food.
“Coming out of the festive period is traditionally very quiet in the restaurant business but over the years NE1 has got the timing right with Restaurant Week and it delivers an important boost to business in January.”
He added: “Here’s to another successful week of great food across the city.”