Conveyor belt cheese and comfort food

There’s never a dull moment on the North East food scene, and lately I’ve been checking out everything from exciting new openings to countryside pubs worth travelling for.

If there’s one place the North East is talking about it’s Blacks Corner’s new venue. The independent North East favourite has opened its latest location inside Sunderland’s Culture House at Keel Square, bringing something a little different to the city, with cheese and charcuterie on a conveyor belt. Beyond the conveyor belt, the menu offers breakfast dishes, small plates and sharing boards. I’ve always loved Blacks Corner’s commitment to championing independent British producers, and it’s fantastic to see a local business keep growing.

Newcastle’s food scene has welcomed another exciting independent opening, with Jungli on Hood Street. From the team behind Jesmond favourite Chakh Dhoom, Jungli brings Indian-inspired food, cocktails and a colourful, lively atmosphere. We sampled a selection of their signature cocktails and authentic Indian dishes, but their fusion menu is something very different. Everything from spaghetti masala to butter tikka chicken pie. What makes Jungli particularly interesting is that it’s more than somewhere to grab dinner. Coffee during the day, cocktails in the evening, and music adding to the atmosphere.

Sometimes, though, you can’t beat finding a good country pub. Hadrian’s Hotel, tucked away in the pretty Northumberland village of Wall, is well worth knowing about. Previously home to Michelin-starred restaurant Hjem, it has since entered a new chapter, combining traditional pub dining with a more refined restaurant experience. We recently visited for the pub food and opted for two classics: steak and fish and chips. Both were generous portions and delicious. The hotel is also home to Willow, a restaurant with a more elevated dining experience. Whether you’re heading out for a walk along Hadrian’s Wall, exploring the surrounding villages or simply fancy a drive into the countryside for some good food, Hadrian’s Hotel is a lovely spot to add to your list.